Eiliko robot toy uploads user chats to Chinese servers, The Verge reports

The Verge reports today that Eiliko, a Wi-Fi connected robot pet, stores user conversations on servers in China. The finding raises immediate privacy and child-safety concerns as the toy records chats and mood-related interactions. According to The Verge, those uploads could be vulnerable to hacking, putting highly personal data at risk.

Marketed as a cute digital companion that mirrors emotions, Eiliko’s AI logs what users tell it and phones home whenever it is online, The Verge says. Security researchers and parents are likely to question cross-border data practices, while retailers may reassess listings today if the company cannot guarantee protections. We are seeking comment from the maker on storage practices, retention, and any planned fixes, and will watch for retailer actions or regulatory inquiries. [Developing. This article will be updated.]