Hasan Minhaj Doesn't Know How The Trump Admin Could Spy on You with Ronan Farrow
May 28, 2025
In a lively chat, Pulitzer-winning journalist Ronan Farrow shares insights from his HBO documentary on spyware and his podcast 'Not a Very Good Murderer.' He dives into the escalating threats of surveillance technology and its chilling effects on privacy and civil liberties. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas in journalism and the concept of 'turnkey tyranny.' Plus, there's a playful exchange about hair care that showcases Farrow’s versatile persona as he balances serious themes with humor.
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Spyware's New Pervasiveness
- Private spyware firms have created "CIA in a box" technology for governments, making intrusive surveillance widely available.
- This technology can turn phones into secret listening devices and hijack cameras and data without user knowledge.
Farrow's Spyware Experience
- Ronan Farrow was followed and surveilled by a private espionage firm called Black Cube using GPS tracking software.
- Since then, he has taken extreme measures like using retro iPods and cash-bought Wi-Fi hotspots for sensitive journalism.
Device Spyware Protection
- Use security tools like Citizen Lab and Amnesty International's apps to test if your devices have spyware.
- For highly sensitive reporting, use cash-bought Wi-Fi hotspots and devices with limited apps to reduce tracking risk.