Parents Warned Against VTech Toys

Cybersecurity experts have issued the warning after the company stated that parents must assume responsibility for future breaches.

18:10 11 February 2016

Cybersecurity experts have warned parents against VTech toys after it has emerged that the company’s new terms and conditions state that parents will be responsible for future breaches.

 

During last year’s hack attack against the company, more than 6.3 million children’s accounts that include photos and chat logs were compromised.

 

Following the issuance of the warning, VTech released a statement saying that it stands by its new terms.

 

A spokeswoman said: "Since learning about the hack of its databases, VTech has worked hard to enhance the security of its websites and services and to safeguard customer information,"

 

"But no company that operates online can provide a 100% guarantee that it won't be hacked.

 

"The Learning Lodge terms and conditions, like the T&Cs for many online sites and services, simply recognise that fact by limiting the company's liability for the acts of third parties such as hackers.

 

"Such limitations are commonplace on the web."

 

Australian security specialist Troy Hunt reacted to the company’s new terms of service and said: "If [VTech] honestly feel they're not up to the task of protecting personal information, then perhaps put that on the box and allow consumers to consciously take their chances rather than implicitly opting into the 'zero accountability' clause."