Page 87 - Cyber Warnings August 2017

brings some serious privacy concerns and poses the start to many questions by both data
privacy attorneys and consumers:

1. What does my Roomba Show?

iRobot’s success is nothing to question, as the concept of a “smart vacuum” gained popularity
as a result of its ability to clean and essentially “remember” where to clean and how to cover an
entire room. Indeed, the device’s ability to remember where it’s been and where to clean is

dependent upon its mapping data it stores. But what does this “data” consist of? The later
models of the Roomba offer the “Clean Maps” report, which allows users through the iRobot app
identify and view cleaning coverage areas as well as concentrated areas where there is a higher
presence of dirt. Pretty sweet. Or so it appears to seem.

2. Who is Storing Your Home’s Map Data?
Privacy enthusiasts would agree that consumers should know exactly what information and data

they have, where it’s located, and how to keep it safe. The possibility of a consumer’s data of
his or her home being in the possession of a party other than them is beyond alarming.
However, Angle has indicated that “no data is sold to third parties.”

3. Why Are Consumers Just Being Told This Now?
Technically, the idea that the entryways, hallways, and floors of a consumer’s home is being
mapped and analyzed is no secret, at least per iRobot’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

• Some of our Robots are equipped with smart technology which allows the Robots to

transmit data wirelessly to the Service. For example, the Robot could collect and
transmit information about the Robot’s function and use statistics, such as battery life
and health, number of missions, the device identifier, and location mapping.

• We use this information to collect and analyze statistics and usage data, diagnose and
fix technology problems, enhance device performance, and improve user experience.

• Our Robots do not transmit this information unless you register your device online and
connect to WiFi, Bluetooth, or connect to the internet via another method

The company’s Privacy Policy specifically states that it may share consumer data... “with [their]
consent, to third parties who [it] think[s] may offer [the consumer] products or services [they
might] enjoy”...or.. “other parties in connection with any company transaction, such as a merger,

sale of all or a portion of company assets or shares, reorganization, financing, change of control
or acquisition of all or a portion of our business by another company or third party or in the event
of bankruptcy or related or similar proceedings.” That’s a fairly large number of people knowing

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