Members of the House voted 406-12 to pass the Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act, which would give the Federal Trade Commission the power to force the designers of internet-connected devices to disclose whether recording hardware is installed into smart devices. The devices affected include smart appliances such as televisions and refrigerators but not mobile phones, laptops, or other devices in which the owner reasonably expects to see recording devices.
"We should be allowed to make informed decisions about the electronic eavesdroppers we invite into our homes," Rep. Seth Moulton said."But we can't do it if Big Tech hides microphones and cameras that are always listening in refrigerators, toasters, and other household gadgets. Let's pass this bill so consumers know when Big Tech is listening in.
How about smart phones?