Terms.Law › Privacy Watchdog › Home Security › Vivint
⚠ See also: Terms of Service Review View ToS Review →

Vivint Privacy Policy

Last updated: November 2025 | Reviewed: February 2026

Extensive smart home data collection with cloud-only storage. Remote technician access capabilities and broad data sharing raise privacy concerns.

28
Grade D
Privacy Summary: Vivint's smart home system collects extensive data including video, audio, thermostat settings, lighting patterns, and door lock activity. All data requires cloud storage with no local option. Remote access by technicians for troubleshooting creates potential for unauthorized viewing. Their privacy policy grants broad rights to use data for "business purposes."

Category Scores

Data Collection 22/100
Data Sharing 28/100
Data Retention 30/100
Security Measures 32/100
User Controls 35/100

Key Findings

🔎 Extensive Smart Home Data Collection
Vivint's integrated smart home system collects data from cameras, doorbell, thermostat, door locks, garage door, lighting, and more. This creates a comprehensive profile of your daily habits, when you're home, your temperature preferences, and entry patterns.
"We collect information from your Vivint devices including video recordings, doorbell activity, thermostat settings, door lock status, and lighting usage to provide and improve our services."
🔎 Remote Technician Access
Vivint technicians can remotely access your system for troubleshooting and support. While intended for customer service, this capability means your cameras and system controls can potentially be accessed without your physical presence.
"Our support team may remotely access your Vivint system to diagnose issues, perform updates, and provide technical support."
🔎 Cloud-Only Storage
Unlike some competitors, Vivint offers no local storage option. All video footage and system data must pass through and be stored on Vivint's cloud servers. You cannot operate the system in a fully local mode.
"Video recordings and system data are stored in our secure cloud infrastructure to enable remote access and professional monitoring features."
🔎 Broad Business Use Rights
Vivint's privacy policy grants them broad rights to use your data for "business purposes" including product improvement, analytics, and marketing. The definition of business purposes is expansive.
"We may use your information for our legitimate business purposes including improving our products and services, conducting analytics, and marketing our offerings."

Data Collection Summary

Data TypeCollectedRisk Level
Video Footage (Interior/Exterior)YesCritical
Audio RecordingYesCritical
Entry/Exit PatternsYesHigh
Thermostat/Energy DataYesMedium
Lighting PatternsYesMedium
Garage Door ActivityYesHigh

Recommendation

Significant Privacy Concerns: Vivint's extensive data collection and cloud-only architecture create significant privacy risks. The remote access capability, while useful for support, is a potential vector for unauthorized access.

For Users: If privacy is a priority, consider alternatives with local storage options. If using Vivint, be aware that all your smart home data is stored in their cloud and potentially accessible by staff. Disable interior cameras when possible.