Electronic doorbells and thermostats are smart home devices that can make our lives more convenient and comfortable. However, they also pose significant privacy risks that we should be aware of and take steps to mitigate.

How do they collect information?

Electronic doorbells, such as Ring and Nest Hello, are equipped with cameras and microphones to capture video and audio of anyone approaching your door. They can also connect to your smartphone and send you alerts and notifications. Some models even allow you to communicate with visitors remotely through the app.

Electronic thermostats, such as Nest and Ecobee, can monitor and adjust the temperature and humidity of your home based on your preferences and habits. They can also connect to your smartphone and other smart devices, such as speakers and lights, to create a personalized and automated environment.

Both devices can collect and store much data, such as your face, voice, location, schedule, behavior, and preferences. This data can reveal sensitive and personal information about you and your household, such as your identity, health, lifestyle, and activities.

How do they invade your privacy?

Electronic doorbells and thermostats can invade your privacy in several ways, such as:

  • Allowing unauthorized access: If the devices are not properly secured, hackers or malicious actors can access them remotely and spy on you or your visitors. They can also access your wireless network, e-mail addresses, and other personal data. Hackers exploited those vulnerabilities and harassed, insulted, and propositioned children and teens through their Ring cameras. 
  • Sharing without consent: If the devices are connected to third-party services or platforms, such as cloud storage, social media, or law enforcement agencies, they can share your data without your explicit consent or knowledge. For example, Ring has partnered with over 2,000 police departments across the US to provide them access to users’ videos upon request, without requiring a warrant or notification. This can potentially violate your Fourth Amendment rights and expose you to legal risks.
  • Violating others’ privacy: If the devices are pointed at public spaces or your neighbors’ property, they can capture and record people with a reasonable expectation of privacy. This can create ethical and social dilemmas, as well as potential lawsuits.

How can you protect your privacy?

Electronic doorbells and thermostats can offer many benefits but also have serious privacy risks. To protect your privacy, you should take some precautions, such as:

  • Secure your devices: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, update the software regularly, and turn off any unnecessary features or permissions. Using a secure wireless network to encrypt your data would be best.
  • Review the terms and settings: You should read and understand the terms of service and privacy policy of the devices and the apps. You should also review and adjust the settings to limit the data collection and sharing. It would be best to opt out of any third-party partnerships or programs you are uncomfortable with.
  • Respect others’ privacy: You should respect the privacy of your visitors and neighbors. You should inform them of the presence and purpose of the devices and obtain their consent before recording or sharing their data. You should also avoid pointing the devices at places where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Electronic doorbells and thermostats are not just gadgets but also potential privacy invaders. By being aware of the risks and taking steps to mitigate them, you can enjoy the convenience and comfort of these devices without compromising your privacy.