kill switch
kill switch (compound noun)
/kɪl swɪtʃ/
Meaning
- A safety mechanism designed to shut down machinery or equipment instantly to prevent harm or damage.
- A digital feature used to remotely disable, lock, or erase data on electronic devices, often for security purposes.
- A tool used in trading platforms to automatically stop trading activities upon reaching predefined limits, such as loss thresholds, to prevent overtrading.
- A cybersecurity tool implemented to halt or disable systems during a cyberattack to prevent further damage.
- A centralized mechanism proposed to control and shut down internet traffic in emergency situations.
Example Sentences
- The factory worker activated the kill switch to stop the machine from malfunctioning further.
- A kill switch in the software ensured the device could be wiped clean if stolen.
- The IT team deployed a kill switch to stop the ransomware attack from spreading.
- Boats often have a kill switch to shut off the engine if the operator falls overboard.
- The concept of an internet kill switch raises concerns about government control during emergencies.
Origin and History
The term “kill switch” refers to a mechanism designed to shut down machinery, devices, or systems instantly, ensuring safety or preventing further harm. Its origins span various industries, evolving with advancements in technology and safety standards.
Early Mechanical Applications
The concept of a kill switch dates back to the early 20th century, particularly in automotive and industrial sectors. In vehicles, especially boats, a lanyard-attached kill switch was introduced to stop the engine if the operator fell overboard. George Horton of Fort Worth, Texas, applied for a patent on his “Quick Kill” recreational boat kill switch on November 29, 1972, receiving U.S. Patent 3,786,892 on January 22, 1974. This device is widely viewed as the first commercially available kill switch designed specifically for use in recreational boats.
Industrial and Manufacturing Use
In industrial settings, kill switches, often referred to as emergency stop buttons, were implemented to halt machinery instantly during emergencies. These devices became crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring worker safety. The term “kill switch” in this context likely derives from the function of “killing” the power to the machine.
Digital and Cybersecurity Context
With the advent of digital technology, the term “kill switch” expanded to include software mechanisms designed to disable or shut down devices remotely. This application is particularly prevalent in cybersecurity, where kill switches are used to prevent the spread of malware or protect sensitive data. For instance, kill switch software can be used to lock or wipe a device if it is lost or stolen.
Internet Governance and Control
In discussions about internet governance, the term “kill switch” has been used metaphorically to describe a centralized mechanism that could shut down all Internet traffic, often in the context of national security and emergency powers. This concept has been a subject of debate, balancing the need for control against the potential for abuse.
Earliest Printed Record
The earliest printed use of “kill switch” in its modern sense is unclear, but it likely emerged in technical manuals and patents during the mid-20th century. The term gained broader recognition with the rise of digital technology and cybersecurity concerns.
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