Bolt
Summary
The Bolt is a programmable learning robot that allows kids to learn to program with its built-in lights and sensors. It comes with light and infrared sensors, a magnetic compass, acceleromator, gyroscope, and a protractor. The robot can be purchased for $149.99.
Breach History
Has there ever been a breach or data leak?
No known hacks or data breaches!
🎉
Privacy Checklist
Is any kind of biometric data collected (health, heart, voice, etc.)?
Are you able to delete your data / the data collected about you?
Does it use cookies, telemetry, or third-party tracking scripts?
Is the privacy policy user-friendly (easy to understand)?
Does it have parental controls?
Does it use encryption to protect your data both in-transit and at-rest?
Does it get regular software and / or firmware updates?
Does it require you to create a strong password?
Is there a system in place for managing security vulnerabilities?
Does it have a privacy policy?
How Can It Snoop?
Does it have a camera or request / require access to a camera?
Does it have a microphone or request / require access to a microphone?
Does it track your location or request / require access to location data?
Account Requirements
Does it require an email address to use?
Does it require a phone number to use?
Does it require an address (home or office) to use?
Payment Options
Are you able to use a credit card as a payment option?
Are you able to use a cryptocurrency as a payment option?
Are you able to use PayPal as a payment option?
Are you able to use cash or gift cards as a payment option?
What Could Go Wrong?
The Bolt is mostly not a risk. The only concern is that if it is used in a school setting, data is shared with teachers and parents, which may or may not be secure. Be aware of this risk when purchasing this product.
How Does It Share Your Data?
Sphero claims it does not share your personal data with third parties for commerical or marketing purposes. However, if Spero Edu is used in school, the child's data is shared with teachers and parents.
Good Things
- Wide variety of programmable options.
- Durable.
- Bug bounty program finds bugs before they can be exploited.
Bad Things
- Requires patience to set up.
Final Thoughts
Sphero provides a great way for your kids to learn how to code. The only situation where you may have to share your child's data is if Sphero is used in school. Besides that, Bolt should not be a risk!