Smart toys might be spying on kids, report warns
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Toys that use AI have some risks to consider.
If there isn’t a “smart” toy on your child’s holiday list, is it even 2023? But before you hit “add to cart” this shopping season, double check that AI-based toy they are asking for, a watchdog research group called U.S. PIRG warns. In their newly released report called Trouble in Toyland 2023, they caution parents about the risks of AI-based toys, especially ones with trackers, microphones, and cameras, which may be giving away more information than you’re comfortable with, and even try to form a relationship with your child. It sounds like every futuristic WALL-E type movie is finally the now.
Parents have all types of new concerns to percolate on after a N.J. girl was kidnapped by someone she met on Roblox, and Fisher Price’s Smart Toy Bear was discontinued a few years ago after hackers were able to steal data. So, how can a parent make some seriously excited kids happy without compromising their data and safety?
Keep an eye on these specific potential issues, by thoroughly researching the product you are considering, the report suggests:
- Reconsider introducing virtual reality too soon: it feels very real, it doesn’t fit young bodies well, it introduces social interactions that can turn negative quickly, and popular apps sometimes include sexually graphic content. In addition, Quest headsets, for example, gather plenty of data on users, the report says.
- For smart toys, consider: if it has a microphone, camera, connects to WiFi or Bluetooth, collects data on anyone, if there’s a privacy policy, if it has an app, and if it allows your child to spend money.
- Other toys to research include drones, smart watches, and smart speakers.
With a bit of vigilance, you can ensure you aren’t bringing a risky toy home for the holidays.
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