Certain VPN connections might work for specific websites, so using different VPNs on different devices can help access blocked websites.
Decentralized VPNs offer advantages but more research is needed to confidently recommend specific services.
To achieve a stock Android experience on a Samsung device, look for custom ROMs that closely resemble the AOSP experience, such as Lineage OS.
Deep dives
Question about using VPN on certain websites
A listener named Frank asks about using a VPN but finding that certain websites are blocked. The speaker suggests that certain VPN connections might work for specific websites and advises using different VPNs on different devices to access blocked websites. They also mention that some operating systems and VPNs offer split tunneling which allows excluding certain applications from the VPN.
Decentralized VPNs and their safety
A listener named Barnaby asks about decentralized VPNs and their safety and effectiveness compared to conventional VPN services. The speaker recommends watching an interview with the Safing team, who discuss the concept of decentralized VPNs, the advantages they offer, and the areas where they might not be as developed as traditional VPN and Tor services. The speaker suggests that more research is needed to confidently recommend any specific decentralized VPN services.
Understanding stock Android and alternatives
A listener inquires about the concept of stock Android and how to achieve it on a Samsung device. The speaker explains that stock Android refers to the version of Android that ships with Google Pixel devices, containing minimal bloatware and focusing on the Google ecosystem. They advise looking for custom ROMs that closely resemble the AOSP (Android Open Source Project) experience, such as Lineage OS. The speaker also clarifies that it may not be possible to install Google's stock Android on Samsung devices, but custom ROMs can provide a similar experience.
Choosing a secure TOTP2FA implementation
A listener named David Johnson seeks advice on the most private and secure way to implement TOTP2FA (time-based one-time passwords). The speaker discusses the privacy concerns associated with popular options like Google Authenticator and recommends privacy-respecting alternatives such as Aegis and NT Authenticator, which offer offline functionality and enable storing seed codes for backup in an encrypted format. They caution against using cloud-based syncing solutions like Authy due to potential security risks.
Privacy implications of using iOS Siri and search
A listener expresses concern about privacy when using iOS Siri and search, specifically mentioning potential data leaks to apps on the device. The speaker states that Siri and related features may collect additional data within the iOS ecosystem, but doubts that app access to search results is as extensive as described. They suggest that apps provide information to the iPhone for indexing purposes, rather than receiving every search query. Further clarification and input from experts in the comments are encouraged.
Wrap-up and appreciation for listener support
The podcast episode concludes with a reminder to support the show through Patreon and express gratitude to listeners for their questions and contributions. The speaker anticipates future episodes and Q&A sessions.
Stock Android, decentralized VPNs, security of TOTP applications, iOS search privacy/security, and more from SR153Q&A, join our next Q&A on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/surveillancepod