Articles tagged with "privacy"
‘End-to-end encrypted’ smart toilet camera is not actually end-to-end encrypted
Kohler’s smart toilet camera, Dekoda, which captures images of users’ toilet bowls to analyze gut health, has been marketed as using “end-to-end encryption” to secure user data. However, security researcher Simon Fondrie-Teitler revealed that Kohler’s claim is misleading. The company actually employs TLS encryption, which protects data during transmission over the internet but does not provide true end-to-end encryption where only the communicating users can access the data. This distinction is critical because users might mistakenly believe Kohler cannot access their images, when in fact the company can decrypt and process the data on its servers. Kohler’s privacy contact confirmed that user data is encrypted at rest on devices and servers, and encrypted in transit, but is decrypted on Kohler’s systems for analysis. This means Kohler has access to the images, raising concerns about potential use of this data, such as training AI algorithms. The company stated that their algorithms are trained only on de-identified data,
IoTsmart-homeprivacyencryptionsmart-toiletdata-securitysensorsWhy you need a security camera without subscription for home security
The article emphasizes the benefits of using home security cameras that operate without a subscription service. Such cameras allow homeowners to monitor entry points like front doors and backyards without incurring ongoing monthly fees for cloud storage or advanced alerts. Instead, these cameras store video locally—on microSD cards, network video recorders, or personal cloud services—giving users full control over their footage, enhancing privacy, and avoiding reliance on third-party servers. This approach not only protects sensitive data from external breaches and shifting privacy policies but also saves significant money over time, potentially up to a thousand dollars over five years compared to subscription-based models. Additionally, no-subscription cameras offer flexible storage options tailored to individual needs, from short clips on memory cards to continuous recording on large hard drives, all manageable through a single app. They are also designed for easy DIY installation, often requiring minimal tools and offering features like solar panels or Power over Ethernet (PoE) for convenient power solutions. The article highlights Reolink as a trusted
IoThome-securitysecurity-camerasprivacycloud-storagenetwork-video-recordersmart-alertsKnicks player Miles McBride launches a location-sharing friendship app to rival Snap Map
Knicks player Miles “Deuce” McBride has co-founded a new location-sharing friendship app called Mmotion, designed to help users organically meet people with similar interests in their vicinity. Motivated by his own experience of loneliness as a young rookie in New York, McBride partnered with startup veteran Joe Einhorn to create an app that competes with features like Snap Map and Find My, but with a focus on meaningful social connections rather than superficial social media interactions. Currently in beta with a 1,000-member limit in NYC, Mmotion uses geofencing and state tracking to highlight nearby users who share interests, offers private messaging, and provides a personal timeline of visited locations. The app emphasizes user privacy and safety through encrypted location data, an incognito “Vault Mode” by default, and a “Personas” feature that allows users to share different location information with distinct groups, such as public fans versus close friends. Users apply for membership, select interests, join up to five “Cir
IoTlocation-sharinggeofencingmobile-appprivacysocial-networkingencrypted-dataNew AI toilet camera scans waste for hydration and gut insights
Kohler has introduced Dekoda, a $599 AI-powered toilet-mounted camera designed to monitor users’ health by analyzing waste samples. The device tracks hydration, gut health, and detects traces of blood using discreet optics that focus solely on the toilet contents, ensuring user privacy. It mounts easily on most toilet rims without tools and includes fingerprint authentication for multi-user households. Health data is encrypted end-to-end and managed through the Kohler Health app, which provides trend tracking, health scores, and notifications of irregularities. The device operates on a rechargeable battery lasting about a week and supports USB-C charging. Dekoda represents Kohler’s entry into the digital health market under its new wellness division, aiming to integrate medical-grade insights into daily routines. While not a replacement for medical testing, it serves as an early warning tool to prompt users to consult healthcare professionals if needed. The product requires a subscription for ongoing AI analysis, costing between $70 and $156 annually. Positioned in the premium segment, Dekoda
IoTAIhealth-monitoringsmart-devicesprivacywearable-technologydigital-healthKohler unveils a camera for your toilet
Kohler has introduced the Dekoda, a $599 camera designed to attach to your toilet bowl and capture images of its contents. The device analyzes these images to provide insights into gut health, hydration levels, and potentially detect the presence of blood. Equipped with a rechargeable battery, USB connection, and a fingerprint sensor for user identification, the Dekoda aims to offer personalized health monitoring. Shipments are set to begin on October 21, 2025, with an additional subscription fee ranging from $70 to $156 required for ongoing service. Addressing privacy concerns, Kohler assures users that the Dekoda’s sensors only view inside the toilet bowl and nowhere else, and that all collected data is protected with end-to-end encryption. This product reflects a growing trend in health technology that leverages imaging and data analysis for personal wellness, joining other companies exploring similar approaches to monitoring digestive health through stool analysis.
IoTsmart-homehealth-monitoringprivacywearable-technologyconnected-devicesbiometric-sensorsAmazon acquires Bee, the AI wearable that records everything you say
Amazon has acquired Bee, an AI wearables startup known for its affordable, Fitbit-like bracelet and Apple Watch app that continuously records ambient audio to assist users with reminders and to-do lists. Bee’s device, priced at $49.99 plus a $19 monthly subscription, aims to create a “cloud phone” experience by mirroring users’ phone notifications and accounts, enabling seamless personal assistance. The company emphasizes providing a personal, ambient intelligence that acts as a trusted companion, helping users reflect and remember without feeling intrusive. While AI-enabled wearables have struggled to gain traction, Bee’s lower price point may attract more consumers willing to experiment with such technology. However, these devices raise significant privacy and security concerns due to their constant recording capabilities. Bee states that users can delete their data anytime, and audio recordings are not stored or used for AI training, though the app retains learned user data to function effectively. The company also plans to enhance privacy by developing on-device AI processing. It remains uncertain how Amazon will
IoTwearable-technologyAIprivacyAmazon-acquisitionambient-intelligencevoice-recognitionApple notifies new victims of spyware attacks across the world
Applespywarecybersecuritygovernment-surveillanceprivacytech-newsnotificationsGoogle Wallet to add support for digital IDs in more states
Google-Walletdigital-IDsmobile-IDsage-verificationREAL-IDtechnologyprivacy