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Smart Appliances

Introduction

Smart appliances have transformed our homes since the early 2010s, promising enhanced convenience and efficiency through internet connectivity. From refrigerators that track groceries to TVs that monitor viewing habits, these devices have brought unprecedented functionality but also introduced new privacy concerns as they collect and transmit data about our daily lives and household activities.

Providers

Samsung SmartThings

Samsung’s smart home ecosystem collects extensive data about appliance usage and home activities. In 2021, researchers found that Samsung smart TVs were collecting and transmitting viewing data even when privacy features were enabled. The company’s appliances share data across their ecosystem for targeted advertising.

LG ThinQ

LG’s connected appliances track usage patterns and user preferences. In 2020, security researchers discovered vulnerabilities in LG’s smart home platform that could expose user data and control of appliances. The company’s TVs have faced criticism for collecting viewing data through automatic content recognition (ACR).

GE Smart Appliances

GE’s connected appliances gather detailed usage data and maintenance information. In 2022, the company updated its privacy policy to allow broader data sharing with service providers and partners. Their smart appliances continuously monitor and report usage patterns to their cloud services.

Whirlpool Connected

Whirlpool’s smart appliances collect operational data and usage patterns. The company faced scrutiny in 2021 for their data retention practices and sharing of appliance usage data with third-party advertisers. Their connected features require extensive data collection for functionality.

Recommendations

  1. Consider whether smart features are necessary for each appliance
  2. Use appliances in offline mode when possible
  3. Create a separate network for smart home devices
  4. Regularly review and update privacy settings
  5. Disable unnecessary features like voice control
  6. Be cautious about connecting appliances to third-party services

Actions

  • Review privacy settings on all smart appliances
  • Set up a separate IoT network or VLAN
  • Disable ACR and tracking features on smart TVs
  • Update firmware on all connected appliances
  • Check and restrict app permissions
  • Remove unused devices from your network
  • Opt out of data sharing where possible