It seems that no matter where you go, something’s tracking you. Your phone’s GPS keeps tabs on you, security cameras have footage of you and even doorbell camerascan turn neighborhoods into surveillance networks.
What is Sidewalk?
Sidewalk turns your Echo speakers and Ring gadgets into bridge devices. That gives internet-connected tech far from your router, like lights at the edge of your driveway, a real boost. How exactly does that work? Sidewalk uses a “small portion” of your internet bandwidth to pass low-energy Bluetooth connections and 900 MHz radio signals across all those connected devices. The list of devices includes Ring’s Floodlight Cam, Spotlight Cam Wired and Spotlight Cam Mount from 2019 or later, along with most Echo models (including the Dot, Plus, Show, Dot for Kids and Studio) made after 2016. Like what you’re reading? Get a great tech tip like this one delivered to your inbox every day. Sign up now while you’re thinking of it. Think of this as a smart Sidewalk-enabled neighborhood, borrowing bandwidth from you and your neighbors. The more households that join this network, the bigger it gets. We want better Wi-Fi, and it’s annoying when our connected devices don’t work. You don’t want your outdoor lights, motion sensors or security cameras going offline. It’s truly not very much. If 10 minutes a month can boost my connected devices, that sounds great. But wait, there’s more.
Is Sidewalk secure?
They might say that, but many individual smart gadgets aren’t great when it comes to cybersecurity. All it takes is one compromised device for a hacker to get into your network. Ultimately, your tech will be connected to a network you can’t control. Bottom line: It may very well be secure, but the Internet of Things is notorious for insecure devices and no updates. There is no standard. I wouldn’t trust it.
My advice: Opt-out and here’s how
Not every compatible device will have access to Sidewalk yet. Check to see if Sidewalk is already enabled using the Alexa app on your phone.
A few more privacy checks
Echo speakers use plenty of personal data even if Sidewalk is disabled. To do a deep-dive in your Echo’s privacy settings, use our guide to show you the most important options you need to address. Tap or click here to set up Alexa with the best privacy settings you need.
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