Why Chatbots Are Unsafe for Home Security Advice
While AI technology is incredibly useful in the smart home, from identifying packages to finding lost toys, using conversational AI for home security advice is a different story. I put ChatGPT to the test on home safety, and the results showed just how dangerous relying on it can be. Generative AI is great at summarizing information, but even the best models can hallucinate, cite wrong information, or get stumped by current events. Here’s what happens when you trust AI with your safety.
The Danger of AI's Factual Errors
Asking a chatbot about specific security tech is a gamble. A popular story on Reddit detailed how a chat AI incorrectly told a user their Tesla could access their 'home security systems.' This is simply not true and is likely an AI hallucination based on Tesla's HomeLink service for opening garage doors. These kinds of 'hallucinations' make it hard to trust the details AI provides. When I asked ChatGPT a similar question, it didn't repeat the mistake but completely omitted features like HomeLink, meaning you still don't get the full picture. This misinformation can lead to unfounded privacy fears and poor decision-making.
When Seconds Count AI Fails in Real-Time Emergencies
ChatGPT and other large language models struggle to process real-time information, which is especially noticeable during natural disasters like wildfires or hurricanes. As a hurricane was approaching, I asked ChatGPT if my home was in danger. The chatbot couldn't provide any real advice, only suggesting I consult local weather channels and emergency services. When your home and safety are on the line, don't waste precious time with an AI. Instead, turn to reliable sources like weather apps, software like Watch Duty, up-to-date satellite imagery, and local news broadcasts.
Outdated and Incomplete Can You Trust AI on Brand Safety
It would be great if an AI could summarize a brand's security history, but they aren't capable of this yet. You can't trust what they say about security companies. For example, when I asked ChatGPT if Ring had security breaches, it mentioned past incidents but failed to note they occurred before 2018 and missed key developments like the recent payout to affected customers and a 2024 policy reversal that better protects user data.
When I asked about Wyze, a brand that experts have raised concerns about, ChatGPT called it a 'good option' but only mentioned a 2019 data breach. It completely missed major vulnerabilities and data exposures in 2022, 2023, and 2024. This outdated summary gives a false and dangerous impression of a brand's current safety.
The Hidden Costs AIs Vague Stance on Subscriptions
Many people want to know if a security device requires a subscription. This is another area where chatbots are no help. I asked ChatGPT if Reolink cameras need a subscription, and it gave a uselessly vague response, saying some features might need a plan while basic ones don't. It couldn't provide any specifics, even when asked about a particular model. These answers are worthless for budgeting or making a purchase decision. A quick visit to Reolink's own subscriptions page clearly shows the different subscription tiers, costs, and features. You'll get real numbers to work with in less time than it takes to query a chatbot.
Protecting Your Data The Ultimate AI Privacy Warning
One last, crucial point: never give a chatbot your personal information. Don't share your home address, your name, your living situation, or any payment details. AIs like ChatGPT have had bugs before that allowed other users to see private conversations. Furthermore, their privacy policies can be vague, potentially allowing them to profile you or sell your data. Be careful what you ask and how you phrase it. If you think you've already shared too much online, you can learn how to remove your address from the internet.
