Most smart devices collect data: here’s how to find out what you’re tracking

When you think of smart home technology that collects your data, your mind probably immediately goes to your computer, phone, TV, and even smart speakers. But did you know that most smart devices also collect data? Smart refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and other connected devices collect data that you voluntarily provide. Consumer Reports reveals that major brands transmit between 3.4 MB and 19 MB of usage data to manufacturers on a weekly basis. That might not sound like much, but when it comes to textual data about your usage habits, food consumption, or even calendar items or inquiries you might communicate with a smart refrigerator, it can be shocking to consider that these companies have a goldmine of information about you that could easily be sold to the highest bidder.

The most important questions are what types of data do these smart devices collect, what are they used for, who gets them, and why should you care? In most cases, this is basic data such as how often and when you use the devices. But it also includes personal data such as your postcode, date of birth and location. It’s about privacy and being aware that your interactions with smart devices may extend beyond the confines of your home. This is of course a trade-off, as is the case with many smart devices. But being informed at least gives you some control back.

Smart devices are not only convenient, they also save time and energy. A smart fridge can alert you when you’re low on milk or let you manage a family calendar from its front screen. A smart washer can alert you when you need to refill detergent or when a load is finished. But it also means that devices can track how often you and your family members open the refrigerator door, when you go grocery shopping, how many eggs you consume each week, and even when your daughter practices soccer. The washing machine can know how often you do laundry and on which days, and even your ratio of delicates to towels and sports equipment.

The bad news is that most smart devices are constantly collecting data to send back to the manufacturer. The good news is that this data is usually encrypted. But the data collected is not clear. Consumer Reports surveyed brands in its study, but most cited only “usage and performance data.” Kenmore said it collects information such as power status (when you turn the appliance on and off), how often the door is opened and closed, filter status, cycle and temperature details, and power consumption. LG and Samsung claim to collect basic identifying information such as zip code, phone number and location. But in the future, as AI and interconnected smart homes develop, your device could collect even more data alongside other smart devices in your home. Together, these can paint a clear picture of your family’s habits and usage.

To see what your smart device tracks, your best bet is to check the company’s privacy policy. You should be able to find it online, or there may be a brochure that comes with it. You will need to spend some time reading it and deciphering some of the vague statements. Samsung’s privacy policy states that the information collected is intended for personalized advertising and direct marketing, as well as for the evaluation and improvement of its own business. But information is also shared with “subsidiaries and affiliates” as well as third-party “business partners.” There is, however, no clarity on what information is shared or why.

LG’s privacy policy states that the company collects information about the use of the Services, including device behavior, power information, etc., and it may be shared with advertising and business partners. It is used for “direct marketing activities”, to “improve your user experience” and to analyze LG’s business performance. LG tells you that you can request a copy of the personal information the company has about you at any time.

Bosch says that through the Home Connect app used with its smart devices, the company may collect “touchpoint data” in relation to your usage, which may include anonymized data for “statistical usage” purposes and a collection of your interactions.

Overall, the data collected may seem harmless. But it’s important to understand the likelihood of it being used for commercial purposes, both by the brand itself and potentially by third parties with access to the data. Given that many other smart devices we use today do the same thing, this may be a reality you’re willing to live with. And while you can investigate via privacy policies or even contact companies directly, you may never be able to get a clear picture of what information is collected about you from your smart devices and how it is used. This might make you think twice before connecting them.

That said, there are benefits to smart devices. Besides the aforementioned convenience, time and energy saving, there are also remote diagnostics, in-app troubleshooting, remote control and customization. But before you invest and connect a smart device to your home system, read the company’s privacy policy to see everything you can know about the information that will be collected and shared about you. Chances are this is both personal and usable information, albeit anonymous. Knowing the company’s policy could make a difference not only in terms of which brand you choose, but also whether you opt for smart devices.