Popular Mechanics: A Microwave Can't Spy on You—But Plenty of Other Appliances Can
Eavesdropping appliances are a real threat, even if the microwave probably isn't among the culprits.
Is that Panasonic eavesdropping on you while it pops the popcorn? Trump spokesperson Kellyane Conway has been catching some flak today for saying microwaves can be used as spy cameras and that this fact is common knowledge. The quote came out as part of an interview with the Bergen Record, in part regarding President Trump's evidence-free Twitter accusations that President Obama wiretapped the Trump campaign.
As Conway put it:
There was an article that week that talked about how you can surveil people through their phones, through their — certainly through their television sets, any number of different ways. And microwaves that turn into cameras, et cetera. We know that is just a fact of modern life.
Conway has since come out to say that her remarks refer to the high-tech world of surveillance in general and not any specific accusations. And yeah, the bit about the spy microwave is silly. But the ridiculousness of it distracts us from an otherwise true and useful reminder: We are all constantly surrounded by stuff that can spy on us.
Read more ....
Update: Kellyanne Conway says she is 'not Inspector Gadget' or 'in job of having evidence' after microwave comments (The Independent)
WNU editor: She is wrong on microwaves .... they are not smart devices. But the high-tech world of surveillance is massive, and there are many devices out there that can be manipulated to spy on us.
4 comments:
Maybe they can't now but she has just provided a requirement for future development of microwaves that will be worked on and available in maybe three months.
If something is a 'connected' device, it can and will be used for surveillance in some way. Microwaves included, as dumb as that may sound.
Smart Microwaves:
- http://iotlist.co/posts/maid-smart-microwave-oven
- https://juneoven.com/the-oven
- https://www.engadget.com/2005/03/03/lg-lifestyle-mg-5682nl-internet-ready-microwave-oven/
Like I said above, if it's 'connected' it will be used. You may not be able to think of a way how, but they have.
Conway was making a generalization and it triggered a Media freakout. As usual.
Samsung makes a "smart" refrigerator. They call it the Family Hub. WiFi enabled, internal cameras and a touch screen panel. Can even communicate with grocery order-takers.
/a great idea!
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