German doll ban illustrates flaws in product safety regulation

17. februar, 2017

The German telecom regulator has banned the Internet connected toy Cayla. It is, however, regrettable that EU laws are insufficient when it comes to digital privacy and security issues.

The Norwegian Consumer Council applauds Germany for banning the internet connected doll Cayla, based on the evidence that Cayla poses a threat to privacy and security. It is, however, regrettable that EU laws are insufficient when it comes to digital privacy and security issues, which has resulted in Germany using a punitive espionage article that could see unwitting owners of Cayla fined with up to €25 000

– We are calling for EU wide rules fit for the age of connected devices, not only covering traditional issues such as choking, crash injuries, and chemicals but also digital threats, says Finn Lützow-Holm Myrstad, director of Digital Policy at the Norwegian Consumer Council.

The Norwegian Consumer Council originally published the research that led to the ban in Germany. Walmart and Toys’R’us US have both stopped the sale of Cayla across the US.

– In the meantime, Cayla is still being sold across Europe, including in countries such as the United Kingdom and Norway. Toy manufacturers, distributors and stores should take their ethical responsibilities and the precautionary principles more seriously when basic violations of privacy and security are uncovered, says Myrstad.

More about the connected toys report and formal complaint.

Watch how the toys fail