The National Security Agency is researching ways to collect intelligence, of course, and the latest target is the “Internet of Things,” up to and including biomedical devices like pacemakers, according to NSA deputy director Richard Ledgett during the Defense One summit on Friday.

That blanket term refers to pretty much anything that is internet-connected but not a phone or computer: Thermostats, refrigerators, security cameras, devices like Amazon Echo, and more. These may make your life easier (or sometimes harder), but they also open up additional avenues for hackers and agencies like the NSA to collect data.

 Experts have raised concerns about the security vulnerabilities prevalent these devices before. Many have unencrypted signals, or broadcast their information over unsecured networks, meaning anyone can intercept that data without too much effort. The data gleaned can reveal a lot about you, your habits, your schedule, and who knows what else.

Source: The NSA Wants To Spy On Thermostats, Refrigerators, and Pacemakers