NOTE – there is no way I can list every device that collects data in your home. But I’ll list the ones I use. You can add or delete to your list.
A digital device is one that has memory, via hardware/software. The memory can be local/internal or connect to external services via wi-fi, blue tooth, etc.
Data stored can be all sorts of information. From how often it is on to what settings. Something simple would be your home thermostat. If it may have connected to a website or mobile app.
- My iPhone. Any smart phone.
- My iPad. Any tablets, game consoles, laptops.
- AT&T Digital life – aka my alarm system. Depending on the various components connected to your system, it knows when you are home, how often you leave the house. Commonly used doors and windows.
- Don’t let your guard. The alarm system is for my physical wellbeing. Which has a digital component, a website and app. So I only have cameras on the outside of the house. I also keep a sticker over my cameras on my MAC, laptop and tablets.
- At&T internet and cable TV, And all streaming entertainment (Hulu, Netflix, YouTube). They know when you are watching, how long you are watching, what time you are watching, type of device you are using.
- There are some viewing devices that use voice commands and motion sensor, and would be able to determine when the room is occupied and the activities.
- My Buick and OnStar. Besides the GPS information, where you go, how often and when, your vehicle’s diagnostics system collects; tire pressures and other engine conditions.
- Alexa (aka Echo). This devices is always on and listening. FYI – all request you make to Alexa are captured in history within the Echo app (accessed online). Echo is an Amazon product, marring online shopping and at home activity into an individual’s profile.
- GoPro and other digital cameras/videos. Time and location are stored in the memory with the photos. A camera that uses 35 mm film may have some memory within the camera software itself.
- Printers. Did you know that trapped deep in the printer memory is a copy of everything that has been scanned and printed. There is a tiny memory chip that compresses the files to achieve. This chip allows the system to recall the last X copies and other fun features.
- FitBit and other health monitors.
- Craftsman Garage Opener. Wireless keypad and accessible via mobile app.
- Roku
- Wii and other gaming consoles.
That is a good list, considering I claim to be low tech (maybe I’m medium tech). I’m not an early adopter, but I am curious. It takes me time to commit to purchasing new tech gadget, but I do have a collection of digital devices.
You may have a baby monitor, automatic vacuum, anything that connects to a mobile app, website or router.