How does a robot vacuum work?

Robot vacuums are among the first widespread robots that support us in our everyday lives in a more or less automated way. Once such a vacuuming and cleaning aid has been set up and programmed, it starts moving on its own, manoeuvres around various obstacles and even finds its way back to the charging station.

But you should be clear in advance: In order to ensure the most efficient and thorough cleaning of the floors, the robot vacuum cleaner must be able to orient itself in the room. This is essentially done by a multitude of sensors. For this purpose, special cameras can be used to recognise objects and achieve an optimised cleaning result by mapping the floor surface. The resulting data must then be processed and - in part - stored. This can be done in a cloud. For that purpose and for convenient control - even while on the move - the vast majority of robot vacuums are internet-capable and can be controlled via app or voice.

Before buying a robot vacuum

Prospective buyers should ask themselves: What additional functions are important to me? Some additional functions, such as more sensors, also generate additional data. If you want to avoid that altogether, you can use the device exclusively offline. In this case, it does not connect to the internet and therefore does not transmit any data. However, some functions, for example control via smartphone, require an internet connection. You should then select a device that is as safe as possible. However, a look at independent, reputable online product tests is often sobering, as mainly prices and functions are listed. Targeted enquiries therefore help.

These questions, among others, can help you decide on a safe device:

• How long will software updates be available for the device?
• Are additional components such as an accompanying smartphone app necessary for control or installation?
• What access rights do the apps require from users?
• What rights do I waive when I install and use a companion app?
• What data does the app collect?
• What information can be derived from it?
• What happens to the data that is generated?
• Where does the app send this data? Is it shared with other apps?
• Where is the data stored or processed?
• In the case of cloud storage: Where are the cloud operator's servers located? To which legal basis is he thereby bound?
• Do I only want to use the robot vaccum offline?

Safety Settings for Robot Vacuums

Even if some manufacturers have built in good security features, consumers themselves are responsible for the correct settings of their own internet-enabled devices. After all, no matter how high-quality a robot vacuum cleaner from a supposedly reputable manufacturer is, it will not protect you if, for example, your home network or Wi-Fi router is inadequately secured. The smartphone on which an accompanying app for the robot vacuum cleaner is used should also be up to date.

A networked device that can map the 3D environment, collect and process camera and microphone data can sometimes inadvertently transmit data or be compromised from the outside and subsequently controlled by a third party. Robot vacuums that have a permanent internet connection offer a constant potential attack surface. In general, robot vacuums do not necessarily have to be connected to the internet, but offline use is often associated with a restriction of function and comfort.

How to set up the robot vacuum safely

• If offline use of the robot vacuum is not desired or networking of the device is indispensable, a guest network should be set up for the device in the home WLAN.
• The data protection settings should be checked and - if possible - changed according to personal needs.
• If the robot vacuum is not used or you are absent for a longer period of time, the robot should be switched off and disconnected from the internet.
• If the corresponding smartphone app requires a password, password rules should be observed.
• Finally, appropriate security settings should also be set on any peripheral devices used, such as the WLAN router . Devices such as the smartphone or tablet should also be kept up to date through regular updates, among other things.