Understanding perceptions of smart devices

Abstract

We explored perceptions regarding the value and sensitivity of the data collected by a variety of everyday smart devices. Via semi-structured interviews, we found that people’s conceptualizations of operational details and privacy and security threats of “smart” functions are greatly limited. Our findings point to the need for designs that readily enable users to separate the physical and digital aspects of device operation and call for further exploration of the design space of privacy and security controls and indicators for smart devices.