Seven Things You Should Never Ask Your Voice Assistant in an Emergency
3 min read
Voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa have become an integral part of our daily lives. They help us manage our schedules, set reminders, play music, and even answer trivia questions. However, in critical situations, relying on voice assistants for help could lead to disastrous consequences. In this article, we’ll discuss seven things you should never ask your voice assistant in an emergency.
1. Perform CPR
When someone needs CPR, the first step is to call 911. Unfortunately, many people mistakenly believe that asking their voice assistant for instructions on performing CPR is the best course of action. In a recent study, researchers found that only nine of the 32 voice assistants’ responses suggested calling emergency services. Instead, it’s recommended to take a refresher course on CPR or consult the Red Cross website for detailed instructions.
2. Play Doctor
Asking your voice assistant for medical advice, even in non-emergency situations, is a risky proposition. While voice assistants can provide general information, they are not a substitute for a qualified medical professional. Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
3. Harm Someone
Asking your voice assistant for instructions on how to hurt someone, even in a figurative sense, is a dangerous request. Such queries could be used against you if they fall into the wrong hands. It’s essential to avoid making such requests and instead focus on positive and constructive thoughts.
4. Call Emergency Services
While voice assistants can make calls, it’s always best to dial emergency services directly. Dialing 911 takes only a few seconds and ensures that you’re connected to the appropriate emergency response team.
5. Manage Your Money
Voice assistants can connect to your financial apps, but there are significant security risks associated with voice data. Cybercriminals can hack into your phone and use your voice to drain your accounts. It’s recommended to log into your bank’s website or mobile app to manage your finances.
6. “Will I die if I eat this?”
Voice assistants are not reliable sources for information on poisonous foods and plants. There’s conflicting information online, and relying on voice assistant responses could lead to potentially dangerous situations. Always consult a trusted source, such as a medical professional or a reliable online resource, for accurate information.
7. “Get rid of this.”
Asking your voice assistant to delete files, apps, or photos could lead to unintended consequences. It’s always best to delete files and apps manually to ensure that you’re not accidentally deleting important data.
Smart assistants record everything
Voice assistants record and store your interactions, which raises privacy concerns. If you’re uncomfortable with this, you can disable the feature or use alternative methods to manage your data.
Stay smart with your smart assistants!
In conclusion, while voice assistants are convenient tools for managing our daily lives, they should not be relied upon in critical situations. Always remember the seven things you should never ask your voice assistant in an emergency and take the necessary steps to ensure your privacy and security.
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