Frying or spying? These air fryers may be harvesting your data, experts say

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- An appliance known for frying might actually be spying.

Experts say certain air fryers and other app-connected appliances are harvesting users' data.

A recent report from a consumer watchdog group claims popular fryers from Aigostar and Xiaomi are not only sharing data with companies like Facebook and TikTok, but also storing users' data on Chinese servers.

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Some experts even speculate that the devices are recording conversations.

"The Chinese companies, when you load in their application, they're effectively asking for access to your microphone. Now they've produced a few excuses as to why they've asked. They're asking for this information, but it's very, very suspect," said Scott Spiro, cybersecurity expert and co-founder of SugarShot.

Experts say to do your research on a company's data collection practices, read reviews and when downloading the app, limit as many permissions you can as possible.