In a surprising turn of events, a hacker has breached the digital payment systems of smart washing machines in student dormitories across Amsterdam, granting thousands of residents free laundry services.
The incident, which has since been resolved by the management company Duwo, has raised both eyebrows and concerns about the security of connected devices—and its unintended consequences.
The Breach
The breach, first detected in mid-July 2025, allowed students at the Spinozacampus housing complex to bypass the payment system of the smart washing machines, effectively providing free access to laundry services. With over 1,250 residents relying on these facilities, the hacker’s actions offered a temporary boon to cash-strapped students. However, the unauthorized access did not go unnoticed for long, prompting a swift response from Duwo, the company responsible for managing the dormitory’s amenities.
Duwo’s Response
Upon discovering the hack, Duwo took decisive action by disabling all affected smart washing machines to prevent further losses.
The company, which relies on revenue from these devices to maintain affordable laundry services, stated, “Because we purchase the machines ourselves, we need the income to continue offering services to our residents at reasonable prices.” The decision, while pragmatic, left students without reliable access to laundry facilities, exacerbating an already tense situation.
Potential Health Risks
The lack of operational washing machines has sparked fears of a potential lice outbreak among students. Reports from the Dutch publication *Folia* indicate that the remaining 10 analog machines are frequently out of order, with one student claiming that only a single unit is consistently functional. This scarcity has led to long queues and growing frustration, with some residents pointing to the health hazards posed by inadequate hygiene options. A nearby dormitory with additional machines offers a partial solution, but the distance—approximately 200 meters—has not fully alleviated the problem.
A Move to Analog Solutions
To address the crisis, Duwo has announced plans to install several analog washing machines in the coming days. This shift back to traditional, non-digital appliances aims to restore service while mitigating the risks of future cyberattacks. The move reflects a broader trend of reevaluating the vulnerabilities of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which have increasingly become targets for hackers seeking to exploit weak security protocols.
#### The Elusive Hacker
The identity of the hacker remains unknown, with authorities yet to launch a formal investigation. Experts, including ethical hacker Sijmen Ruwhof, suggest that the breach was likely the work of talented students residing on campus. Ruwhof noted, “There are lots of bright minds on that campus who also know how to program. It gives you a huge kick when you hack into a washing machine like that.” While the hacker could face up to a year in prison—or six years if financial gain is proven — Ruwhof doubts that Duwo will pursue the costly and time-consuming effort to track them down.
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Broader Implications
This incident highlights the double-edged sword of smart technology in everyday life. While IoT devices like smart washing machines promise convenience, their connectivity also exposes them to security risks.
The Amsterdam hack echoes similar breaches reported globally, including teenage-led attacks on major companies like MGM Grand Casinos and Marks & Spencer.
As Duwo transitions to analog machines, the episode serves as a cautionary tale for institutions and manufacturers about the need for robust cybersecurity measures in an increasingly connected world.
For now, students at Spinozacampus are left hoping for a quick resolution, while the anonymous hacker’s ingenuity—whether a prank or a statement—continues to spark debate.
