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Eavesdropping Alexa?

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TikToker @my.data.not.yours, took to the media to announce a discovery after requesting all data documented on behalf of her Amazon device which included two echo dots, an Alexa as well as a couple of Smart Bulbs.

The retrieved information contained a vast amount of files varying from “Audio and Transition,” to “Video,” embedded with thousands of incremental clips capturing moments when this user was unaware of documentation. 

Records stated as well a list of this woman’s contacts as well as the location detailed in specifics of latitude and longitude of her Alexa, although she could not recall allowing permission to any extent. 

The video quickly spread like wildfire, gaining 193,000 likes, over 6,000 comments from distressed Amazon customers, as well as 2.6 million views including Amazon.

Though this point was brought to fruition as a controllable aspect, after an Amazon spokesperson released a statement, the question is still brought to mention whether a company similar to Amazon, should be offering these concepts by any means, as well as the trustworthiness of these organizations considering their explicit track record. 

When discussing this topic with students at WJPS junior Sonya Woodham said, “No, I don’t trust these companies because of the third parties, which my information could be sold to, regardless of the appearance of trust.”

While WJPS junior Daniela Quispe stated, “To be completely honest, with companies like Amazon, it’s fine to know our location for packages, but anything beyond that should be considered especially if we aren’t made aware.” 

“File:AmazonAlexaBooth.jpg” by Raysonho @ Open Grid Scheduler / Scalable Grid Engine is marked with CC0 1.0 

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