Topic: Data Metadata

Ansgar Köhne from the University of Nottingham discusses the data risks associated with TikTok and WeChat, noting that metadata is as valuable as content. The conversation shifts to a Matt Taibbi article on Substack regarding the "post-objectivity era." Taibbi argues that the proliferation of news channels has forced outlets to pander to narrow, polarized audiences for financial survival.

An analysis of Facebook's massive written response to Congress reveals the extent of their data collection, including mouse movements, battery levels, signal strength, and nearby Wi-Fi beacons. The hosts highlight how Facebook tracks "cross-device" behavior and analyzes the content of photos to serve targeted ads, despite claims of respecting user privacy.