Risk Mitigation Strategies for Mobile Wi-Fi Robot Toys from Online Pedophiles

Because of their built-in cameras, microphones, speakers and mobile capabilities, all of which can be controlled remotely, mobile Wi-Fi robot toys can pose a risk to families with children when used remotely, an attribute that can be exploited by online pedophiles who want to exploit young children online. First, this paper provides a brief background on online pedophiles. Second, it presents the characteristics of the mobile Wi-Fi toys and explains why these characteristics deserve attention. Third, it provides four scenarios to illustrate the potential threats created by these robot toys. And for the conclusion, this paper proposes risk mitigation solutions to the toy companies and to the consumers.