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Technology
28 December 2024

Rising Concerns Over Data Privacy Leaks From Smart Devices

Recent studies reveal alarming data collection practices by leading tech companies, raising questions about consumer privacy.

Concerns are growing among consumers as studies reveal potential data privacy risks associated with the use of smart technology. Recent findings from the consumer advocacy organization Which? have exposed how smart devices from leading brands such as Xiaomi, Tencent, and Aigostar are collecting unnecessary personal data from users.

Harry Rose, editor at Which?, stated, "Our research shows smart technology manufacturers and their partners can seemingly collect data from consumers indiscriminately, often done with very little or no transparency." The report shows devices requesting access to sensitive information, such as location, gender, birth dates, and even microphones without just cause. Alarmingly, Aigostar and Xiaomi's air fryers were found sending user data to servers located in China.

This research highlights the significant privacy differences between Android and iOS devices and doesn’t accuse the companies of any legal wrongdoing. Xiaomi has responded, clarifying, "The microphone access on the Xiaomi Home app does not apply to the Xiaomi Smart Air Fryer, which does not operate directly through voice commands or video chat.”

According to Tom's Guide expert Anthony Spadafora, smart home devices, particularly budget options, often harbor security gaps. He advises consumers to isolate these devices on separate Wi-Fi networks to mitigate the risk of intrusion. Spadafora also urges users to carefully check access permissions when installing apps, granting permissions only when absolutely necessary. While many manufacturers claim data collection enhances user experience by providing usage suggestions, collecting sensitive information such as location or birthdays may not yield significant benefits for the user.

Meanwhile, the National Cyber Security Association's 2024 Cybersecurity Report indicates data leaks remain prevalent across Vietnam. The association emphasizes the necessity of complying with personal data protection guidelines to safeguard individual rights and interests in the digital age. The report's findings have stirred widespread concern, particularly due to the sensitive nature of the data being collected—users' phone numbers, addresses, bank account details, and online habits.

Comments from the public reveal widespread unease over data misuse. One user recounts their experience after signing up for loyalty cards at major supermarkets, stating, “I started receiving numerous unwanted promotional calls shortly after I signed up. It makes me uneasy to think how else my information is being used.”

With many citizens regularly downloading apps for various services, including online shopping and check-ins, there are concerns about the security of their personal data. A respondent pointed out, “It’s frustrating to have my data used without my consent. It’s high time regulations tighten to enforce stricter data protection.”

Vu Ngoc Son, head of technology at the National Cyber Security Association, highlighted concerning statistics indicating over 66% of users have experienced unauthorized use of their data. The report pointed out prevalent causes of leaks, with 73.99% attributing leaks to information shared during online purchases.

Further aggravation stems from the ease of sharing personal information across various online platforms. Ngoc Son noted, “Users today might have two to three social media accounts and access dozens of e-commerce sites, meaning their data gets stored across countless systems. Protecting this data from potential breaches is challenging as practices vary widely.”

Consumer awareness is seen as lacking; many users are quick to share their personal information without verifying how it's being utilized. This lax attitude not only causes inconvenience but also creates fertile ground for sophisticated scams. Cybercriminals are increasingly utilizing personal data combined with AI technologies to craft manipulative scams.

To safeguard against potential breaches and cyberattacks, Vu recommends consumers limit the sharing of sensitive information on social media and critically assess the credibility of websites and businesses before providing personal details. Utilizing strong passwords unique to each account, and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) are also among his suggestions to bolster account protection.

The threat of malware is another pressing concern. A staggering 23.40% of users reported encountering malware attacks at least once within the past year, with 9.65% falling victim to ransomware—malware known to encrypt files and demand payment for their decryption.

These incidents primarily stem from users inadvertently downloading applications from dubious sources. Reports indicate 31.36% of users have downloaded software through links received via email or chat, often disguised as appealing offers.

Therefore, experts urge users to refrain from downloading software from dubious locations and to utilize official application stores or the official websites of manufacturers when seeking software installations. Regular operating system updates and maintaining reputable antivirus software, alongside periodic data backups, are also highlighted as necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with malware attacks.

With technology advancing and online interactions becoming increasingly prevalent, the need for rigorous data privacy protections has never been more pressing. Without comprehensive reforms, consumers may continue to live with the anxieties surrounding data breaches and privacy compromises.

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