Vacuum Robot Security and Privacy: Preventing Data Collection from Smart Home Devices

Learn how to protect your privacy and secure your smart vacuum robots in this DEF CON 31 conference talk. Explore the evolution of vacuum robot security from basic sensor exploitation to modern AI-powered devices with cameras and microphones. Discover methods for gaining root access to flagship models from multiple vendors, understand the privacy implications of cloud-connected devices, and learn practical techniques for preventing data breaches. Gain insights into documenting vacuum robots, developing custom software, and maintaining device ownership through proper security measures. Master the technical aspects of robot security including boot processes, bootloader modifications, and camera systems while understanding the risks associated with both new and used devices. Delve into the challenges of maintaining privacy in an era where household robots increasingly rely on sophisticated sensors and AI technology for navigation and object recognition.