Sex toys are increasingly marketed as safe, smart, and body-friendly products. Many now come with mobile apps, cloud features, and personalized settings. But a new consumer investigation suggests that some of these devices may come with hidden risks that buyers rarely expect.
A joint test by Austria’s consumer watchdog Verein für Konsumenteninformation (VKI) and Germany’s Stiftung Warentest has raised concerns about data privacy and chemical safety in several sex toys sold across Europe.
What Was Tested and Why It Matters
The consumer organizations tested 18 sex toys available in Austria, covering a broad range of popular product types and price levels.
The selection included vibrators, dildos, male masturbators, and anal plugs, priced between 20 and 209 euros.
Instead of focusing only on comfort and workmanship, the test examined two less visible but highly sensitive areas:
- How app-controlled sex toys collect and share user data
- Whether the materials used could pose health risks during long-term use
This broader approach reflects how intimate products have changed in recent years, becoming both technological devices and physical consumer goods.
One of the most striking results involved data transmission from app-connected sex toys. According to the test, three products sent usage-related data to their manufacturers.
The transmitted information included usage patterns, device identifiers, and user-related technical data. Among the products involved were devices from Lelo and Svakom, both well-known international brands.
A particularly critical case was the Lovense Lush 4 vibrator. Its companion app was found to forward data to ChatGPT, meaning sensitive information was shared beyond the manufacturer’s own systems. Because of this, the product received a “not satisfactory” rating in the test.
VKI experts warn that many users are unaware of how much personal information is generated during use—and where that data may end up.
Chemical Findings Raise Health Questions
The investigation also uncovered chemical concerns. Two products contained Nonylphenol, a substance suspected of interfering with the human hormone system.
The affected items were:
- A dildo produced by Pipedream
- A male masturbator from Fleshlight
While the detected levels were below EU legal limits, consumer advocates point out that sex toys are used repeatedly and come into direct contact with sensitive areas of the body. Even low concentrations could become relevant with long-term exposure.
Five Products Failed the Test
Out of the 18 tested products, five were classified as problematic due to either data privacy issues or chemical findings.
The remaining products showed no major violations but still highlighted differences in transparency and consumer information.
The results suggest that not all risks are immediately visible on the packaging and that well-known brand names do not automatically guarantee higher safety standards.
VKI recommends a more cautious approach when buying intimate products, especially smart devices.
Key suggestions include:
- Choosing sex toys that function without mandatory apps
- Reading privacy policies before installing companion software
- Avoiding unnecessary connectivity features
- Paying attention to material declarations and certifications
According to consumer advocates, many smart features offer convenience but little real benefit compared to the potential privacy trade-offs.
A Growing Market With Growing Responsibility
The sex toy market continues to expand, driven by technology and normalization. As these products become more advanced, consumer protection groups argue that privacy and health standards must keep pace.
This latest test serves as a reminder that intimacy and safety should go hand in hand. For consumers, informed choices are becoming just as important as comfort or design.