Why is this a surprise..What do you think Alexa dies ? You even give it permission to do so..same will all other apps that ask for permission to use Microphone.....The data is sold..How many read the small print that says " We reserve the right to use the data we record"  

 I think the issue here is even the app owners did not know it was happening since they are severing the partnerships. Or they're acting like they didn't and are now trying to distance themselves from it.