Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: What AI Code Says About Us All
A thoughtful response to the “AI slop” debate. Drawing on lessons from the offshoring era and a late-night interview with my AI assistant Sol, this post explores what developers must do to stay relevant, and responsible, in a world where code is generated faster than it’s understood.
From Ciphertext to Seaside: Cracking RSA with Pen and Python
A hands-on RSA cryptography walkthrough ... from toy examples to real-world puzzle solving using Fermat’s factorisation. Learn how a weak key and some clever maths reveal a hidden English town.
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.
🏥 When Trust Gets Hacked, What the M&S Breach Tells Us About Modern Retail Risk
In the wake of the M&S data breach, it’s clear retailers are still collecting excessive personal data while offering little accountability when things go wrong. This post explores the real risk to consumers, regulatory shortcomings, and why it's time for a digital FSCS-style safety net.
Caller ID Is Dying. Long Live Caller ID. (Plain English Version)
The number on your screen might not be who you think it is. Caller ID can be faked — and increasingly is. This plain-English guide explains how spoofing works, what a SIM swap is, and what steps you can take to stay safe without needing to be a tech expert.
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.
Is AI Really the Energy Villain? (Plain English Edition)
AI gets a lot of heat for using too much electricity — but is that fair? This plain-English guide breaks down how AI energy use compares to YouTube, TikTok, and social media. The results may surprise you.
Is AI Really the Energy Villain?
Is AI really the energy hog it’s made out to be? This blog explores the real energy impact of LLMs like ChatGPT, comparing it with always-on digital habits like YouTube, TikTok, and cloud gaming. Backed by data, this piece calls for balanced scrutiny, not headlines.
Port, Paper, Scissors: A Code 10 Story
Back in the 90s, I worked retail to fund uni nights at the bar. One day, a man walked in, picked a cheap bottle of Port, and handed me a stolen card. I called “Code 10” — expecting a fight. What I got was something far more human… and unforgettable.
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