How Protecting Children Online Created a Privacy Nightmare for Everyone
The UK's Online Safety Act forces millions to hand over passport photos and selfies to private companies just to access games and social media. These companies have poor security records and often transfer your identity documents overseas without proper safeguards. Recent breaches prove this creates "honeypots" for hackers rather than protecting children, while tech-savvy kids bypass checks with VPNs. The government could solve this with a token system like DVLA share-codes, but refuses to admit their approach is fundamentally flawed.
Data Breach Today, Your Problem Tomorrow: Why Victims Deserve More Than Apologies
When your data is stolen in a breach, the company gets fined, but you’re left picking up the pieces. This blog explores the need for a Digital FSCS: a restitution fund for breach victims, inspired by real-world failures and systemic neglect. Includes a free template letter you can send to your MP to call for change.
Who Owns Your Voice?
Your writing style is your fingerprint, and in the age of AI, it can be copied, flattened, or weaponised. This article explores stylometry, voice mimicry, and the risks of outsourcing your voice to AI. Are you protecting your identity... or losing it? Read on to discover why your voice might be more valuable than you think.
The Scammer Who Called Me Back: What a Real Scammer Told Me When He Dropped the Act
A scammer named “Michael” called me back. But instead of trying to con me, he opened up. Over 20 minutes, he revealed his targets, his methods, and a glimpse of the ego and addiction behind the script. This isn't just a scam story, it’s a confessional from inside the game.
When Your AI Becomes Your ID
As AI moves from assisting us to authenticating us, our digital identity becomes both more convenient and more vulnerable. This article explores the promise and peril of AI-powered identity providers, and asks: what happens when your digital assistant becomes the only key to your online life?
We Deserve Better Than Postcards in Cyberspace
Despite years of data protection law and awareness campaigns, organisations still ask people to send highly sensitive documents via insecure email. This post challenges that norm, shares personal experiences, and empowers consumers with a practical checklist and their rights under UK GDPR.
Data Fines Aren’t Justice — They’re Just High-Stakes Monopoly Money
Despite record-breaking fines against tech giants for data misuse, individuals rarely see justice. This post explores the systemic failure of regulatory enforcement to provide restitution, arguing it's time for compensation schemes, opt-out tools, and support for the real victims of data breaches.
How Scammers Weaponise Calm
A calm, professional voice... a few real transaction details... and just enough pressure to catch you off guard. This is the true story of a sophisticated phone scam I experienced ... complete with real audio ... and a breakdown of the tactics scammers use to manipulate trust, isolate victims, and exploit their targets. Even seasoned professionals aren’t immune... and that’s exactly why we need to talk about it.
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