Warning: *privacy not included with this product
Kobo eReaders
Want an e-reader but don't want to be tied to Amazon and Amazon's book store? Want something that also supports open source book files (which Amazon's e-readers don't do)? Toronto-based Kobo makes a series of e-readers perfect for you! Their low-end e-readers get the job done without any bells or whistles, and their higher-end e-readers include features like expanded storage--so you can store all those free and open source titles--and water resistance--for all you bathtub and beach readers, and even a ebook you can write on with stylus. Good deal!
What could happen if something goes wrong?
While it is nice to have an e-reader option that is not tied to Amazon and all the data Amazon collects, it doesn't mean you're off the hook when it comes to data collection with Kobo's e-readers. Kobe says they may sell your online identifiers and information about your online activity. That’s bad. Kobo may also share your personal information with third parties for marketing and other purposes. And, we're not sure you can even delete the data they collect on you if you live outside of California in the US or the European Economic Area where special privacy regulations are in place. Kobo says you can request that data they have on you be corrected but there is no mention of any way to delete your data in their privacy policy. Hard to believe, but Kobo makes Amazon sound kinda OK when it comes to how they handle your personal data.
Tips to protect yourself
- Kobo recommends changing your password regularly.
Security
A.I.
Can it snoop on me?
Camera
Device: No
App: N/A
Microphone
Device: No
App: N/A
Tracks location
Device: Yes
App: N/A
What can be used to sign up?
Yes
Phone
No
Third-party account
Yes
What data does the company collect?
Personal
Name, email, phone number, gender, date of birth
Body related
Social
How does the company use this data?
How can you control your data?
What is the company’s known track record of protecting users’ data?
No known incidents in the last 3 years.
Can this product be used offline?
User-friendly privacy information?
Links to privacy information
Does this product meet our Minimum Security Standards?
Encryption
Strong password
Security updates
Manages vulnerabilities
Privacy policy
Does the product use AI?
Is this AI untrustworthy?
What kind of decisions does the AI make about you or for you?
Is the company transparent about how the AI works?
Does the user have control over the AI features?
Comments
Got a comment? Let us hear it.