The 2025 holiday season is here, and AI-powered gifts are at the top of every child’s wish list. However, new research suggests that these “smart” companions might be spying on your home. As you shop for the latest gadgets, understanding smart toy security risks is essential to keeping your family safe from hackers and data thieves.
Why Smart Toys Are a Target
This year, the Mozilla Foundation’s Privacy Not Included report revealed that many popular connected toys lack basic encryption. From the Emo Robot to the Amazon Fire Kids Tablet, smart toy security risks are widespread. Hackers can exploit weak Bluetooth connections to listen in on conversations or even talk to your child through the toy. In some cases, AI toys have been found to share personal data with third-party advertisers without clear parental consent.
Hidden Dangers in the Playroom
The biggest smart toy security risks involve unauthenticated Bluetooth pairing. If a toy doesn’t require a PIN code to connect, a stranger outside your house could potentially take control of the device. Furthermore, many toys store voice recordings and photos on unencrypted SD cards. If the toy is lost or stolen, that sensitive data is instantly accessible to anyone who finds it.
How to Protect Your Family
To minimize smart toy security risks, always research a toy’s privacy policy before buying. Look for products that process data locally rather than in the cloud. Set up a separate “Guest” Wi-Fi network for all smart devices to keep them isolated from your personal computers. Finally, always turn off the toy completely when it’s not being used to cut off potential remote access.
While AI toys offer exciting new ways to play, they also introduce serious security risks. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can ensure that your holiday season remains festive and secure. Don’t let a vulnerability turn your child’s new best friend into a spy in your living room.
