Shortly before Christmas, the Federal Network Agency warns against intelligent toys or networked everyday objects. These are forbidden if they contain hidden microphones or cameras that can forward data to another device, such as a smartphone. The Federal Network Agency writes in a current press release.
A smartwatch is mentioned as an example if it has an additional listening function. Often these are disguised as “voice monitoring”, “baby monitor function”, “one-way conversation”. These functions can then be activated remotely via the smartphone without anyone in the vicinity noticing anything.
Federal Network Agency: You have to pay attention to this with smart gifts
Other examples are vacuum robots that eavesdrop on their surroundings or remote-controlled cars with a built-in camera.
The Federal Network Agency recommends paying particular attention to these three points:
- Does the product have a wireless camera or wireless microphone?
- Are image or audio files transmitted wirelessly to third parties without the person being recorded or having control of the recording situation?
- Can the microphone or camera be secretly accessed externally? In all of these cases the product is prohibited.
In 2021 alone, more than 4,600 prohibited products on Internet platforms were deleted at the instigation of the Federal Network Agency. At first glance, this included harmless everyday objects such as tissue boxes or fragrance dispensers.