Smart toys pose data privacy risks to children

IT experts from ARAG have highlighted the security and privacy risks associated with internet-connected stuffed animals. Many modern toys are equipped with microphones, sensors, and internet connectivity, transforming them into devices that collect and transmit data.

These smart toys often use artificial intelligence to interact with children through voice commands and dialogue. To function, these systems frequently process speech data and transmit it to external servers for recognition or response generation. This process can lead to the creation of profiles regarding a child's preferences and usage behavior.

Key risks include the potential for data misuse through security vulnerabilities, which could allow unauthorized parties to eavesdrop on conversations or access camera feeds. Additionally, there is a risk that sensitive information regarding communication and behavior could be stored, analyzed, or shared with third parties for advertising or analytical purposes.