Thanks to Delaware Senator Chris Coons we recently learned that Amazon keeps Alexa transcripts and voice recordings indefinitely and only removes them if they’re manually deleted by users. Maybe.

While the company is engaged in an “ongoing effort to ensure those transcripts do not remain in any of Alexa’s other storage systems,” there are still records from some conversations with Alexa that Amazon won’t delete, even if people remove the audio.

In addition, Alexa also retains all purchase requests, reminders, and alarms.

Wow!

You, the user, must take the extra step to delete this data – and even if you do – Amazon doesn’t always follow through.

Despite reports by cnet and other tech sites, this news flew under the radar when reported last Tuesday – two days before Independence Day.

Smart Technology

As cnet points out, voice assistants aren’t the only cause for privacy concerns. Any smart home device – locks, doorbells, or appliances – can potentially collect and share your data. Be aware that the price you pay for convenience may mean sacrificing privacy.

All Rights Reserved 2019 Beverly Michaelis