Rossen Reports: Are “Smart” Toys on Your Holiday Shopping List?

I recently joined Jeff Rossen on Rossen Reports to discuss a critical topic as we kick off the holiday shopping season: the rise of AI-enabled toys and the hidden risks they pose to our families.

While interactive toys are impressive, connecting them to the internet brings the same vulnerabilities as any other IoT device, but often with less oversight.

Key Privacy & Security Concerns We Discussed:

Data Collection: Many AI toys record conversations and collect behavioral data to “learn” and interact. Where is that data stored, and who has access to it?

Always-On Microphones: To function, some toys need to be constantly listening for wake words, raising significant privacy red flags in the home.

Weak Security Standards: Unlike mature tech products, toys often lack robust encryption or regular firmware updates, making them easier targets for hackers to access cameras or microphones.

The Takeaway: Treat smart toys like any other computer. Change default passwords, turn them off when not in use, and read the privacy policy before you buy.

Check out the full segment below! 👇

 

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