Or just unplug the camera altogether .Along similar lines, consider covering up the front-facing camera on your laptop with opaque tape unless you need it regularly for video chats. What if you&China lipstick aluminum tube39;re having private conversations at home? Are they getting sent over the internet, too?In some cases, sound recordings will only leave home when you trigger the device. Laptops aren't supposed to send video unless you activate an app that needs it, but malware has been known to activate the camera remotely.)One more catch: Voice commands sent over the internet are typically stored indefinitely to help manufacturers personalize their services (and, potentially, advertisements).Some rental properties are also turning to smart locks to control access. (Photo: AP) More people are getting voice-activated speakers and other smart devices for convenience and security.

Burglars might try to hack the system, though it's often easier for them to just break a window.Many of these devices are constantly listening for your commands; when they receive them, they connect to corporate servers to carry them out. (You can check online to see if other parents or consumer groups have identified problems. If you want to be very careful, you might want to turn the camera to face the wall when you're home. Check before buying to make sure a product includes such safeguards. end-of Tags: speakers, gadgets, google, amazon. Reputable brands let you review and delete your voice history; be sure to do so regularly. As people get voice-activated speakers and online security cameras for convenience and peace of mind, are they also giving hackers a key to their homes? Many devices from reputable manufacturers have safeguards built in, but safeguards aren't the same as guarantees. But these systems also let landlords track your whereabouts and those of your guests. They can be sought in lawsuits and investigations. Beyond that, many smart TVs and TV streaming devices now have voice-activated functions, often for playback controls and video search.Some gadgets go further. But doing so could also be giving hackers a key to their homes.LISTENING INSpeakers with built-in microphones are increasingly popular.WATCHING YOUOnline security cameras such as the Cam IQ, from Google sibling company Nest, let you check in on your pets or kids when you're not home.Moccupant

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