A consumer group’s investigation found that an application linked to a Chinese-made air fryer listens to user conversations and shares them on social media platforms such as TikTok.
According to the Guardian on the 5th (local time), an investigation by the British consumer group ‘Which?’ found that apps that control air fryers from China-based ‘Aigosta’ and ‘Xiaomi’ tell users the content of their conversations. requested permission to hear. They also requested permission to track location and record phone calls.
These apps informed users that data collected when signing up may be passed on to third parties for marketing purposes.
It was found that user data collected by the apps was transmitted to the servers of Chinese companies such as TikTok.
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) plans to publish new rules on the use of consumer data next spring. The regulations require companies to transparently disclose the purpose of data collection.
‘Witch’ explained, “Currently, smart product manufacturers and their partner companies collect consumer data indiscriminately, and most of them are not transparent,” adding, “The new regulations that will be applied in the spring will also be thoroughly applied to overseas companies.”
Xiaomi claimed that Location’s investigation into sending user data to Chinese servers was inaccurate. At the same time, it was added that the permission to record user audio in the companion app ‘Xiaomi Home’ does not apply to the air fryer.
Aigostar has not yet announced its position.
Hyewon Lee, Donga.com Reporter [email protected]
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Time.news Interview: Exploring Privacy Concerns with Smart Appliances
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into a rather alarming issue regarding smart appliances, particularly the recently highlighted concerns surrounding Xiaomi’s air fryer and its associated apps. Joining us is Dr. Alice Cheng, a cybersecurity expert specializing in consumer tech privacy. Thank you for being here, Dr. Cheng!
Dr. Cheng: Thank you for having me. It’s important to shed light on these issues.
Editor: Let’s get straight to it. A recent investigation by the UK consumer group ‘Which?’ revealed that apps controlling air fryers from companies like Xiaomi and Aigosta are potentially listening to user conversations. What are your initial thoughts on this?
Dr. Cheng: My initial reaction is one of concern. The idea that household appliances might be recording users and sharing that data without clear consent is more than just unsettling; it’s a significant breach of privacy. The fact that these companies might send personal data to platforms like TikTok raises further questions about data security and user consent.
Editor: Absolutely. The report mentioned that these apps request permissions to not only access audio but also track locations and potentially record phone calls. How does this align with consumer expectations around privacy?
Dr. Cheng: Consumers generally expect that their devices will operate transparently and respect their privacy. When users grant permissions, they often do so under the assumption that these are for functionality purposes—like being able to control their appliances remotely—not for eavesdropping or comprehensive data collection. Companies must be upfront about how they utilize consumer data, and unfortunately, many are not.
Editor: It seems that the new regulations to be introduced by the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) will require businesses to be more transparent about their data collection practices. What impact do you think these regulations will have?
Dr. Cheng: These regulations are a step in the right direction. If enforced properly, they could hold companies accountable for how they manage consumer data and enforce transparency. Companies will need to disclose the reasons for data collection, how it’s used, and crucially, they must respect user choices regarding their privacy.
Editor: Xiaomi responded to these allegations by stating that the claims regarding user data being sent to Chinese servers are inaccurate and that the permissions for recording user audio in their app don’t apply specifically to the air fryer. How should consumers interpret these responses?
Dr. Cheng: Consumers should remain skeptical. It’s all too common for companies to downplay concerns regarding data privacy, especially when it may affect their reputation or profits. Users should take the statements with caution and keep questioning what permissions they are granting. A good rule of thumb is to limit permissions to only what is necessary for functionality.
Editor: Aigostar has yet to comment on this issue. Do you think there’s a wider culture of data negligence among tech manufacturers, especially those based in regions with different regulatory standards?
Dr. Cheng: Yes, I believe there’s a significant cultural difference in how data is viewed and treated, particularly between Western and Eastern companies. Many manufacturers still operate under the assumption that data collection is an intrinsic part of their business model, often prioritizing profit over privacy. This incident underscores the need for a global conversation about consumer data rights and best practices.
Editor: What advice can you give consumers who are concerned about the privacy implications of their smart appliances?
Dr. Cheng: First and foremost, be vigilant. Check the permissions that apps request and only grant necessary access. Regularly audit the apps you have installed and consider whether you truly need them. Also, stay informed about the products you use—do your research and understand how they handle your data. Lastly, advocate for stronger regulations and insist companies prioritize consumer privacy.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Cheng, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. It’s critical for consumers to be aware of these risks in our increasingly connected world.
Dr. Cheng: Thank you for having me. Awareness is the first step toward protecting user privacy.
Editor: And thank you to our readers for joining us today. Stay tuned for more discussions on technology, privacy, and consumer rights here at Time.news!