The actual article doesn't quite align, he seems more horrified that the manufacturer is remotely disabling his device because he blocked the telemetry.

Given the skill of the guy, I'm guessing he's not that surprised that the telemetry existed, since he went looking for it to start with. But I guess it made a better headline.

On a more constructive note, if you want control then buy a robot on Valetudos supported device list and install it.

He was even more surprised when they bricked it after he disabled the telemetry. Maybe it was part of the terms of service but the article says the telemetry is without user consent.