Is your air fryer spying on you? Concerns over ‘excessive’ surveillance in smart devices - The Guardian

In recent years, the popularity of smart devices has grown exponentially, with many households now owning an array of gadgets that are connected to the internet. While these devices offer a range of benefits, such as convenience and energy efficiency, there is growing concern over the amount of data they collect and how it is used. One particular device that has raised eyebrows is the air fryer, with some consumers worrying that their appliance may be spying on them.

The air fryer, a popular kitchen gadget that uses hot air to cook food without oil, has become a staple in many homes. However, some models come equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and other advanced features that have raised concerns over privacy. Many consumers are unaware of the data that these devices collect, or how it is used, leading to fears that their personal information may be compromised.

The concern over air fryer surveillance is not unfounded. In 2019, a study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that many smart devices, including air fryers, were collecting far more data than necessary. The study revealed that some devices were even collecting data when they were not in use, leading to concerns over excessive surveillance.

Furthermore, there have been instances where companies have used data collected from their smart devices for targeted advertising. In 2018, it was discovered that a company called Vizio was collecting data from its smart TVs and selling it to third-party advertisers. While this practice is not necessarily illegal, it raises questions over the ethics of such data collection and how it is used without consumers’ knowledge or consent.

Another concern is the security of the data collected by smart devices. In recent years, there have been numerous instances of hacking and data breaches, where sensitive information has been stolen from companies and individuals. With smart devices collecting an increasing amount of data, there is a growing risk that this data could fall into the wrong hands.

So, what can consumers do to protect their privacy when using smart devices like air fryers? Firstly, it’s essential to read the terms and conditions of any device before purchasing it. Many companies will outline their data collection policies in the fine print, so it’s crucial to understand what data is being collected and how it will be used.

Secondly, consumers should consider disabling Wi-Fi connectivity on their air fryer when not in use. While this may limit some of the device’s features, it will help to prevent unnecessary data collection. Additionally, consumers can also opt for devices that have end-to-end encryption, which ensures that any data collected is protected from third-party access.

Lastly, consumers should be aware of the privacy settings on their air fryer and other smart devices. Many devices allow users to adjust their privacy settings, limiting the amount of data that is collected. By taking the time to understand these settings and adjust them accordingly, consumers can help protect their personal information.

In conclusion, while the concern over air fryer surveillance may seem excessive to some, it’s essential for consumers to be aware of the data collection practices of smart devices. By taking steps to protect their privacy, consumers can ensure that their personal information remains secure and that they are not unwittingly surrendering their data to companies or hackers. As the use of smart devices continues to grow, it’s crucial that consumers remain vigilant and demand greater transparency from companies regarding their data collection practices.