It might be time to worry more about privacy. When you think about smart home tech that collects data, you probably think of phones or speakers. But most smart appliances collect data too. Consumer Reports found major brands transmit 3.4MB to 19MB of usage data weekly. That includes how often you use appliances, ZIP code, birth date, and location.

Smart fridges track door openings, grocery habits, and calendar items. Washers monitor laundry frequency and fabric types. Kenmore collects power status, door cycles, filter status, and energy usage. LG and Samsung gather basic identifying information like phone numbers. Data is typically encrypted, but what's collected remains unclear.

Privacy policies reveal data is used for personalized advertising and shared with subsidiaries and third-party business partners. Samsung shares with affiliates and partners. LG uses data for direct marketing and business analysis. Bosch collects "touchpoint data" for statistical use.

Overall, data may seem innocuous but is likely used for marketing. You can investigate policies or contact companies, but may never get full clarity. Before connecting smart appliances, read privacy policies to understand what personal and usage information will be collected and shared.