I'm not one to frequently post negative or bad reviews. However, I've contemplated this post for months while I watched my Voltson log size grow exponentially.
Two stars for the fact that it works and does it well.
The problem is in the firmware. Even when an IoT device appears secure and locked down, without proper investigation, you still don't know what it's doing on your network.
However, this device and its required app consistently calls home reports data back to China (cosylin.cosytek.com and *.taobao.com) via HTTP, within the URI, and in plain text. A quick search for malware and taobao.com will provide you with plenty of detail. Snort or pcap logs will tell you a whole lot more.
Additional (and expected) connections occur with AWS for IoT service and with the Alexa web service.
Built on the Espressif ESP8266, documentation available online. Good reference if you want to understand how this thing works.
Suggest pfsense or custom DNS to block outbound connections to nefarious sites and set up security specific triggers on the MAC address so you know if it starts misbehaving.
If you don't know what any of these are, feel free to take the risk. However, I highly recommend educating yourself on the level of risk associated with consumer based IoT devices, then learn how to protect your network and mitigate those risks.
| Manufacturer | Etekcity |
|---|---|
| Part Number | ESW01-USA |
| Item Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 2.4 x 1.18 x 2.2 inches |
| Item model number | 817915020586 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | 2 Pack |
| Color | White |
| Style | 2 Pack |
| Shape | Circular |
| Thickness | 1.2 Inches |
| Power Source | AC |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Wattage | 960 watts |
| Amperage Capacity | 10 Amps |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Number Of Pieces | 2 |
| Cutting Diameter | 2.4 Inches |
| Plug Profile | Plug-In Mount |
| Plug Format | B - US style with ground plug. |
| Switch Style | Push Button Switch |
| Included Components | Smart Plug *2 |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Assembled Diameter | 2.4 Inches |
