“Illegal espionage devices” – these gadgets can endanger the privacy of their users
Caution lens! For example, if someone can be observed unnoticed via a broadcast-capable gadget, the device is illegal
Source: dpa-tmn / Jan-Philipp Strobel
More and more electronic devices are networked and equipped with cameras or microphones. Users should therefore take a closer look before operation. Such gadgets may even pose a risk and are therefore illegal.
THERemote-controlled car, smartwatch or vacuum robot: As soon as toys or devices are networked and equipped with a camera or microphone, they encroach on the privacy of their users or those in the vicinity. That is why you should read the product descriptions and data protection regulations carefully before buying such gadgets, advises the Federal Network Agency.
A device may even be illegal – for example, if conversations or pictures with it can be recorded and wirelessly transmitted without effective consent or control.
Or if it is particularly suitable or even intended for unnoticed recordings. Or if the device can be accessed remotely, for example via an app, in order to eavesdrop or observe without being noticed. According to the authority, all three cases are illegal espionage devices.
Some examples of prohibited devices
– Get on the net Smartwatches offered with listening functions. Consumers should become skeptical if features such as “voice monitoring”, “baby monitor” or “one-way conversation” are advertised in addition to normal telephone functions. Because then it is likely that the smartwatch’s microphone or camera can be activated remotely via app or SMS command without the wearer of the watch or third parties in the vicinity being able to detect it.
– Also Vacuum robot using a camera and / or microphone can be illegal if they can secretly transmit pictures or audio wirelessly to the owner’s smartphone. The decisive factor here is whether there are acoustic or visual cues that make a recording recognizable to third parties. According to its own information, the Federal Network Agency is currently checking several vacuum robots for these requirements.
– toy can also be affected: dolls, robots or remote-controlled cars that are controlled via an app and are equipped with possibly hidden cameras or microphones also usually fall into the prohibited category. In particular, the authority warns against toys that connect to the Internet.
– Products that look like everyday objects and that can absorb and transmit images and sounds unnoticed are insidious. According to the Bundesnetzagentur, they are last in this category Fragrance dispensers and tissue boxes noticed.
– So-called illegal can also be used Tracker that determine a location via satellite (GPS) or cellular network (GSM) in order to monitor cars, bicycles, animals and any objects. They are often no bigger than a matchbox. In order to prevent people from being spied on, such trackers are prohibited if they can be activated unnoticed via app or SMS command.
The Federal Network Agency provides detailed information on prohibited devices and the dangers they pose on its website. For legal reasons, there is no list of prohibited products online. Anyone who is unsure before or after a purchase can also contact the authorities by email ([email protected]) or by phone (030/224 805 00) (Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.).
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