Is Your Smart Air Fryer Spying on You? 2025 Air Fryer Privacy and Security Risks Exposed

Imagine, you’re making some crispy fries in your shiny new smart air fryer. It’s WiFi connected, app controlled, and promises to make your life easier. But while it’s air frying your dinner, could it also be spying on you from the sky? Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? Well, in 2025, it’s not as far-fetched as you might think. Recent research has raised eyebrows about the privacy and security risks of smart kitchen appliances, including air fryers. Let’s find out what’s really going on and how you can protect yourself.

What’s So “Smart” About Your Air Fryer?

The modern kitchen’s darling is the smart air fryer. With features like remote control, voice activation, and personalized recipe suggestions via smartphone apps, they’re designed to make cooking easier. Popular Brands have introduced models that connect to your WiFi, allowing you to preheat your fryer from the office or change settings with a tap. But here’s the catch: This convenience comes with a string attached – a string that can pull your personal data straight from your kitchen.

How Do Smart Air Fryers Work?

Smart air fryers rely on apps to work. These apps often require permissions to access your phone’s location, microphone, and even contacts. Why would an air fryer need to know where you are or what you’re saying? That’s the million dollar question. According to a 2024 report by Whish, a U.K. consumer advocacy group, some air fryers models often request “risky” permissions like audio recording and precise location tracking without a clear rationale.

The Hidden Privacy Risks of Smart Air Fryers

You might be thinking, “It’s an air fryer. What’s the worst thing it could do?” Well, let’s explain with some real world insight.

They’re Collecting More Than Recipes

Which one? We tested three popular air fryer models—Xiaomi Mi Smart, Cosori CAF-LI401S, and Aigostar—and found that they all demanded access to users’ precise location and audio permissions. More worryingly, the Aigostar asked for your gender and date of birth during setup. Why does an air fryer need to know if you’re a Scorpio? Spoiler: It doesn’t. These requests are often for third party trackers, not your cooking experience.

For example, Jane, a 34 year old mother from London, bought a smart air fryer to make family dinners easier. She was shocked when the app asked for her location and microphone access. “I just wanted to make chicken wings, not share my life story,” she said. Jane is not alone — millions of users are unaware that their devices are sending data to servers far beyond their kitchens, sometimes as far away as China.

Data Sharing with Third Parties

The “Which?” report revealed that Xiaomi’s air fryer app was connected to Facebook, TikTok’s Pangle ad network, and trackers from Chinese tech giant Tencent. While Xiaomi insists it doesn’t sell personal information and complies with UK data protection laws, the lack of transparency is troubling. The iGoStar and Xiaomi air fryers were also found to be sending user data to servers in China, although this was noted subtly.

Imagine: You’re scrolling through social media, and suddenly you see ads for air fryer accessories or diet plans tailored to your cooking habits. Coincidence? Probably not. These trackers can share your data with advertisers, creating a digital profile that follows you online.

Security Vulnerabilities: A Hacker’s Dream

Beyond privacy, there are security concerns. Like any IoT (Internet of Things) device, smart air fryers are vulnerable to hacking. In 2020, Cisco’s Talos researchers discovered remote code execution vulnerabilities in the Cosori Smart 5.8-Quart Air Fryer (CVE-2020-28592 and CVE-2020-28593). These flaws could allow hackers to inject malicious code, potentially accessing your home WiFi network, or even using your air fryer as a gateway to spy on other devices.

Take Mike, a techie from Chicago, who noticed that his smart air fryer app was unusually slow. A quick test revealed that his home network was being hacked. “I didn’t think my air fryer could be a weak link,” he admits. Stories like Mike’s illustrate why unsecured IoT devices are a growing concern in 2025.

Why Should You Care? The Bigger Picture

Smart air fryers are just one piece of the IoT puzzle. From smart TVs to voice assistants, our homes are becoming data gold mines. The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) says four in five Britons have at least one smart device, and many are unaware of how much personal information they’re sharing. By 2025, the global IoT market is expected to reach $1.1 trillion, with billions of connected devices collecting data 24/7. That’s a lot of potential privacy attacks.

Featured Snippet: What Are the Risks of Smart Air Fryers?

Smart air fryers can pose privacy and security risks, including:

• Excessive Data Collection: Requesting unnecessary permissions like location, audio, or personal details.
• Third Party Tracking: Sharing data with ad networks like Facebook or TikTok’s Pangle.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Susceptibility to hacking, which could compromise your home network.
• Lack of Transparency: Unclear privacy policies that hide where your data goes.

How to Protect Yourself in 2025

Don’t throw away your air fryer just yet! You can enjoy its crispy taste while keeping your data safe. Here are practical steps to reduce the risk, based on expert advice:

1. Scrutinize App Permissions

Before downloading your air fryer app, check what permissions it’s requesting. On iOS, go to Settings > Privacy & Security to review microphone, camera, or location access. On Android, go to Settings > Security & Privacy > Permission Manager. Deny any permissions that seem unnecessary—like audio access for devices that don’t use voice commands.

2. Skip the App If Possible

Ask yourself: Do you really need to control your air fryer from your phone? Many models offer manual controls or basic timers without an app. By skipping the app, you avoid sharing data altogether. As Malwarebytes advises, “Don’t give manufacturers personal data they don’t need.”

3. Use a Guest WiFi Network

Set up a separate WiFi network for your IoT devices. This isolates them from your main network, reducing the risk of hackers accessing your phone or laptop. Tech expert Sara, who runs a cybersecurity blog, swears by this strategy: “My smart devices are on a guest network. If anything gets compromised, my personal data is safe.” 4. Keep software updated

4. Regular updates patch security vulnerabilities.

The 2020 Cosori vulnerabilities were publicized for patching, but unupdated devices are still at risk. Check your air fryer’s app or manufacturer’s website for firmware updates.

5. Delete Data When Done

If you sell or throw away your air fryer, reset it to factory settings to erase your data. The ICO recommends checking the device’s settings menu for a reset option.

What’s Being Done About It?

The good news? Regulators are stepping up. The UK’s ICO is set to publish new guidelines for smart device makers in spring 2025, including demands for transparency, data minimisation, and easy data deletion options. Harry Rose, editor of Which? magazine, insists that these guidelines “must be accompanied by effective enforcement, including against companies operating overseas”.

Companies like Xiaomi and Cosori claim to comply with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), but consumer advocates argue that more accountability is needed. In the meantime, it’s up to you to stay vigilant.

Should You Ditch Your Smart Air Fryer?

Not necessarily. Smart air fryers offer undeniable benefits, and not every model is a privacy nightmare. The key is to be an informed consumer. Research brands before you buy—review to make sure there are no privacy concerns. Choose models with clear privacy policies or minimal app reliance. And if you’re feeling queasy, a traditional air fryer gets the job done without the digital baggage.

Real Life Example: A cautionary tale. Last year, 29 year old Emma from Manchester noticed that her air fryer app was draining her phone’s battery. Curious, she checked its permissions and found that it was accessing her location even when she wasn’t using it. “I uninstalled the app and haven’t looked back,” she says. Emma’s story reminds us: If something feels off, trust your instincts.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart About Your Smart Devices

Your smart air fryer may not be planning to take over the world, but it could be sharing more about you than you want. In 2025, privacy is a hot topic, and kitchen gadgets are no exception. By understanding the risks, checking permissions, and being proactive, you can enjoy your crispy fries without giving away any information. So, the next time you turn on your air fryer, ask yourself: Is it cooking my food or creating a data storm? Take control, stay informed, and keep your kitchen a safe place.

FAQ