his extensive data collection reflects risks to user privacy and can be exploited for targeted advertising or, if mishandled, for malicious purposes

As the Smart home devices are gaining momentum everywhere, it was said that more than 780 million users might purchase and use these devices by 2028. Apart from the benefits of these devices, there are concerns about the privacy issues which leads to security violation and scamming, according to the reports.

Now, a new study conducted by Surfshark’s research hub, the Smart Home Privacy Checker, discloses that one in ten smart home apps or devices collects data for tracking purposes, with Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home being the most data-peckish devices.

This extensive data collection reflects risks to user privacy and can be exploited for targeted advertising or, if mishandled, for malicious purposes. The study found that Amazon’s Alexa app collects 28 out of 32 possible data points, more than three times the average of other smart home devices, with Google Home collecting 22 data points. All collected data is linked to individual user profiles, including precise location, contact information, and health-related data.

Users often pay twice for their smart devices: once with their money and again with their data. These apps may track users to show targeted ads or share information with third parties and data brokers. At least one-third of the apps focus on collecting data points like device ID, email address, and product interactions, with some even tracking locations as well.

Also, read| Google Launches Gemini Mobile App In India; Now Available In 9 Languages

Outdoor security cameras are particularly data-hungry, collecting 12 data points on average, 50 per cent more than other devices. Apps like Deep Sentinel and Lorex contribute to this high data collection. The study also found that 12 out of the 290 analysed apps have not updated their data collection practices in over a year, raising concerns about transparency and compliance with privacy laws.

“In today’s world, where convenience often come through privacy, our research highlights a worrying trend in smartphone device apps, especially from major companies like Amazon, and Google. This serious issue goes beyond mere data collection, it invades into users’ lives, potentially leading to data larceny and the uncontrolled sharing of personal information.” Goda Sukachaite, privacy counsel at Surfshark, said.

Also, read| No Washroom Or Water Intervals Until Target Met – Workers Take Oath At Amazon Warehouse: Report

Amazon‘s Alexa app emerged as a significant data aggregator, seizing 28 out of 32 possible data points which is more than triple the industry average for smart home devices. This includes data location, contact details even health related information carefully linked to individual user profiles. Similarly, Google’s suite of smart phone devices was found to cumulate 22 out of 32 data points. It surmounted industry norms with extensive data collection ranging from addresses and locations to photos, videos, audio and history browsing.

Sukackaite warns users to take measures managing user privacy, reviewing app permissions and staying informed about the policies governing meticulously their smart home devices to ensure that data are safe and secure.