news.volyx.in

Daytripper (github.com)

727 points by omarchowdhury · 2595 days ago · 198 comments on HN

Article summary

Daytripper is a laser tripwire device that can hide all windows, lock a computer, or execute a custom script when motion is detected. It consists of a transmitter and receiver, with a range of 100 meters and a battery life of 50 hours. The device is compatible with Windows and other operating systems that support USB keyboards. It can be purchased on Tindie, with a small production run currently available.

Main themes

  • Laser Tripwire
  • Computer Security
  • Motion Detection
  • Custom Scripts
  • Encryption
  • Secure Data Erasure

What commenters say

  • The device can be used to quickly hide sensitive information on a computer when someone approaches, providing an additional layer of security and privacy. Some commenters suggest using full-disk encryption and secure erase methods to protect sensitive data. Others propose using virtual encrypted volumes and mounting and unmounting them as needed to add an extra layer of security. There are different opinions on the best methods for securely erasing data, with some suggesting the use of degaussers or thermite, while others recommend overwriting the disk with random bits or using specialized scripts. The effectiveness of the device in preventing data breaches is debated, with some arguing that it is useful for protecting against casual snooping, while others believe it may not be sufficient against more determined attackers. Some commenters discuss the importance of using encrypted disks and overwriting master keys to prevent data recovery. The use of custom scripts and virtual encrypted volumes is seen as a way to add flexibility and security to the device's functionality.