A nose for danger

Created by designer Leanne Wijnsma and film-maker Froukje Tan, the scent diffuser emits a metallic scent whenever a user connects to an unprotected wi-fi network or a nefarious website. The speculative device is constructed from a transparent shell that reveals its internal circuitry and wiring. The pair hope to make a wearable version in the future.

The project plays on existing learned behaviour already embedded in many consumers’ psyches. ‘Compare the Smell of Data with the smell of gas,’ Wijnsma told Dezeen. ‘We were taught to find this smell dangerous – and we know exactly how to act when we smell it.’

Wijnsma and Tan were partially inspired by recent news events around data security and whistle-blowing, such as Edward Snowden’s revelations concerning government surveillance of US citizens. ‘After Snowden's revelations a discussion about privacy started and awareness of possible risks was raised,’ said Wijnsma. ‘People started caring about their privacy a lot, but I was surprised that real action, even though sometimes simple, was hardly taken.’