Sharing smart home access with friends or family can be super convenient,but it also opens up a can of ethical worms. Before granting access to your connected devices, itS worth seriously considering the privacy implications for everyone involved, including yourself.
For example, think about smart cameras. If you give someone access who isn’t aware of where those cameras record, they could unknowingly share video footage that compromises your privacy or that of other household members. It’s essential to explicitly communicate which devices they have access to and, crucially, what those devices are actually capable of recording or monitoring. Are you tracking energy usage patterns they now have visibility into? Are voice recordings being stored that they can now access?
Ultimately, clear communication and mutual respect are key. Have open conversations with anyone you’re granting access to about your expectations, their intentions, and any limitations you want to set. Maybe create a shared understanding or “house rules” for smart home usage. It could save a lot of potential awkwardness, or even damage to relationships, down the line.