How to Protect Our Data from Smart Speakers

“Hey, Alexa what is the temperature today?” Well, asking Alexa everything is fun and time-saving. But, on the other side of the coin, did you ever thought about where is this data going? Or Is your data safe or not?

A recent study from CNBC states that a family in Portland says that their private conversation was recorded in Amazon Echo and was sent to one of their colleagues.

Looking at this report, I’m afraid to ask this to myself “Are we still safe in the world on the Internet?” Well, after reading this I doubt it. On this issue, Amazon replies that it was an unexpected issue from Alexa. They also stated that they take “user privacy” very seriously and what just happened is an extremely rare incident.

Technology is moving forward at a breakneck pace and giving us all the possible benefits. But what is the use of such technology where all your data points are volatile and open in front of the whole world? In fact, some big Fortune 500 companies have collected a lot of data in the past years which if they intend to can use to ruin your privacy completely.

Not only Alexa, Google Home, Mini, and other smart assistants are no exception. In today’s time, if you are connected to the Internet, I can say all your privacy is gone forever.

Moreover, these Alexa compatible smart home devices are susceptible to hacking. No doubt all your data is stored inside of your smart assistant. But, what if someone hacks your device and steal all your private conversations that was silently heard by your smart assistants.

What is Amazon’s Intend to Collect all the Data?

Well, if you notice there is a pattern going behind all the Amazon products or services made to date. “Amazon is trying to sell you more.”

Confused?

Let me explain:

• When you buy Amazon Kindle, you now buy digital ebooks from Amazon store instead of buying the hardcover copies.

• You are paying for faster delivery and media content via Amazon Prime every year (recurring).

• Same is the case with Alexa smart assistants; they want you to order more products from their store with the help of voice commands.

How to Prevent Your Data From Smart Assistants?

The best way to keep safe your data is to cut slash the usage of these smart assistants. Well, if you cannot do that the best you can do is only use it when required and unplug it when not needed.

Here are a few workarounds to help keep your data safe:

#1. Delete History

Deleting your history from the smart assistant is one of the best ways to keep safe your privacy. Do note that, your assistant might not give you personalized suggestions after deleting the history, but that is acceptable when your privacy is at cost.

#2. Watch The Lights

Keep an eye on the LED lights of your smart home assistant devices. If your assistant's light color change it means its recording all the audio. Immediately command your assistant to stop.

#3. Mute The Device

One of the legit ways to stop the assistants to track your data is by muting the device. This will prevent Alexa, or Google Assistant to record any audio whatsoever. However, this also means that you need to manually turn it on every time you want the help of your assistant.

#4. Opt-Out

Did you know that you can restrict Google to collect all your important data? Well, yes you can. Go to Settings in your Google account and prevent to Google share all your data to other third party vendors.

Final Verdict:

Companies like Google, Amazon, and Facebook are smart enough. They give mouthwatering services for free, and in return, they collect all your data. This includes the demographics, whom you talk to, what are your interests. Well, all these are done to increase their businesses.

Google and Facebook are showing you ads of the things you like. Alexa is trying to make you buy more from Amazon. I hope you can see a common pattern all these tech companies are using for their own benefits.