The 404 Media Podcast
404 Media
Welcome to the podcast from 404 Media where Joseph, Sam, Emanuel, and Jason catch you up on the stories we published this week. 404 Media is a journalist-owned digital media company exploring the way technology is shaping–and is shaped by–our world. We bring you unparalleled access to hidden worlds both online and IRL through investigative reporting, smart blogging, and breaking news. At 404 Media you’ll read, and hear, stories you can’t find anywhere else written by journalists who are leading experts on their beats. Subscribe to 404 Media at 404media.co to gain access to an ad-free version of this podcast, as well as a bonus podcast episodes. Subscribers are the bedrock of building a sustainable business for our journalism.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
17 snips
Oct 2, 2024 • 41min
AI Companies Are Opting You In By Default
Join Sam, a data privacy commentator, and Joseph, a tech industry expert, as they unpack the recent trend of companies like Udemy, PayPal, and LinkedIn opting users into data collection without consent. They dive into Udemy's controversial AI policies and discuss PayPal's lack of transparency regarding user data sharing. The conversation takes a darker turn as Sam recounts the unsettling experience of a woman trapped in a driverless Waymo, raising significant concerns about safety and autonomy in an AI-driven world.
13 snips
Sep 25, 2024 • 47min
Telegram is Working With the Cops
Joseph, a tech policy analyst, discusses Telegram's significant shift in user data policy, now cooperating with law enforcement. Emanuel, an intellectual property lawyer, delves into Nintendo's controversial lawsuit against Palworld, highlighting its potential implications in the gaming industry. Sam shares firsthand experiences with Telegram, reflecting on its changing dynamics as a platform. Together, they explore the tension between user privacy and legal compliance in a digital world increasingly under scrutiny.
Sep 18, 2024 • 44min
Hezbollah's Exploding Pagers
In this engaging discussion, Jason, an expert in tech safety, sheds light on the alarming wave of pager explosions in Lebanon, delving into lithium battery risks and potential sabotage. Emanuel then takes the stage, offering insights into Snapchat's future AI selfie ads, raising intriguing ethical questions. The conversation also tackles the implications of AI in surveillance, drawing connections to tech giants and the fine line between safety and privacy. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking exploration of tech's darker sides!
9 snips
Sep 11, 2024 • 41min
Fraudsters: 'We Know Where You Live'
In this discussion, Sam reveals alarming details about the rise of sextortion emails, which leverage personal info, including home addresses, to intimidate their victims into compliance. Jason shifts gears to highlight the burgeoning right to repair movement in healthcare, advocating for DIY approaches to medication and personal medical care. He even unravels a long-standing mystery from Reddit, showcasing the role of facial recognition technology. Together, they explore the dark undercurrents of online scams and the fight for medical autonomy.
Sep 4, 2024 • 39min
Is Criticizing AI Ableist?
The discussion kicks off with the controversy surrounding NaNoWriMo and its claim that condemning AI reflects classist and ableist views. The hosts navigate the implications of AI in creative writing, unpacking the community's backlash against AI sponsorship. They also delve into how young adult authors are affected by this shift. The conversation then shifts to exciting innovations in game development, highlighting a groundbreaking AI software that redefines traditional methods and raises ethical questions about the future of content creation.
7 snips
Aug 28, 2024 • 46min
The Arrest of Telegram Founder Pavel Durov
Pavel Durov, cofounder of the popular messaging platform Telegram, discusses the implications of his recent arrest within the tech world. He dives into how Telegram navigates a tricky landscape of encryption and content moderation, especially regarding the platform's role in illegal activities. The conversation also tackles controversial advertising practices, including 'Active Listening,' and raises critical questions about privacy invasion and the ethicality of data collection in tech today. Durov sheds light on the complexities of free speech in the digital age.
Aug 25, 2024 • 2min
A Whirlwind Tour of DEF CON
Join an exciting journey through the DEF CON hacking conference, where insiders share their experiences and insights. Discover the vibrant hacking culture and meet intriguing technologists. Learn about groundbreaking innovations like the Raspberry Pico 2 and the shifting influence of artificial intelligence in the hacking realm. The atmosphere hums with energy, intrigue, and the thrill of innovation as hackers and researchers connect.
Aug 21, 2024 • 36min
How Taylor Swift Could Sue Trump for AI Images
Taylor Swift, the influential singer-songwriter, discusses potential legal action against Donald Trump regarding AI-generated images that misuse her likeness. The conversation reveals the perils of digital manipulation and calls for protections against non-consensual celebrity endorsements. Joseph, a technology and law expert, highlights the U.S.'s use of hacked messages from encrypted phones for prosecuting drug traffickers, shedding light on innovative policing tactics in the face of organized crime. It's a fascinating intersection of celebrity rights and law enforcement strategies!
7 snips
Aug 14, 2024 • 43min
The OSINT Hunt for a Sex Trafficking Ringleader
Join Sam, a gifted storyteller, as he recounts the thrilling pursuit of Michael Pratt, a notorious sex trafficking ringleader. Pratt's unbelievable connection to the controversial Girls Do Porn brand reveals the dark side of exploitation masquerading as entertainment. Experts discuss the desperate manhunt, detailing the efforts of a determined group of friends and their unique skills. Additionally, Joseph dives into the world of hacking with 'Airbnb hopping,' showcasing the lengths some go to evade capture. A truly gripping narrative of justice and daring!
24 snips
Aug 7, 2024 • 49min
The Massive Nvidia Leak
Sam, who played a key role in exposing Nvidia's massive leak, discusses the company's controversial data scraping practices from platforms like YouTube and Netflix for AI training. Jason sheds light on his investigation into AI-generated spam on Facebook, revealing the creators behind it and the complexities of social media monetization. They also touch on the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI and corporate practices, along with insights from their experiences at the DEF CON conference.
