These identification dots have been around at least 15 years. Working in a LEO in 1999, I was aware both laser and inkjet printers were traceable then (not jus

These identification dots have been around at least 15 years. Working in a LEO in 1999, I was aware both laser and inkjet printers were traceable then (not just color). For serious enough cases (drugs mostly at that time, the terrorism stuff was strictly post 2001) prints could be sent for technical analysis (probably via 3 letter agency) and details came back (within 24 hours if it was serious enough). No-one seems to have picked up on the more concerning fact that nowadays with internet connected everything, your printer driver can quite easily report in the printer details via your connection (that friendly, 'do you want me to check for updates?' or 'live ink/toner status' tool can do more than what they say and if it's a net connected printer itself, it can do it directly). So now, an IP/location/ISP bill payer can be identified with the printer (even over time if you sell it on). Much better tracking than before when it relied on you filling in and sending off that 'warranty registration' card. Better hope you've got details of who you sold the printer to if it happens that Craigslist John Doe has some other use in mind other than printing vacation photos.