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Gift Your Family Gadgets That Don’t Spy on Them
Think twice before you buy someone an internet-connected gift
The wrapping paper flies into the air, twisting and turning as it falls back to the ground. One after another, perfectly parceled presents are ripped open in seconds. Excitement explodes as each gift is revealed.
Finally, the item you (or Santa) stashed under the tree is pulled out to join the frenzy. As your present is revealed, you explain what it is to the overjoyed recipient.
“This year, I bought you a device that can play music via voice control. Pretty cool, right? It may also spy on you and listen to your conversations without your permission.”
The mood somewhat darkens. It doesn’t seem very Christmassy anymore. Maybe this should be one of those gifts that’s best left in its box and tucked away in the cupboard under the stairs for all eternity.
In the modern age of technology, and more specifically, the internet of things, the thought really does count. We have to give some serious consideration to how these products might violate our privacy.
With internet connectivity comes privacy concerns, stories of government and company spying, and unsolicited collection of data. And you don’t want to be the one guilty of bringing that…
