#TBOT 21: Epstein Files Update, ICE Expands Clearview AI, Ring + Flock Cancel After Backlash, Fungal Computing with Mushrooms

#TBOT 21: Epstein Files Update, ICE Expands Clearview AI, Ring + Flock Cancel After Backlash, Fungal Computing with Mushrooms

Author: The most important weekly tech news + solutions. February 24, 2026 Duration: 36:54

Here are this week’s stories:

What We Can Learn from Epstein’s Privacy:The DOJ has released millions of pages tied to the Epstein case, with more still held back. Beyond how sick and despicable the content is, the files show something else: the arrogance, the infrastructure, and the sloppy operational security behind closed doors. We look at how the emails were obtained, where to find the datasets, and what the records reveal about how Epstein operated.

ICE’s Clearview AI Contract:CBP just purchased a new contract with Clearview AI, expanding face search at the border using what you post online. This new contract goes live in September 2026, building on previous ICE contracts. Be mindful of what photos you post online, because they can be used against you.

Flock + Ring Cancel Partnership After Super Bowl Backlash:Amazon pushed a feel-good surveillance ad, and people hated it. The planned Ring and Flock integration has now been cancelled, and the doublespeak is incredible. We break down what the integration would have enabled, what Ring is still doing with police, and why the wording in their statements matters.

Fungal Computing with Mushrooms:Researchers are testing common store-bought mushrooms as bioelectronics, exploring “fungal computing” and memristor-like behavior. With e-waste exploding and recycling still broken, organic and biodegradable electronics could change the game.

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Hakeem Anwar hosts The #TBOT Show, a weekly podcast dedicated to cutting through the noise of the tech world. Instead of just reporting headlines, this show focuses on the technology news that actually shapes your daily routine, privacy, and digital freedom, explaining why it matters in clear terms. Each episode is designed to be concise and actionable, wrapping up in under twenty minutes. You’ll hear informed analysis and straightforward recommendations on how to navigate the week’s developments. True to its mission, every installment also provides a practical takeaway: this might be a powerful open-source tool you can use, a privacy-enhancing skill to learn, or a sustainable tech solution to implement. It’s a blend of necessary context and usable insight, making it a resource for anyone who wants to understand and take back control of their tech life. Tune in for a focused, efficient update that prioritizes depth over duration, ensuring you stay informed without being overwhelmed. This podcast delivers exactly what its author promises: the most important weekly tech news paired with tangible solutions.
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