Offline file sharing: the advent of USB Dead Drops

The “Dead Drops” project was born in 2010 in New York with the goal of creating an anonymous, offline, peer-to-peer file sharing network in public space. Created by Aram Bartholl, a Berlin-based multimedia artist, Dead Drops has given rise to an independent movement that seeks to build an alternative network to the Internet for exchanging files and data. The project is based on the concept of installing USB sticks in public places such as walls, buildings and sidewalks.

How Dead Drops works

Dead Drops offers anyone the opportunity to participate in the growth of this network by installing a USB stick in their city. The process is simple: locate the installation site, drill a small hole and cement the key using quick-setting cement. Once installed, the stick will be part of a global network that anyone can access to share or find files. The official Dead Drops website provides a detailed map with specific information about each stick, including comments left by users who have installed them in public places.

The Dead Drops in the international context

The Dead Drops network has spread internationally, with USB sticks being installed in cities around the world. These thumb drives were placed in public places, such as walls, buildings and benches, allowing people to share and find files anonymously and offline. The project has attracted interest and participation in numerous countries, with a wide range of USB sticks installed in unusual and creative locations. For example, Dead Drops have been reported placed in trees, telephone booths, train stations, and even under bridges. This phenomenon has created a sort of treasure hunt for technology enthusiasts and has stimulated people's creativity in identifying new places to install the dongles. Some take part in the project to promote file sharing, while others see it as an alternative, underground way of communication.

How to use Dead Drops with caution

It is important to be careful when using Dead Drops USB sticks. Considering the anonymous and public nature of the network, there may be a risk that someone has intentionally placed malware on the stick. We recommend that you take appropriate security measures, such as using updated antivirus software and scanning files before opening them on your device. Furthermore, it is advisable to take advantage of the reviews and comments left by users on the Dead Drops map to determine the reliability and currency of the keys present.