The general attitude towards privacy held by most of those using smart devices has become one of resignation, according to a recent study from researchers at the University of Michigan. In spite of privacy risks and regular breaches that accompany devices such smart TVs and speakers, users have taken up the attitude that protecting their privacy is a worthless effort compared to the tradeoffs of using the devices. In many ways the behavior is an extension of the disconnect between people claiming they value their privacy but not making the effort to use strong passwords or implement basic security practices. While many devices contain a mute option that shuts down its microphone, the study indicated that most of the participants in the study never used the option. And instead of using activity log features to review and delete recordings, users often use it to monitor activity of guests, housesits, and babysitters.
Source: People Who Buy Smart Speakers Have Given Up on Privacy, Researchers Find – Motherboard
