Not only is everything monitored, they listen in when you least expect it both at home or out in a business with devices connected to the internet, or people's phones.
A VPN isn't 100% good for securing your privacy either, especially against governments but can help limit some things they can collect. It doesn't really matter what you do, if someone wants to listen in or access your stuff, they will find a way.
But limiting the amount of SMART devices is definitely a big help, as is disconnecting your PC microphone and webcam.
I don't have a single "smart" appliance (unless using a PS3 for Netflix counts). I'm a software engineer who has always had an interest in tech but internet connected appliances just don't appeal to me for the most part. I would rather put that money towards a better laptop or desktop if I'm going to by tech.
Absolutely
Yeah I'm about to do a video on the limitations of VPNs actually!