NPR: This Doll May Be Recording What Children Say, Privacy Groups Charge

NPR: This Doll May Be Recording What Children Say, Privacy Groups Charge by Brian Naylor:

It’s called My Friend Cayla. It’s a doll and looks pretty much like most dolls do. She is available in various skin tones and hair colors, and according to her website, she is the smartest toy you’ll ever have. But My Friend Cayla also has some issues. She sings, talks and listens — maybe a little too well.

. . .

Ask her, say, “Can I tell you a secret?” And the doll responds: “Sure go ahead; be very quiet, though. I promise not to tell anyone; it’s just between you and me because we are friends.”

But Gartland says anything that’s said to Cayla isn’t really secret at all. If the doll is connected to a smartphone — as it’s designed to be — that information can be sent to the toy’s makers.

“There’s all kinds of intimate details of their personal life, their parents’ personal lives. We know how kids at younger ages don’t necessarily have the same social filter,” Gartland says, “so these children could be chattering on about anything, really.”