TSA’s new facial recognition system is here, and Zach shares his recent experience opting out of it with ease. We dive into how to protect your privacy during routine travel and why so few people realize they can opt out. Next, we cover mesh network radios and Zach’s experience using Mesh-tastic devices at a packed festival. Learn how these off-grid communication tools let you stay connected in crowded spaces—or even during emergencies—without relying on cellular networks.
A big development on the privacy front: a federal lawsuit in Virginia challenges the constitutionality of mass license plate readers, and we discuss the implications for Fourth Amendment rights. Wired’s recent investigation reveals how these readers are capturing more than just license plates, including political signs, bumper stickers, and even lost pet posters, creating a searchable database of personal information. We explore the dangers of predictive policing and how this data might be used against us.
We also look at the latest in self-driving tech, from Tesla’s new RoboTaxi to Zach’s hunt for a Waymo ride in Las Vegas, along with the potential vulnerabilities of these tech-dependent systems. What happens if a solar flare disrupts GPS and satellite communications? Finally, find out how you can support Banish Big Brother’s mission and bring privacy education to your community, plus some practical steps to protect yourself in an increasingly surveilled world.
Zach Varnell
Zach Varnell is a cybersecurity expert and advocate for privacy and individual liberty. He is a founding member of Banish Big Brother, a nonprofit dedicated to combating invasive surveillance. His insights have been featured in publications like Infosecurity Magazine, Threatpost, ZDNET, and the Washington Examiner.