Bill to Protect Smart Device Users from Being Involuntarily Recorded Introduced by House Republican Whip Steve Scalise from Louisiana

National / Washington D.C. / Louisiana — On July 27, 2022, House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) introduced the Earning Approval of Voiced External Sound Databasing Retained on People (EAVESDROP) Act, which would require smart device manufacturers to notify consumers if their devices record unsolicited conversations other than when consumers ask their devices to listen or perform a task, and to give consumers the option to opt-out of that capability. This legislation gives Americans more control over smart home gadgets and forces manufacturers to be more upfront about what their devices do and the data they collect.

“Consumers have a right to know whether their conversations are being recorded in the privacy of their homes. They shouldn’t have to fear that their smart devices are recording and collecting sensitive personal information without their consent. Big Tech must be more transparent with the American public about the capabilities of their devices. I’m proud today to introduce the EAVESDROP Act to give consumers more control over their privacy, especially as more electronic devices are listening to their conversations,” said Whip Scalise.

More information about the EAVESDROP Act:

• Mandates manufacturers of smart devices to disclose if any information is gathered on an individual through the recording of ambient noise and, if so, what types of information have been collected, how long that information is retained, if that information is sold to third parties, and whether the recording of ambient noise can be deactivated.
• Gives consumers the power to opt-out of their devices’ ability to record ambient noise.
• Limits the amount of information that is gathered to purposes that are only necessary for the function of the device.
• Gives consumers valuable tools to better understand the capabilities of smart devices and offers individuals more control over their information.
• Puts American families first by holding Big Tech accountable and protects consumers from the overreach of artificial intelligence.