What is a "dead man switch" and what relationship does it have with the man behind the McAfee antivirus

It seems silly, but surely more than one would want to configure this “switch” once it passes to a better life. We tell you what it is and why the name McAfee appears.

The concept of a “dead man’s switch” is pretty straightforward. As its name indicates, it is a switch, an opening key to be activated when its creator dies. Originally it was a physical button, but now with new developments it is more closely linked to computer programs.

And it is that, if you have information you want to pass on after your death, a “dead man’s switch” might be what you need.

This serves as a security mechanism, ensuring the release of information in case the person dies. Unsurprisingly, many also use it as a form of insurance, deterring their enemies. This is where McAfee comes in.

One of the most notorious deaths in recent years was that of John McAfee, the man behind McAfee antivirus software. He evaded taxes and he became a declared fugitive from the government.

And when he died in a Barcelona prison cell while awaiting extradition to the United States, many thought he was a “dead man’s switch.” would be activated and would go viral in all the mediaespecially when a cryptic image was posted on his Instagram account.

This one basically claimed to have it, stating that he had files on corruption in various governments. He threatened to release more than 31 terabytes of incriminating information if he was arrested.

He even stated that the information would be released the moment it disappeared. Obviously none of that happened, but it certainly kept everyone on their toes. When John McAfee died, only one image was posted on his Instagram channel, with a big Q (probably a reference to the QAnon movement).

Members of this sect have already claimed that there are “dead man’s switches” that include evidence of state activities. And it is that, in general, a “dead man’s switch” can be configured and used by anyone with a little technical knowledge.

Although basic, Google’s Inactive Account Manager is a good example. Setting up Inactive Google Account Manager is easy, but in a way, it also works as a “dead man’s switch”.