IRL: Online Life is Real Life

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.

This podcast episode explores the world of ransomware and the emotional impact it has on individuals. It shares stories of ransomware attacks and surprising customer service provided by hackers. The episode also features the IT expert who discovered the kill switch for the WannaCry ransomware. It delves into the early days of hacking, discusses the hacking process, and highlights common security mistakes made by companies.

This podcast explores the future of net neutrality and the potential consequences of its abolishment. It discusses differing perspectives on net neutrality and how it impacts small startups. The podcast also delves into the effects of net neutrality on gamers and highlights its significance as a civil rights issue. It emphasizes the importance of taking action to defend net neutrality.

You’ve heard the expression, “When something is free, you’re the product.” And, while you may think it’s no big deal to give away your personal data in exchange for free online services, how can you know that what you get for what you give is a fair trade? Meet some of the people determined to shape the reality (or lack thereof) of privacy online. IRL is an original podcast from Mozilla. For more on the series go to irlpodcast.org. Go here for the World Privacy Forum's list of the Top 10 Most Important Opt-outs. Mozilla also has a few suggestions on how to manage the data privacy challenge discussed in this episode. For more on this episode, including editorial commentary, visit Mozilla's Internet Citizen blog. Leave a rating or review in Apple Podcasts so we know what you think.

Our online life is real life. We walk, talk, work, LOL and even love on the Internet – but we don’t always treat it like real life. Host Veronica Belmont explores this disconnect with stories from the wilds of the Web – and gets to the bottom of online issues that affect us all. Whether it’s privacy breaches, closed platforms, hacking, fake news, or cyber bullying, we the people have the power to change the course of the Internet, keeping it healthy, weird, and wonderful for everyone. IRL is an original podcast from Mozilla. For behind-the-scenes video of IRL Trailer production, and a bit more about why we're making this podcast, check out our blog.