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

It's important for devices to have internet connectivity so the manufacturer can patch remote exploits.
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[–] 14 points 1 year ago (4 children)

I feel you, trying to find a smart gadget that is actually smart in 2025 and not just a data collector is nearly impossible. Learning to DIY a lot of these projects. Throw one of these or similar in there with a little control board set to email you if 0 changes to 1 or w/e

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  • [–] 1 point 1 year ago (3 children)

    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.

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  • [–] 2 points 1 year ago (1 child)

    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.

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