Smartwatches and children's safety

26.10.2017

Question for written answer E-006692-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Liisa Jaakonsaari (S&D)

A recent study by the Norwegian Consumer Council has found that there are serious security and data protection issues with children’s smartwatches. The study found that smartwatches currently available on the market have serious flaws which enable potential hackers to control the apps, giving them access to real time and historical data about children’s physical location and allowing them to directly contact children without their parents’ knowledge. Potential attackers could also manipulate the location data to send out incorrect information to parents about their child’s location. The study found that the security of smartwatches could be breached even with very basic technical skills.

In addition, other studies have found security problems with other smart toys with embedded cameras and microphones.

Smart products for consumers, particularly those aimed at children, must have high security and data protection features. How will the Commission ensure that smart products for children are safe and secure and comply with data protection rules?