Tails of the state of "helpful" Internet Technology?

Badger52 · 03-22-2021, 04:53

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ_BPK

How do they know about my new wifi enabled SMART thermostat??😡

Couple of different ways. Most likely is simply that you downloaded the app. When you do that you are likely de facto agreeing to let them use your subject-matter-related info (interest in temp control apps for smart thermostats) and it gets provided to others. Even if it's someone else's app, the app store that allows it to be there available for you gets their 10% for their Big Guy via sale of your information.

The other possible way is that the power company is doing a drive-around in the neighborhood reading their own smart meters and your device popped up on your network. How is the security on your thermostat and your wi-fi point...?

JJ_BPK · 03-22-2021, 06:16

Quote:

Originally Posted by Badger52

Couple of different ways. Most likely is simply that you downloaded the app.

How is the security on your thermostat and your wi-fi point...?

I think you're correct. When you register for a warranty and set up the app.

The manufacture has installed two software updates, so I think the app squealed to the utility.

As to my setup. I use two serial passthrough routers, both with firewalls and a VPN service, with a non-related virus app.

The thermostat is connected to the outside router and not the router with my system.

My condo uses computer controlled remote utilities recording. Not sure what it is capable of??

mark46th · 03-22-2021, 09:20

I think I heard my robot vacuum telling my microwave to kill me.

Sohei · 03-22-2021, 10:28

At the end of the day, for every "out" they give you to keep your information *private*, they have a backdoor for. It's really just a "feel-good" for us to think we are able to control our information output, but...they are truly the controllers of our information.

tom kelly · 03-22-2021, 15:02

How can you effectively block a signal from any electronic device i-phone, lap-top computer, printer, Thermostat, TV with router box, Does anyone here have an effective method to stop the flow of information in or out of these devices short of complete destruction, Would wrapping an i phone in a copper envelope be sufficient any other material that would block an electronic signal, lead, mylar, silver ? I have a printer that "Talks to HP" so when the Ink supply is low they, HP send me new cartridges & auto bill my credit card. I get billed but do not get the ink, Not a big amount $3.00/month but it always works to HP's advantage. Turning off the printer has not made a difference so I cancelled the auto credit pmt. I have un-plugged the printer and it still has a memory to bill my credit card. How can I erase the memory from the printer? any thoughts.!!!!

JJ_BPK · 03-22-2021, 17:56

Quote:

Originally Posted by tom kelly

How can I erase the memory from the printer? any thoughts.!!!!

Tom
You need to
1)Check your CC or bank account to see if it is set up to automatically send money to HP
2)Call HP and demand they stop sending electronic bills to your CC

JJ_BPK · 03-22-2021, 17:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark46th

I think I heard my robot vacuum telling my microwave to kill me.

Badger52 · 03-22-2021, 18:54

Quote:

Originally Posted by JJ_BPK

You rascal; beat me to it.

So who's "Dave" here - the utility, the condo ass'n, or did your thermostat suddenly become self-aware when you downloaded the app? Holy garage bay doors, man!

If your app ever says "this conversation can serve no purpose anymore" get a BFH and whack the m'fer.

sfshooter · 03-22-2021, 22:18

I'd have to ask him what the name and model was, but a friend of mine had a cheap cell signal blocker. We'd sit in the bar and he would turn it on when people starting playing on their phones nearby.
It seemed to work pretty good if you were close by.

JJ_BPK · 03-23-2021, 06:08

Quote:

Originally Posted by sfshooter

I'd have to ask him what the name and model was, but a friend of mine had a cheap cell signal blocker. We'd sit in the bar and he would turn it on when people starting playing on their phones nearby.
It seemed to work pretty good if you were close by.

Emerson Sensi

My fix is to turn the AC off. Just off my BR is the air-handler with an on/off wall switch for maintenance. Most of the year I turn the unit off at dinner time and back on the next AM. When the weather is good (50-70 deg) I may not turn the AC on for the day.

PS: Tell me about the wifi blocker. I could use one when the g-kids visit.

**Peregrino** · 03-23-2021, 08:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by sfshooter

I'd have to ask him what the name and model was, but a friend of mine had a cheap cell signal blocker. We'd sit in the bar and he would turn it on when people starting playing on their phones nearby.
It seemed to work pretty good if you were close by.

I recommend caution using one of these devices. IIRC, the FCC takes a dim view of civilians using jamming devices - as in criminal charges if they catch you.