The Hidden Risks of Pet Technology: Privacy and Security Concerns for Pet Owners
A new study reveals the vulnerabilities and user perceptions surrounding pet technology, raising concerns about privacy and security for pet owners.
As pet owners increasingly turn to technology for various aspects of pet care, such as feeding, health monitoring, and activity tracking, a new study sheds light on the privacy and security risks associated with these pet tech devices. With the market value of pet technology projected to reach $3.7 billion by 2026, it is crucial to examine the potential vulnerabilities and user perceptions surrounding these devices. The study, titled “Security and Privacy of Pet Technologies: Actual Risks vs. User Perception,” conducted by researchers from Newcastle University and the University of London, delves into the privacy and security practices of commonly-used pet tech apps and explores the measures taken by pet owners to protect themselves and their pets.
The Wide Range of Pet Technologies
Pet technology offers a variety of features that cater to different aspects of pet care. Owners can remotely feed their animals, dispense water and medication, monitor their activity and track their movements via GPS, and even play with them using automatic ball launchers. These technologies operate through devices and apps connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), raising concerns about privacy and security.
The Lack of Regulation and Loose Security Standards
Despite the growing popularity of pet tech, there is a notable lack of legal regulation regarding privacy and security standards for these devices. The study found that while laws exist to regulate the collection and storage of human-related data, few regulations address the privacy and security of pet technology. This gap leaves pet owners vulnerable to potential security breaches, with personal information and crucial functions at risk. The researchers discovered that some pet tech apps had visible login details and could expose sensitive information about users and their pets.
Inability to Consent to Privacy Policies
The study revealed that many pet tech apps lacked clear privacy policies and failed to obtain user consent before tracking their data. Only one out of the 20 apps surveyed displayed a privacy policy and required user agreement. Violations of privacy regulations, such as the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), were identified, as users were not given the option to decline the privacy policy and continue using the app.
User Experiences and Predictions
The researchers surveyed pet owners from the UK, US, and Germany to gather insights into their experiences with pet tech and their predictions regarding privacy and security incidents. While incidents of harm to humans were not reported, respondents did report instances of devices malfunctioning, inability to access accounts, data leaks, and unauthorized account access. Interestingly, more respondents anticipated device malfunctions than data leaks or unauthorized access.
Respondent Privacy and Security Precautions
Although respondents expressed concerns about privacy and security incidents, the study found that pet owners took fewer security measures specifically for their pet tech compared to general security measures. This discrepancy highlights the need for increased awareness and education on privacy and security precautions for pet owners using IoT devices.
Conclusion:
The study’s findings highlight the pressing need for stronger regulations and improved privacy and security measures in the pet technology industry. Pet owners must be informed about the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with these devices to protect themselves and their pets. By addressing these concerns and conducting further research, the aim is to create a safer and more secure environment for both animals and their owners in the realm of pet technology.