Unplugged: Cellular Privacy in a Surveillance Economy

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Dec 11, 2024

Ryan Paterson, CEO of Unplugged Technologies, shares his mission to empower users with a privacy-focused mobile device. He discusses the alarming surveillance landscape and why privacy is essential today. Paterson reveals challenges in building a secure device and emphasizes the importance of engaging with early adopters for feedback. The conversation also highlights a new collaboration between Unplugged and Brave, showcasing their commitment to user privacy amidst growing industry demands. A must-listen for anyone concerned about data security!

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INSIGHT

Data Leakage and User Awareness

Many consumers are unaware of extensive data leakage from their phones.
Unplugged aims to simplify privacy management for average users, not just tech-savvy individuals.

INSIGHT

Unplugged's Full-Stack Privacy Approach

The Unplugged phone prioritizes privacy by removing Google Play Services and using a custom OS.
This full-stack approach includes hardware and software features like a kill switch and privacy button.

ANECDOTE

From Patriot Act to Data Exploitation

Ryan Paterson's experience with the Patriot Act and data collection in the military shaped his views.
He noticed data initially meant for advertising is now readily available and exploitable.

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Ryan Paterson, CEO of Unplugged Technologies, discusses the mission and features of Unplugged, a privacy-focused mobile device aimed at empowering users to regain control over their personal data. He also shares stories from his background with DARPA, and the challenge of integrating emerging tech into these real-world operations.

Key Takeaways:

Why privacy-focused devices are essential in today's surveillance economy
The need for awareness around data privacy, especially for parents and families
The challenges of building a privacy-first device, and the importance of community engagement with early adopters
The details of a new partnership between Unplugged and Brave

Guest Bio: Ryan Paterson is the CEO of Unplugged Technologies, a company dedicated to advancing commercial cellular privacy. He has over 20 years of experience leading innovative technology development and operational initiatives across the federal and civilian sectors. Previously, he founded IST Research, where he developed advanced information systems for challenging environments, finally culminating in a successful exit in 2020. A two-time DARPA veteran, Paterson played key roles in transitioning groundbreaking technologies to the Department of Defense, including deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq.

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About this Show:

The Brave Technologist is here to shed light on the opportunities and challenges of emerging tech. To make it digestible, less scary, and more approachable for all!

Join us as we embark on a mission to demystify artificial intelligence, challenge the status quo, and empower everyday people to embrace the digital revolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a curious mind, or an industry professional, this podcast invites you to join the conversation and explore the future of AI together.

The Brave Technologist Podcast is hosted by Luke Mulks, VP Business Operations at Brave Software—makers of the privacy-respecting Brave browser and Search engine, and now powering AI everywhere with the Brave Search API.

Music by: Ari Dvorin

Produced by: Sam Laliberte