Smart Devices and Privacy: Voice Data Technology

Have you ever thought that your smartphone or a similar smart device is listening to you? Did a conversation you had suddenly turn into an ad in front of you? A leaked sales presentation from a major advertising media company confirms such suspicions.

The digital marketing service Cox Media Group (CMG), which has partnered with giants like Google, Facebook’s Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon, highlights a striking technology in this leaked presentation. According to the presentation, the technology used to monitor and actively listen is called “Voice Data.” CMG explains how this data can be used by businesses to target advertisements more effectively. In other words, our phones are indeed listening to us and sharing what they hear with advertisers.

This situation makes us think that a smart device is listening to us during conversations about our weekend plans, how much we need to renovate our kitchen, or which SUV model is most suitable for our family. Subsequently, relevant ads start appearing on our digital devices: “Are you going to buy a new SUV? The super SUV is here! Hurry and get it now.“

Every sentence that comes out of your mouth can turn into an advertisement. This constant listening situation once again raises the issue of people’s privacy. Why is all our private life, the inside of our homes, and our conversations constantly recorded on technology companies’ servers? These questions have led to discussions about privacy and security in today’s world.

As a result, alongside the conveniences provided by smart devices, we must not overlook our concerns about privacy violations and the use of personal data. At this stage of technology, it is vital for users to be aware and to take steps to protect their privacy.