Samsung remotely disables TVs looted from South African warehouse (news.samsung.com)

Article summary

Samsung has remotely disabled TVs that were looted from a warehouse in South Africa, raising concerns about the company's ability to control devices after they have been sold. This move has sparked a discussion about the implications of smart devices being connected to the internet and the potential for manufacturers to exert control over them. The incident has also highlighted the issue of grey market buyers who may be affected by such actions. The ability to remotely disable devices has both positive and negative consequences, depending on the context and motivations behind its use.

Main themes

• device control
• ownership and privacy
• security risks
• manufacturer power
• grey market implications
• crime prevention

What commenters say

• Remotely disabling stolen devices can be seen as a positive action, but it also raises concerns about the potential for abuse of this power.
• The ability to control devices after they have been sold undermines the concept of ownership and can have negative consequences for legitimate buyers.
• The use of smart devices and internet connectivity can compromise user privacy and security, and manufacturers' ability to scan and collect data on users' behavior is a concern.
• Some argue that the benefits of remotely disabling stolen devices outweigh the potential risks and negative consequences, while others believe that this power should not be in the hands of manufacturers.
• The incident highlights the need for clearer laws and regulations regarding device ownership and control, as well as the potential consequences of manufacturers' actions.
• The potential for devices to be hacked and controlled by third parties is a significant concern, and the consequences of such an event could be severe.
• The value of devices and their components can vary greatly depending on the context and market, and remotely disabling them may not necessarily render them worthless.
• The use of technology to prevent crime and protect intellectual property is a complex issue, and different stakeholders have different opinions on the matter.