Ryze Tello Drone
Summary
The Ryze Tello is an entry-level drone that is capable of taking low-end HD video and pictures. It can be controlled with an app on your phone and flies for about 13 minutes on one charge. The Tello may be a good choice for the casual user, but has some known security issues that may be a problem for more dedicated users. The drone can be purchased for $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?
Risk of data being compromised by this product is low given it is encrypted and only sends data to your phone. However, there is a community of hackers dedicated to hacking drones per the bug bounty program, which would give them access to the drone's camera. Keep in mind that the camera can be compromised before you purchase this product.
How Does It Share Your Data?
The drone does not seem to collect much data in itself. However, it does make use of a camera, so if someone were to hack into the drone they would have access to that footage.
Good Things
- Inexpensive.
- Regular security updates.
Bad Things
- Drone camera could be hacked.
- The drone is extremely unstable in windy weather.
- Short range.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Tello Drone does not seem have any serious privacy concerns. The drone does not collect much user data, so it would not contain much information capable of being stolen. However, if the drone were to be hacked, the hacker would be able to view camera footage obtained by the drone. This is an unlikely possibility, but it is something to be aware of before purchasing.