Techlore Surveillance Report
Techlore
Techlore Surveillance Report is your weekly deep-dive into the privacy and security news that matters for your digital freedom. Hosted by Henry Fisher, founder of Techlore and long-time digital rights educator, each episode cuts through the noise to bring you carefully selected stories with the context, analysis, and historical perspective you need to truly understand what's happening to protect yourself (and others!) in the digital space.Topics covered include:• Privacy tool updates and vulnerabilities• Data breaches and cybersecurity incidents• Surveillance technology and government overreach• Big Tech privacy policies and practices• Encryption and security standards• Digital rights legislation and court cases• Open-source software developments• Corporate data practices and accountabilityWhether you're a beginner trying to stay informed or a seasoned expert tracking the ecosystem, Surveillance Report has been delivering weekly privacy and security news for years, and now continues as part of Techlore's mission to educate the world about privacy, security, and digital rights. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 7, 2025 • 18min
Q&A: Privacy Advice for Your Next Phone Upgrade
Dive into the debate between iPhones and Android devices, weighing their privacy features and customization options. Discover the benefits of alternatives like Graphene and CalixOS for enhanced security. Learn how to boost smartphone privacy with custom ROMs and alternative app stores. Plus, uncover savvy strategies for managing emails through aliases and custom domains to protect your identity. Whether upgrading or tweaking your device, this discussion is packed with insider tips to help you stay safe and private.
Aug 5, 2025 • 39min
Thinking of Trying a Custom ROM? Think Again...
The podcast dives into the impact of Samsung's bootloader restrictions on custom ROMs and what it means for users worldwide. Key discussions highlight critical security breaches in apps and the implications of transparency in tech. The conversation also touches on Canada's Bill C-2, raising concerns about surveillance threats against marginalized communities. A fascinating legal case from Argentina underscores privacy rights in the surveillance age. Plus, the hosts explore new tools for two-factor authentication and the value of affordable data removal services.
14 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 44min
Q&A: How Do You Avoid Amazon?
Discover how to steer clear of Amazon by supporting local businesses while addressing online privacy concerns. Explore the limited privacy-friendly alternatives for popular apps, especially in music streaming. Learn about the challenges of using IPv6 and the significance of proper configuration to ensure security. Delve into balancing your online privacy with professional growth, and get practical tips for maintaining anonymity while building a personal brand. Tune in for insights on safeguarding norms amid technological advancements!
10 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 53min
Dating Safety App Puts Thousands of Users at Risk
A dating safety app designed to protect women ironically exposes thousands of users due to careless security flaws. The discussion includes a significant Microsoft cloud vulnerability affecting organizations and practical advice for online dating safety. New AI developments, such as Proton's privacy-focused assistant, highlight emerging technology's dual role in enhancing and compromising personal security. The conversation also covers alarming trends in cash tracking and malicious malware use, underscoring the prevalence of cybersecurity threats.
12 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 43min
Q&A: Do You Really Need a VPN?
Is a VPN truly essential for online privacy? The hosts dive into the effectiveness of VPNs versus DNS solutions and discuss security vulnerabilities they’ve encountered. They also explore using YouTube Premium privately, evaluating ethical consumerism in tech. Listeners will discover insights on Apple’s Private Relay, recommendations for private AIs, and the challenges of PDF management on Linux. Plus, there's a grab-bag of audience questions covering everything from cloud browsers to secured-core PCs!
10 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 33min
McDonald's Combines the Worst of AI & Job Hunting
An alarming security breach at McDonald's highlights the vulnerabilities of AI in hiring, exposing millions of applicants' data due to inadequate password practices. The discussion also uncovers the frustrations candidates face with automated systems. Meanwhile, Jack Dorsey ventures into encrypted messaging, offering an alternative for privacy-conscious users. Additionally, viewers learn about significant security upgrades in Samsung's software and recent legal challenges impacting user data privacy. It's a dive into the urgent need for improved tech security!
5 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 34min
Android 16 is Adding AI, Even if You Opted Out!
Discover how Android 16 complicates opting out of AI data sharing while a new VPN promises enhanced privacy. Delve into cartels using tech to hunt informants and the troubling shift of China's digital ID to government control. Learn about a legal battle between Proton and Apple over predatory practices, and explore the emergence of a groundbreaking photo management app, Ente, that prioritizes security and encryption. This episode is packed with critical insights on privacy in the digital age.
20 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 25min
Q&A: Top 3 Things We Wish We'd Done Differently
Reflecting on their privacy journeys, the hosts share the top three things they'd do differently. They dive into the debate of whether data is the new oil or gold, emphasizing the importance of viewing privacy as a human right. Practical advice is offered for enhancing mobile security, including Android hardening tips. The discussion also highlights the significance of using encrypted calendars to safeguard personal information. Mistakes are embraced, showcasing the need for a balanced approach to privacy in our daily lives.
19 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 29min
Facebook's Latest Privacy Invasion: Now with AI!
Facebook's new AI initiative aims to access your camera roll for personalized photo management, raising serious privacy concerns. The podcast critiques data collection practices and highlights recent data breaches, advocating for better user privacy. Android 16's new security features assist users in identifying unencrypted connections. A new browser enhances privacy by providing unique IP addresses for each tab. Legal developments, including Texas's Age Verification Law, and cyber threats from groups like Salt Typhoon are also discussed.
23 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 37min
The Biggest Data Breach That Never Happened
Discover the buzz around a supposedly massive data breach that turns out to be a rehashed collection of old credentials. Unravel the dark role of data brokers in enabling political assassination and the implications of emerging technologies on user privacy. Dive into the risks of malware, explore the importance of strong password management, and learn about recent data breaches affecting companies like Krispy Kreme. Plus, uncover cybercriminal tactics that hijack brand websites to mislead unsuspecting users. It's a lively discussion on the intersection of security and technology!
