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Most of us have, at one time or another, been thinking about getting a robot vacuum. They are, after all, super convenient — set them up to clean while you’re at work or running errands, and come home to spotless floors. No more lugging around a heavy vacuum cleaner!
But before you hit the “buy” button on that robot vacuum, you must consider the privacy and data risks associated with these devices. After all, they are equipped with sensors and cameras and connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network. That means they have the potential to collect a lot of data about you and your family.
Early this month, August 2022, Amazon decided to acquire one of the world’s top smart vacuum companies, iRobot, for US$1.7bn. The purchase is Amazon’s latest effort to expand its autonomous-robot repertoire. However, many see it as a threat as it may lead to privacy and data invasion concerns.
Many experts in the data and privacy sectors, including David Vaile from the Australian Privacy Foundation, are concerned that these robot vacuums can be a way for Amazon to access private home spaces.
“They’re about collecting data, and the products and services are just baiting to lure and hopefully lock in unsuspecting data subject,” Vaile said.
The acquisition of iRobot demonstrated how Amazon continues to evolve in today’s very competitive tech market. However, this can also mean providing fear and anxiety to buyers.
According to Reuters, the company reassured that they prioritized their buyers’ safety against privacy and data risk. They will release more details about the uses of data collected by the existing and future iRobot models. And this can be a big help in assessing whether or not to buy the product.
Amazon used data gathered from its smart devices to improve its marketing strategies. But at the same time, they may also promote unwanted scenarios such as iRobots recording private conversations, taking confidential photos or videos, and providing details to unauthorized personnel, which can lead to hacking.
“You can’t have your cake and eat it too,” said Justin Kern from JFK Automation.
While the technology industry has been buzzing about the several advantages of utilizing smart vacuum cleaners at home, the reality is that in the end, if you’ve already given up your privacy for the sake of convenience, perhaps this is the price you’ve been willing to pay to enjoy an easier life.
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