In the final episode of the Dark Web series, we explore the role of Law Enforcement Agencies on the Dark Web. We discuss the technical and jurisdictional challenges that face securities agencies and the methods employed to overcome these challenges. Furthermore, we discuss investigative techniques using real life examples including Open Source Intelligence, Hacking and Undercover strategies. Finally, we explore the ways in which securities agencies collaborate to ensure successful investigations of criminals on the dark web. 

In the second episode of the Dark Web Series, we dive deeper into the world of the dark web by exploring what it is most known for, its marketplaces. We discuss various examples of dark web marketplaces and products for sale including drugs, personal data, art and cultural artefacts. We examine how transactions on dark marketplaces occur, specifically looking at the vital role of cryptocurrencies. Finally, we explore how marketplaces on the dark web foster trust amongst users and sellers through self regulation. 

Sources: 

In the brand new series of the Ars Aequi Podcast, our colleague Catherine Altobelli joins us as we explore the mysterious and dubious world of the Dark web. We take a deep dive into the history of the Dark Web and discuss government influences in the popularity and accessibility of the Dark Web. We explore the technical aspects of the Dark Web and examine the paradox between its privacy related benefits and the criminality that has developed as a result. Finally, we address the legality of the Dark web and explore the tactics adopted by law enforcement to enforce law and order in what is often described as an ungovernable arena. 

Sources: 

In the final episode of the Tech for Good Series, we explore Internet Accessibility and the overall goal of creating an online space, which can be used by all without restrictions regardless of physical, mental or technical limitations. We investigate the legal and technological tools that are being implemented to create a barrier-free web. Finally, using the Google tool Lighthouse, we investigate the accessibility of 100 different websites including the website of our Department. This episode presents the issue of internet accessibility to all able-bodied people who may not be aware of the challenges facing marginalized groups in our society and online. Given the importance of the internet in our everyday lives, inclusivity and accessibility for all should always be a priority.

Sources:

In this episode of the Tech for Good Series, we explore the impact of technology on the landscape of protests and civil organisation. We examine the positive and negative effects that developments in communication technology and social media have had on mobilisation and protests. We discuss the use of technology as an anti-protest device to supress movements using facial recognition, drones and internet shutdowns. Finally, we provide our listeners with some tech for good solutions, which can be used as digital self-defence mechanisms.

Sources: 

It important to understand as a User that everything on the internet is fighting for your attention and for access to your data. Due to the value of your data, companies often design their User Interface with the intention to induce or deceive you for their benefit and to your detriment. These actions are referred to as ‘DARK PATTERNS’, a term coined by Harry Brignull in 2010. In this episode of the Tech for Good Series, we discuss different types of dark patterns and their effects on us as Users. We highlight Tech for Good solutions that are aimed at combatting dark patterns and creating a better User experience. We also explore the legal framework, which aims to regulate the issue of dark patterns and provide with more insights into your rights as a Data Subject.

Sources

Dark Patterns:

Tech for Good Solutions:

In this special episode of the Ars Aequi Podcast we explore the recent large-scale user data breach which has affected approximately 533 million Facebook accounts. We discuss the context of the data breach and how personal data was ‘scraped’ from Facebook's user profiles. We provide helpful information on how to check if you have been affected by this breach and steps to ensure the safety of your data in the future. Finally, we critique Facebook's lack-luster response to this data breach and explore possible legal consequences which the company could face. 

To check whether you have been affected by this data breach: https://haveibeenpwned.com/

Sources: Data Breach information:

Facebook's response :

Data Protection Sources:

The Ars Aequi Podcast is proud to present, Tech for Good a brand new podcast series focused on building a better tomorrow with tech.

In this series, we will be talking with Entrepreneurs, Innovators and Activists who are leveraging technology as a tool for social, political and environmental impact. In episode one, we tackle the serious social issue of gender-based violence (GBV) and talk to two innovators, Moritz and Nkhanyiso who have created technological products aimed at combatting gender-based violence. 

Moritz Krüsselmann is a German Lawyer and co-founder of the German platform Dickstinction, an online platform that allows victims to report unsolicited dickpics and guides victims through all the necessary steps to file a criminal complaint. 

Nkanyiso Dlamini is a South African Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Tech company eMfundi. eMfundi recently launched the N3 SMART NAIL, an LED nail tip with a built in microchip. Designed as a quick, subtle way to send your location to emergency personnel when in a dangerous situation.  

https://emfundi.com/.

In episode 3 of the Surveillance Series, we tackle the topic of Smart Homes and Surveillance. Many argue that a Smart Home is inevitably a home under surveillance. This episode explores the extent to which this statement is true and provides clarity on the question that plagues most consumers, “are my smart devices spying on me”.

On episode 2 of the Surveillance Series we are joined by our colleague and friend, Antoni Napieralski to discuss the Surveillance of Travelers. As we move around from country to country vast amounts of data is collected and stored about us, in this episode we take a deep dive into the life cycle of this data. We explore this from the perspective of EU and Non-EU citizens, looking specifically at the Visa Information System, Passenger Name Records and the Entry/Exit-System. Furthermore, we explain the new proposed changes to these systems and the introduction of new databases in Europe.

Sources: