Is Elon Musk “the space dictator” and why is the PSNI data leak so significant?
Aug 18, 2023
auto_awesome
Alexi Mostrous, Cat Neilan, and Matthew Barzun join the podcast to discuss the significant PSNI data breach, Elon Musk's unchecked power as a 'space dictator,' and the challenges faced by Afghan refugees in the US. They debate which story should lead the news and emphasize the importance of effective communication and societal interests.
The PSNI data leak raises concerns about the security and safety of officers, as well as the potential long-term impact on their lives.
Elon Musk's significant power and influence raises questions about accountability, competition, and the need for regulatory measures.
Deep dives
Sensitive Data Breach in Northern Ireland Police Service
The police service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) accidentally leaked the data of 10,000 officers and staff online, putting them and their families at risk. The leaked data included names, ranks, units, and locations of the officers. Although home addresses were not included, the data could potentially be used to identify individuals. The leak occurred due to human error, and the document was removed after three hours. However, the data had already been downloaded and shared. The PSNI believes dissident Republicans have acquired the data and may use it to generate fear, uncertainty, and target officers and staff. This incident has raised concerns about the security and safety of those involved, as well as the potential long-term impact on their lives.
Elon Musk's Unparalleled Power and Influence
Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur, has gained significant power and influence through his ownership of Tesla, SpaceX, and Twitter (now known as X). Recently, it was revealed that X deliberately slowed down access to competitor websites, news organizations, and platforms Elon Musk has clashed with. This move, though seemingly insignificant with a five-second delay, has substantial commercial implications. Furthermore, an investigation by The New York Times revealed that nearly half of all active satellites in space are owned and controlled by Musk's Starlink. This control over space-based internet has allowed Musk to make important decisions that impact geopolitical affairs, such as providing or withholding internet access for countries like Ukraine, at times sidelining government departments. The concentration of such power in the hands of one individual raises concerns about accountability, competition, and the need for regulatory measures.
Challenges Faced by Afghans with Special Status
The story centers around the 80,000 Afghans who were granted special status by the Biden administration in the aftermath of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. The special status, which granted them temporary protection, is set to expire after two years. However, some of these individuals have not been informed that their status has been renewed, leading to confusion and complications in their efforts to secure permanent residency. Moreover, some individuals who embarked on alternative pathways to gain residency during the initial two-year period are advised not to apply for the renewed status, creating uncertainty and potential setbacks in their immigration processes. The consequences of this bureaucratic confusion and lack of communication can have significant psychological and practical implications for these individuals and their families.
Understanding the Power Dynamics in Media
Recent developments involving Elon Musk highlight his significant power and influence in the media sector. Musk's ownership of X (formerly Twitter) enables him to control and influence the speed of accessing certain websites, including direct competitors and news organizations he has clashed with. This demonstrates how a small delay can have commercial implications and influence users' online behavior. Additionally, Musk's control over space-based internet through Starlink has allowed him to play a role in geopolitical affairs. For example, his decisions regarding internet access could impact military operations in conflict zones like Ukraine. The concentration of power in Musk's hands raises questions about the regulation of social media networks and the potential need for net neutrality policies to ensure fair competition and access to information.
What should lead the news? Three people pitch the story they think matters most to Tortoise editor James Harding.
In this episode he’s joined by Alexi Mostrous, Cat Neilan and former US ambassador Matthew Barzun.
The team discuss the ongoing impact of the PSNI data breach, Elon Musk’s unchecked power and faltering efforts to give Afghan refugees certainty about their new lives in the US.
The producer was Patricia Clarke and the executive producer was Lewis Vickers.
For the premium Tortoise listening experience, curated by our journalists, download the free Tortoise audio app.
For early and ad-free access, subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts.
If you’d like to further support slow journalism and help us build a different kind of newsroom, do consider donating to Tortoise at tortoisemedia.com/support-us. Your contributions allow us to investigate, campaign and explore, and to build a newsroom that is responsible and sustainable.