How to Protect Your Privacy on Smart Displays: Tips and Tools

19 December 2025

Smart displays are hands-down one of the coolest additions to any modern home. They let you control your smart devices, stream content, video chat with friends, view calendar reminders, and even check the weather—all hands-free. From Amazon Echo Show to Google Nest Hub, these gadgets are basically like your personal assistant with a screen.

But here’s the kicker: as awesome as they are, smart displays can also be one of the sneakiest privacy invaders in your home. Yep, having a camera, microphone, and constant internet connection means your smart display might be a little too smart for comfort.

So, let’s not beat around the bush. If you’ve got a smart display (or are thinking about getting one), it’s time to take your privacy seriously. In this article, we’re going to break down how to protect your privacy on smart displays—with actionable tips, simple tools, and smart habits.

Let’s dive in.

Why Privacy on Smart Displays Matters

You wouldn’t leave your door open at night, right? So why leave your digital door wide open?

Smart displays can collect a ton of personal information—like your voice commands, video calls, habits, and even what time you leave for work. This might not sound like a big deal, but when you think about hackers, data-hungry corporations, and even nosy guests, it should raise a few eyebrows.

Your data is valuable. Companies want it, cybercriminals will exploit it, and even smart assistants can misinterpret it.

Being proactive about your privacy isn’t paranoia—it’s plain smart.

Tip #1: Disable the Camera and Microphone (When You're Not Using Them)

It might sound obvious, but this is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do.

Most smart displays come with a physical switch to turn off the camera and mic. Use it. If your device has a shutter for the camera, slide it shut when not in use. Some displays even let you mute the mic by voice (“Hey Google, mute the microphone”), but a manual button is always more secure.

> Pro tip: Create a habit of muting your device when you’re having sensitive conversations or during video calls you don’t want the device to “accidentally” listen in on.

Tip #2: Dive into Privacy Settings (Seriously—Check Them All)

This is the digital equivalent of checking all the locks on your doors. Don’t just rely on default settings—they’re usually wide open.

Here’s what you can do:

- Review voice recordings – Go to your Google or Amazon privacy dashboard and delete stored audio clips.
- Limit data collection – Disable Web & App Activity or similar settings that send your data to the cloud.
- Turn off personalized ads – These use your information to target you. Say no.
- Manage third-party apps – Delete any skills or apps you don’t recognize or use frequently.

Set aside 15 minutes. Go through every tab in your smart display’s privacy or settings menu. You might be surprised at what’s turned on by default.

Tip #3: Keep Software and Firmware Up to Date

Imagine leaving your front door lock broken and just hoping no one notices. That’s what it’s like using outdated firmware.

Manufacturers roll out updates for a reason—often to patch security holes. A device with old firmware is pretty much an open invitation to hackers.

Make sure automatic updates are enabled. If not, set a reminder to manually check for them every month. Better safe than sorry.

Tip #4: Put the Device in a Smart Location

Where you place your smart display matters more than you might think.

Don't plop it in your bedroom (unless you’re 100% sure it can’t record without permission). Also avoid putting it where it can accidentally overhear private conversations—like near the dining room table during family dinners or in a home office where sensitive work calls happen.

Aim for common areas like the kitchen or hallway. And always make sure the camera isn’t pointing toward places you wouldn’t want to be recorded.

Tip #5: Use Guest Mode or Device Locking Features

Worried about house guests snooping through your smart display? You’ve got options.

Many smart displays include guest mode, which restricts what people can access without your voice match or PIN. Some also let you lock the screen or protect settings with a passcode.

It’s a simple move, but it keeps your schedule, messages, and smart home controls private from prying eyes.

Tip #6: Delete Voice and Activity History Regularly

Think of this like cleaning out your browser history, but for your smart assistant. Every command, question, or interaction is often stored on cloud servers.

To wipe that slate clean:

- Amazon Echo Show: Use the Alexa app -> More -> Settings -> Alexa Privacy
- Google Nest Hub: Open Google Home app -> Your Account -> My Activity

You can also tell your device things like “Delete everything I said today.” Nice and easy.

Want to go one step further? Set up auto-deletion for every 3 or 18 months.

Tip #7: Use Encrypted Wi-Fi and Strong Passwords

Your smart display is only as secure as your network. If someone hacks your Wi-Fi, they basically have a front-row seat to your smart home.

Here’s how to lock it down:

- Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password (no “password123” nonsense).
- Change the default router login credentials (admin/admin won’t cut it).
- Enable WPA3 encryption (or at least WPA2 if WPA3 isn't available).
- Consider setting up a guest network for visitors and non-essential devices.

This is your digital fortress—make sure the moat is deep and the drawbridge is secure.

Tip #8: Disable Drop-In and Camera Calling Features If You Don't Use Them

Amazon's “Drop-In” feature lets people instantly start a video call with your Echo Show—no ringing, no permission, just boom, video chat.

While that might sound handy, it can get creepy fast. Unless you trust everyone who has Drop-In access with your privacy, just turn it off.

For Amazon Echo:
- Open the Alexa app -> Devices -> Echo & Alexa -> Your Device -> Communications -> Drop-In

For Google Nest:
- Review your Duo calling and video permissions under your Google account settings.

Tip #9: Choose Products From Privacy-Focused Companies

Not all tech giants are created equal when it comes to privacy. Do some homework before buying a new smart display.

Look at:

- The company’s history with data protection;
- How transparent they are about what data they collect;
- Whether they give you tools to delete or control your information.

Companies like Apple, for example, often emphasize user privacy more than others. Google and Amazon have improved a lot, but still collect significant user data by default.

Hey, your money is a vote. Spend it where your privacy is respected.

Tip #10: Use a Smart Power Strip or Voice-Activated Plug

Want the ultimate control over your smart display? Cut the power.

A smart plug or power strip lets you easily turn the device on or off using your phone or voice command. It’s simple: no juice, no risk.

This is especially handy at night or when you’re not home for extended periods. Why let it sit there listening when you don't need it?

Bonus Tip: Use a VPN for Your Entire Network

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts internet traffic and adds a layer of protection between your devices and prying eyes.

While most smart displays don't let you install a VPN directly, you can set it up on your router. That way, all devices on your network—including the smart display—benefit from encrypted traffic.

It’s like giving your smart home an invisibility cloak.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Sometimes your smart display might be giving off sketchy vibes. Here’s what to look out for:

- It lights up randomly when you haven’t said anything.
- You hear clicks or unexpected noises from the speaker.
- Battery drain or increased data usage from your Wi-Fi network.

If something feels off, trust your gut. Check the settings, look for software updates, and if problems persist, contact the manufacturer or consider a factory reset.

Final Thoughts

Let’s be real—smart displays aren’t going away anytime soon. They’re useful, fun, and getting smarter by the day. But with that convenience comes a hidden cost: your privacy.

The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.

With a few smart tweaks and tools, you can enjoy all the perks of your smart display without turning your home into a surveillance hub. Start small. Tweak your settings, cover up that camera, and double-check your permissions.

Privacy isn’t a feature—it’s a habit. One that pays off every time you say, “Hey Google,” or “Alexa,” and know your secrets aren’t going further than your living room.