Alexa Is a Bad Dog

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. Just who is man's best friend? Who are these creatures that we've welcomed into our homes--who light up when we call their names, fetch things for us (like news updates and groceries), and make us feel better when we're sad (by putting on Beyoncé and allowing us to order food without even moving)? Unfortunately, it turns out, not just to you. There's a new reason to worry about the fact that your smart device might be listening all the time: She might be listening to someone else.