In times gone by a dead letter box was often used as the location to secretly pass items between two people, without requiring them to meet. With the advent of digital technology, those fond of mystery can now use USB sticks to achieve the same goal, which is exactly what is going on as part of an art project in Coesfeld in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
A Berlin artist has hidden USB sticks at approximately 120 dead drops in streets and squares in the area.
Anyone who finds a USB key can load the data, which includes photos and music from local artists, onto their laptop or mobile phone.
People should ensure that nobody spots them when they are accessing the data so that the hiding place remains secure.