Kawaiicon Hackers Unleash Innovative Antivirus System: Real-Time CO2 Monitoring for a Healthier Con Experience

New Zealand's Kawaiicon, a premier hacker conference, quietly implemented a real-time, room-by-room carbon dioxide monitoring system for attendees to combat the spread of illness, commonly referred to as "con crud." The system, which utilized DIY CO2 monitors installed throughout the Michael Fowler Centre venue, allowed attendees to check a public online dashboard for clean air readings before the conference began on November 6. According to Jeff Moss, founder of the Defcon and Black Hat security conferences, the organizers' decision to install the monitoring system was a testament to the true spirit of hacking. "CO2 is being used as an approximation for so many things, but there are no easy, inexpensive network monitoring solutions available," Moss said in an interview with WIRED. "What they did is fantastic." The monitoring system was designed to provide real-time data on CO2 levels in various areas of the conference venue, including session rooms, kids' areas, and the front desk. This information was made available to attendees through a public online dashboard, allowing them to make informed decisions about their participation in the conference. The decision to implement the monitoring system was likely influenced by the growing concern over the spread of illness at large gatherings, such as conferences and festivals. "Con crud" is a colloquial term used to describe the various illnesses that can spread quickly among attendees at these events. The use of CO2 as a proxy for air quality is not new, but it is an innovative approach to monitoring the health and safety of attendees at large gatherings. The DIY CO2 monitors used in the Kawaiicon system are a cost-effective solution that can be easily implemented in a variety of settings. The success of the Kawaiicon monitoring system has sparked interest in the use of similar technologies in other industries, including healthcare and education. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of air quality and public health, innovative solutions like the Kawaiicon system are likely to play an increasingly important role. The Kawaiicon conference took place from November 6 to 8, and attendees were able to access the monitoring system throughout the event. The system will likely be evaluated for its effectiveness in reducing the spread of illness at future conferences and gatherings.