FBI Warns Parents About Security, Privacy Risk of Children's Internet-Connected Toys

Consumers should be aware of internet-connected toys and other entertainment devices that could pose a cybersecurity and privacy risk to their children, said an FBI public service announcement issued Monday. The PSA provides reasons why parents should be concerned, what makes some toys vulnerable and the laws to protect families. The FBI encourages parents to better research a connected toy's security measures, updates it may need and where their child's data is being stored and with whom. They should monitor their children's activities with the toys such as making voice recordings, use strong and unique passwords, and provide minimal amount of data for user accounts, the agency said, adding consumers should read disclosures and privacy policies regarding notifications of problems. Privacy groups and some lawmakers, like Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., in recent months have sounded an alarm on such interactive toys (see 1705220057, 1704260007 and 1703220045).