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

  • ClydapusGotwald@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    1
    ·
    1 day ago

    I need to look into this and see if I can have it send me a text or something when it’s full. Another diy project to add to the list.

    • rumba@lemmy.zip
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      2
      ·
      1 day ago

      This is the around the long way method, but it’ll start you on a crippling hobby to instrument your entire life.

      Raspberry Pi home assistant zigbee USB zigbee water sensor.

      you could stop here at notifications.

      or

      Descend into madness, put a small ac submersible pump into your dehumidifier tray with a smart outlet. When the sensor trips full, have it run the submersible pump for x minutes.

    • alekwithak@lemmy.world
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      2
      ·
      edit-2
      13 hours ago

      Hey if your list of projects isn’t insurmountable what are you even doing with your life?

      Most carriers have an email to sms gateway address Usually your number@carrier.com or similar.