Tips to protect your kids’ smart toys from hackers

Could your child’s teddy bear be spying on you? With internet-connected ‘smart toys’ increasingly common, fears are growing hackers could use kids’ playthings as a backdoor into your house. Here’s how to stop them...

1. Tablets: Hackers might try to access you or your child’s information using malware, so make sure the device has the latest anti-virus software installed, such as Avast Mobile Security and Antivirus and Lookout Antivirus and Security. 2. Smart Dolls or other playthings: When registering the toy, check what data it is sharing with the toy maker. A teddy bear company should not need to know your location or other private details. 3. ‘Starter’ home computers: Again scrutinise the small print — what is the manufacturer doing with your child’s personal data. If it is sharing the information with third parties to “improve” the product, think twice about whether you wish to give your permission.

4. Other smart toys: If a toy has smart features, do some research beforehand. Have there been data breaches or reports of malware infection? If so, think carefully about the risks.