IRL: Online Life is Real Life

Guests Jonathan Hirshon, Peter Steiner, Kaamran Hafeez, Alison Macrina, and Morgan Taylor discuss the value of anonymity on the internet, maintaining privacy, the evolution of memes and digital anonymity, and what lies beneath the searchable web.

Facial recognition technology and its impact on our lives is explored in this podcast. Topics include mistaken identity, racial bias in big data, power and risks of recognition for marginalized communities, future of facial recognition technology, and its deployment in China.

Growing up online, Internet addiction rehab, apps borrowing from gambling technology, breaking up with Twitter, Internet as a lifeline, no-smartphone challenge, challenges of constant internet use, digital overload and breaking point, understanding the four steps of the Hook model, addiction vs habit, product responsibility, managing digital overload and detoxing habits.

Experts in social media bots, Lauren Kunze and Jenn Schiffer, along with researcher Lisa-Maria Neudert, political bot CEO Jack Hirsch, and bot authority Ben Nimmo discuss the influence of bots on politics and online discourse. Topics covered include the rise of social media bots, identifying and countering bot activities, the impact of bots on the 2016 election and net neutrality, and the transformative power of the internet.

The podcast discusses the battle for the open Internet and what's next in the fight for net neutrality. Topics include trolling Ajit Pai with a pay-per-pupper plan, Verizon protesters' experiences, the road ahead for net neutrality according to FCC's Mignon Clyburn, and taking the fight to court. The importance of a free and open internet, potential legal arguments, ISP precautions, and the political implications of net neutrality are also explored.

Activist Amanda Werner discusses creating visibility for victims of identity theft by dressing as the Monopoly Man. Investigative journalist Marcy Wheeler analyzes the arrest of hacker Marcus Hutchins. Troy Hunt advocates for warning labels on IoT devices. The podcast also includes updates on the evolution of Season One's stories and the launch of a new Firefox browser.

Leaders in the tech world discuss the role of tech companies in regulating free speech and reducing hate speech online. They explore the challenges faced by tech companies, the distinction between hate speech and free speech, and the power and responsibility of these companies in setting guidelines. The podcast also touches on unintentional blocking of LGBTQ content on YouTube and the challenges of self-censorship and understanding free speech online.

What is life like without fast Internet, and how does life change once a person has it? Should Internet access be a right, rather than a luxury? Veronica Belmont explores these questions as she talks to people about joining the digital economy. Inspiring stories of access are surfaced by members of a small Minnesota community and by a Syrian refugee who found hope in Amsterdam. IRL is an original podcast from Mozilla. For more on the series go to irlpodcast.org The more voices, perspectives, languages, and people contributing to the Web, the richer the experience for everyone. But the Internet is not yet accessible to all. Find out how you can make a difference. And, find out how libraries, in particular, are evolving to meet digital demand and address patrons' connectivity issues.

The podcast explores the risks and concerns of surveillance in the digital age, including government spying and personal information storage by connected devices. It delves into the privacy and safety risks of internet connected toys, discussing major security breaches and the ban on certain toys in Germany. The chapter also discusses precautions that can be taken to address privacy concerns and highlights the need to protect oneself from unwarranted surveillance through encryption and security measures.

Explore the impact of online trolling on individuals and the Web, with a focus on women in tech. Learn about a unique way to fight back with Troll Cakes Bakery. Understand the physical and emotional toll of online harassment and the concept of a 'troll tax'. Challenge the stereotype of trolls and strive for a more inclusive online environment.