xkcd #3109: Dehumidifier

Title text:

It’s important for devices to have internet connectivity so the manufacturer can patch remote exploits.

Transcript:

[A store salesman, Hairy, is showing Cueball a dehumidifier, with a “SALE” label on it. Several other unidentified devices, possibly other dehumidifier models, are shown in the store as well.]

Salesman: This dehumidifier model features built-in WiFi for remote updates.
Cueball: Great! That will be really useful if they discover a new kind of water.

Source: https://xkcd.com/3109/

explainxkcd for #3109

  • bob_lemon@feddit.org
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    20 hours ago

    That’s why it’s important to make sure the device can also run purely locally (e.g. via HomeAssistant).

    (Not meant as a rebuke, just good advice for the future)

    • GreatAlbatross@feddit.uk
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      19 hours ago

      Exactly this. The device either needs to be open enough that it can easily integrate to HA without internet access.
      Or dumb enough that I can mod it with an ESP.

      Anything that has to go through the manufacturer’s servers goes in the bin, the risks of data theft/rent seeking are too damned high.