Smart Assistants for Seniors: Privacy Risks and Data Security Tips

It was last Tuesday, around 10 AM, when my cousin called, sounding frantic. Her mom, my Aunt Carol who’s 82, had been happily using an Amazon Echo to play music and set reminders. But then Carol started getting targeted ads for things she'd only mentioned in passing to the device – a new brand of incontinence pads, a specific type of foot cream for neuropathy. My cousin was horrified. "It feels like someone's listening all the time!" she said.

Smart assistants – devices like Amazon Echo (Alexa), Google Home, and Apple HomePod – are increasingly popular tools for helping seniors stay connected, manage medications, and control their homes. They offer convenience and can be a lifeline for those living alone. But they also bring real concerns about privacy and data security.

Are Smart Assistants Safe for Seniors? Understanding the Risks

The convenience of voice-activated technology comes with trade-offs. These devices are always listening, waiting for a wake word. This constant monitoring raises several potential privacy issues:

• Data Collection: Smart assistants record and store voice interactions. This data can be used to create detailed profiles, target advertising, and potentially even be accessed by third parties.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Like any internet-connected device, smart assistants are susceptible to hacking. A compromised device could allow unauthorized access to personal information or control over other smart home devices.
• Lack of Transparency: It's not always clear exactly how collected data is used or with whom it's shared. The terms of service can be lengthy and difficult to understand, especially for older adults.
• Accidental Activation: Smart assistants can sometimes be triggered by similar-sounding words or phrases, leading to unintended recordings and potential privacy breaches. My aunt's experience of suddenly seeing targeted ads is a good example of this – the device likely picked up on a casual mention of a medical need.
• Elder Fraud Exploitation: Sadly, scammers are increasingly using information gathered from online sources, including smart device data, to target seniors with personalized scams. AARP reports that seniors lose an estimated $28.3 billion each year to financial exploitation ([AARP](https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2023/common-scams.html), 2023).

What Data is Collected By Smart Assistants?

Smart assistants collect a wide range of data, including:

• Voice Recordings: Every interaction is recorded and stored, unless manually deleted.
• Search History: Questions asked and commands given are logged.
• Location Data: If enabled, the device tracks the user's location.
• Contact Information: Access to contacts allows for calls and messages.
• Usage Patterns: The device learns how and when it's used, providing insights into daily routines.

What are the Signs of a Potential Privacy Breach?

It’s not always obvious when a smart assistant's privacy has been breached. However, some red flags include:

• Unusual Device Behavior: The device turns on or responds when not prompted.
• Unexpected Ads: Seeing targeted ads for products or services not actively searched for.
• Unexplained Account Activity: Discovering unfamiliar purchases or changes to account settings.
• Suspicious Calls or Messages: Receiving unsolicited calls or messages from unknown numbers.

How Can I Help My Parent Protect Their Privacy With Smart Assistants? Practical Tips

Protecting your loved one's privacy doesn't mean abandoning smart assistants altogether. It's about taking proactive steps to minimize risks and maximize control over their data.

1. Review and Adjust Privacy Settings: Both Amazon Alexa and Google Home offer various privacy settings. Take the time to review these settings and disable features that aren't needed. For example, you can disable the option to use voice recordings to improve the service. You can also set the device to automatically delete recordings after a certain period. Honestly, this is the first thing I'd do.
2. Regularly Review Voice History: Both platforms allow you to review and delete voice recordings. Make it a habit to check the voice history regularly and delete any recordings that contain sensitive information or were recorded accidentally.
3. Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Secure the smart assistant account with a strong, unique password. Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security. This makes it much harder for hackers to access the account.
4. Limit Access to Personal Information: Be mindful of the information shared with the smart assistant. Avoid giving it access to sensitive data like bank account details or social security numbers.
5. Disable Personalized Advertising: Opt out of personalized advertising in the device's settings. This will limit the use of voice data for targeted ads. Even if it doesn’t eliminate all targeted ads, it’s a step in the right direction.
6. Be Aware of Third-Party Skills and Actions: Smart assistants can be extended with third-party skills and actions. Before enabling a new skill, research the developer and read reviews to ensure it's trustworthy. Grant only the necessary permissions.
7. Consider Local Processing Options: Some smart devices offer local processing, meaning data is processed on the device itself rather than being sent to the cloud. This can significantly improve privacy.
8. Physically Mute the Microphone When Not in Use: Most smart assistants have a physical button to mute the microphone. Encourage your loved one to use this feature when they don't want the device listening.
9. Keep the Device Software Updated: Regularly update the smart assistant's software to ensure it has the latest security patches.

Choosing the Right Device: Prioritizing Privacy

When selecting a smart assistant for a senior, consider privacy as a key factor. Look for devices that offer robust privacy features and transparent data handling practices. For example, as reported in The Manila Times new smart locks are using Palm Vein recognition to deliver secure, contactless access.

Exploring Alternatives: App-Free Smart Plugs and Basic Phones

If privacy concerns are paramount, consider alternatives to traditional smart assistants. A recent article on MSN highlights an app-free smart plug that allows voice commands without the data collection associated with larger ecosystems like Amazon and Google. These simpler devices can offer some of the benefits of smart home automation without the privacy trade-offs. For seniors who primarily need communication and wellness check-ins, a basic phone paired with a service like ElderVoice, which provides proactive, AI-powered companionship calls, can be a great option. ElderVoice uses any existing phone, which avoids the data security risks of internet-connected devices. Services like geofencing can add an extra layer of security, and are often compatible with a basic cell phone.

Remember the Human Touch

Technology should enhance, not replace, human connection. While smart assistants can be helpful, they shouldn't be the sole source of companionship or care. Encourage regular visits, phone calls, and social activities to combat isolation and promote well-being. This is something I worry about – that we’ll rely too much on devices and forget the importance of actually being there.

Protecting your loved one's privacy in the age of smart technology requires vigilance and ongoing effort. By understanding the risks, implementing practical safeguards, and prioritizing human connection, you can help them enjoy the benefits of these devices while minimizing potential harm.

"Privacy is not an option, and it shouldn't be the price we accept for just getting on the Internet." — Gary Kovacs

Frequently Asked Questions