Jack Rhysider, creator of Darknet Diaries, talks about storytelling, the impact of technology on our lives, and his favorite episodes on his show. They also discuss the power of unresolved tension in storytelling, the difference between Stalkerware and parental controls, playing a game with scammers, and the dilemma of revealing hidden websites on the internet.
The Darknet Diaries podcast episode explores the CIA's use of publicly visible websites as covert communication platforms, revealing the intricate methods employed by intelligence agencies for undercover operations.
The podcast episode delves into the mysterious disappearances of CIA agents and sources within the covert communications network, highlighting the risks involved in reporting on sensitive topics and the potential dangers faced by spies and agents.
Deep dives
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The "Compromised Comms" episode of Darknet Diaries explores the CIA's use of publicly visible websites as covert communication platforms between spies and sources. The episode delves into the high stakes and human cost involved when these websites were compromised. The story sheds light on how the CIA communicates securely with agents in the field, going beyond traditional methods like in-person meetings or standard messaging platforms. The use of hidden chat rooms within innocuous websites is highlighted, revealing the ingenious methods employed by intelligence agencies to operate undercover. The episode not only provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of espionage, but it also uncovers the challenges and risks faced by those involved in covert operations. Overall, the episode offers a thought-provoking look at the intersection of technology and intelligence gathering.
Uncovering a Hidden World of Disappearances
In this podcast episode, the host discusses a mysterious story uncovered by Yahoo News about people disappearing in the CIA's covert communications network. The host expresses curiosity about the hidden aspects of the internet and wonders about other unknown events happening. It becomes clear that some CIA agents and sources may have been compromised, leading to their disappearance or imprisonment. The episode emphasizes the challenge of reporting on such sensitive topics and the potential dangers involved. Overall, it delves into the shadowy world of agents, spies, and the risks they face.
Private Companies and Intelligence Contractors
The podcast episode explores the story of a private company called CyberPoint, which hires intelligence officials to conduct offensive security operations abroad. This private network of intelligence professionals finds themselves working in the UAE, where they encounter ethical dilemmas and discover activities they are not comfortable with. The host highlights the moral tension faced by individuals who are trained by government institutions like the NSA and then navigate murky situations in different countries. The story sheds light on the potential destructive nature of traits commonly found in hacking communities. This episode ultimately poses the question of how far individuals are willing to go to uphold their values in an ecosystem that may not prioritize those same values.
We celebrate the spooky season with Jack Rhysider, creator of the fantastic show Darknet Diaries. We discuss telling unsettling stories, how the way we use technology reveals stuff about us, and some of our favourite episodes of his show.
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