Germany bans talking doll Cayla over hacking and data leak concerns, orders doll taken off shelves

Briefing

Germany bans talking doll Cayla over hacking and data leak concerns, orders doll taken off shelves

February 23, 2017

Briefing

  • Talking Doll Ban – German authorities ban distribution of U.S. made talking doll, named Cayla, in Germany, ordering doll removed from retail shelves
  • Cayla Features – Can answer questions and play games using Bluetooth and Internet connection, along with speech-to-text technology
  • Hacking Concerns – Can be breached easily through unsecure Bluetooth connection, opening door for potential hacking and spying on children
  • Privacy Groups' Complaints – Filed with U.S. Federal Trade Commission on December 6, 2016, alleging that Cayla maker Genesis Toys and partner Nuance recorded and transmitted children’s voices without permission

Market Disruption

Sector

Consumer Durables, Wholesale and Retail Trade

Organization

Genesis Toys, Nuance Communications Inc.

Source

Original Publication Date

February 17, 2017

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