"I had only heard of it once prior, in an piece which was discussing how the profit motive has lead companies to begin prioritizing offering cheaper, but lower-quality/less-reliable products or services"

Explains why the tasers and zip ties I bring along, each time I slip into a uni dorm in the middle of the night, frequently fail to subdue or restrain the co-ed I've chosen as prey. Fortunately, that K-Bar I got a terrific deal on at Bass Pro has proven reliable... Never had a wide-eyed 19 year old who's barely been out in the world on her own offer much resistance, provided I've kept the blade sharp, and have it pressed right on her jugular