In this episode, I address listener feedback and corrections regarding use of public Wi-Fi, MAC addresses, and aliases. I dive deep into the nuances of MAC address randomization on GrapheneOS versus Apple’s private Wi-Fi addresses, explaining why GrapheneOS offers superior privacy protection. I discuss the real threats of public Wi-Fi in 2025 (hint: it’s not hackers with Wireshark), and share my approach with aliases.
I also cover the rising threat of infostealers like Atomic Info Stealer for macOS, the dangerous intersection of gaming cheats and malware, and why I avoid third-party antivirus software. Most importantly, I address the GrapheneOS controversy: the loss of a senior developer to military conscription, Google’s strategic pivot that threatens custom ROMs, and why claims of GrapheneOS “dying” are misinformation spread by those with competing agendas.
In this week’s episode:
- Clarifications and Corrections: Public Wi-Fi, MAC addresses, and alias management
- MAC address randomization: GrapheneOS vs Apple’s implementation
- The real threats of public Wi-Fi in 2025
- Info stealers and video games can be a privacy nightmare
- GrapheneOS controversy: Developer conscription, Google’s lockdown, and the future of custom ROMs
- Why antivirus software might be the malware you’re trying to avoid
Matrix Community Rooms
Individual Room Links:
Show Links:
“Social engineering bypasses all technologies, including firewalls.”
- Kevin Mitnick
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What is The Lockdown - Practical Privacy & Security?
Welcome to The Lockdown. Privacy doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. The inability to attain extreme levels of privacy shouldn’t deter one from taking any protective measures at all. The show is hosted by Ray Heffer, an expert in the field of privacy and cybersecurity, with each episode touching on a range of topics such as data privacy, password management, and secure browsing habits. Tin-foil hats are optional!