Break free of Ring's servers, earn a five-figure bounty
The Register
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Fulu Foundation has announced a $10,000 bounty for anyone who can modify Ring cameras to run locally on users' computers or servers, eliminating data transmission to Amazon's servers. This initiative aims to address concerns over user control of technology, particularly in light of Ring's controversial Super Bowl ad and past privacy issues. The nonprofit emphasizes the importance of allowing device owners to take full ownership of their security systems without relying on subscription-based services.
The foundation highlights how Ring's current model forces users into subscriptions for advanced features like recording or monitoring. By encouraging a decentralized approach, Fulu seeks to empower users to bypass reliance on Amazon's servers and regain control over their data. This shift aligns with broader movements advocating for device independence and privacy rights in technology.
Ring's history of privacy missteps, including a $5.6 million FTC settlement, underscores the foundation's argument that consumers should not be tied to subscription models or forced data sharing. The nonprofit also points to growing public backlash against tech companies' invasive practices, as seen in social media reactions to Ring's marketing campaigns.
The Fulu Foundation's initiative is part of a larger effort to challenge Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), which restricts circumventing technological protections. While some exemptions exist, current laws still limit users' ability to modify devices as desired. The foundation hopes its bounty will spark broader conversations about tech ownership and inspire similar efforts in other industries.
For tech enthusiasts and privacy advocates, this challenge represents a meaningful opportunity to assert control over personal devices and data. By supporting initiatives like Fulu's, consumers can push for more transparent and user-friendly technology solutions that prioritize independence over corporate reliance.
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Originally published on The Register on 2/23/2026