Electronics giant Samsung has "blocked" TVs stolen in South Africa during the unrest in July, rendering them unusable.
The company says it has an inbuilt “block function” on its TVs that can be used to disable the sets remotely.
The function is activated when a user of a stolen TV or one that has been acquired unlawfully connects to the internet, according to Samsung.
The system checks the identified TV’s serial number against the list on its servers before disabling its functionality.
South Africa had weeks of violent protests and looting last month that left more than 300 people dead, and property worth billions of rands ransacked.
Some of the reportedly popular items that were stolen were smart TVs.
The ability to remotely disable TV function has received some praise among online users for its potential use to deter crime, with some also noting its potential for abuse.
One person noted that Samsung was taking "electronic revenge" on looters of its TV sets, while another said it was more reason "never to connect a TV set to the internet".
Latest Stories
-
The Keeper’s Music unveils Neyty with new single ‘Most High God’
4 mins -
Bawumia outlines 8 initiatives to create 4 million jobs for youth if elected president
10 mins -
Over 4,000 unpaid teachers demand payment of 16 months arrears from government
24 mins -
I’ve apologised to Gloria Sarfo over flight issues – AMAA Country Director
25 mins -
Ghana nearly lost $9 billion to arbitrary claims in last four years – Attorney General
44 mins -
FWSC responds to CLOGSAG strike declaration, urges return to negotiation
1 hour -
Members contribute to ‘transport’ national team – Volleyball Vice President laments financial struggles
2 hours -
New SHS curriculum provides adaptive learning pathways – EduWatch
2 hours -
Pay NABCO trainees – Mahama challenges Bawumia
2 hours -
Police ‘waiting for court date’ on Erastus’ case is a lie – Samson Anyenini
2 hours -
Sports facilities are better managed by institutions – UG Sports Director on maintenance of Legon stadium
2 hours -
Ghanaian businesses must align vision with strategy to mitigate ESG Risks – KPMG
3 hours -
MTN achieves 30% localisation of Scancom PLC
3 hours -
Attorney-General: Some lawyers sacrifice ethics for ‘cheap’ political gains
3 hours -
Bond market: Volume up by 12.45% to GH¢746m
3 hours