https://www.consumerwatchdog.org/privacy-technology/how-google-and-amazon-are-spying-you
You would be forgiven for thinking that your private conversations were just that, but two leading voice assistants are listening to everything you say, a new report claims.
Patent applications from Amazon and Google revealed how their Alexa and Voice Assistant powered smart speakers are ‘spying’ on you.
The study warns of an Orwellian future in which the gadgets eavesdrop on everything from confidential conversations to your toilet flushing habits.
Future versions of gadgets like the Echo and Home will use this data to try and sell you products, it says.
The findings were published in a report created by Santa Monica, California based advocacy group Consumer Watchdog.
It says patents reveal the devices’ possible use as surveillance equipment for massive information collection and intrusive digital advertising.
The study found that digital assistants can be ‘awake’ even when users think they aren’t listening.
Don’t have one of these things in your house. Ever.