- 18
- Episodes
- 1
- Ratings
- 2024
- First episode
About Digital Activism – Podcast by Acter
{✊} Hack The System is a podcast series by Acter, featuring succinct, engaging discussions with global activists and tech leaders. Acter is a nonprofit association, leveraging technology to support civil society organizations and their ability to drive systemic change. 👉 Learn more on our website (https://www.acter.global/)
- Publisher
- Acter
- Category
- education · society & culture · technology
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 5 Feb 2024
- Latest episode
- 1 Aug 2025
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
1 Aug 2025
The Power of Volunteer Community with My Voice, My Choice
Jo sat down with Lucija Borak from My Voice, My Choice (https://www.myvoice-mychoice.org/) campaign to talk about their European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) and the transformative power of volunteer communities. How did people across EU come together gathering one million signatures for safe & accessible abortion? In this episode, Lucija shares her journey about being part of running this campaign, the unexpected connections she's built along the way, and how campaigning for abortion rights has impacted both her life and the lives of those around her. If you can and want to get involved, please make a donation (https://www.myvoice-mychoice.org/donate) to the campaign, become a volunteer (https://sign.myvoice-mychoice.org/forms/join-myvoice-mychoice/), or at least make sure to follow My Voice, My Choice on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/myvoicemychoiceorg/)! The Power of Volunteer Community with My Voice, My Choice 0:00 /1426.905208 1×
1 Jul 2025
Windows 11 upgrade - Do I really have to?
Host Jo discusses Windows 11 upgrade dilemmas with Acter CTO Ben, exploring hardware requirements, upgrade alternatives, and the option of using Linux, offering listeners solutions for continuing to use their hardware; this is an interview.
5 Jun 2025
Introducing: {✊} Hack the System
The podcast trailer introduces the new name, Hack the System, and previews the podcast's focus on digital activism.
20 May 2025
Privacy-focused Hardware & answering: Should you upgrade your Phone?
In this last part of the "hit the fan"-mini-series, we briefly touch on privacy-focused of vendors of hardware and software, including Laptops and Smartphones. Additionally we try to answer the question, whether you need to upgrade your Phone – in particular if an App told you the Phone version was too old ... Notes & References: PinePhone Pro (https://pine64.org/devices/pinephone_pro/) Framework DYI Laptops (https://frame.work) Slimbook Linux Laptops (https://slimbook.com/en/) End Of Life of Operation Systems: Android (https://endoflife.date/android), iOS (https://endoflife.date/ios) Privacy-focused Hardware vendors & Should you upgrade your phone? 0:00 /792.546312 1×
6 May 2025
EU Privacy Regulations & Big Tech claims on privacy
In today's episode of the "💩 hit the fan"-miniseries we look at privacy regulation, in particular in the European Union, specifically the GDPR and the Digital Markets Regulation Act – what does that mean and what effect does it have for us "consumers". After we look a hard look at privacy-claims of Big Tech and whether we can trust those by looking back on previous claims they made, in particular how they clawed back any climate neutrality targets they had. Notes & References: Unlike said in the podcast, Google's plan was to be NetZero by 2030 (not 2025), but is failing either way, citing AI (https://apnews.com/article/climate-google-environmental-report-greenhouse-gases-emissions-3ccf95b9125831d66e676e811ece8a18) (AP, July 2024). TheVerge, Jan 2025: Apple brings Alternate Stores to iOS in Europe (https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/25/24050200/apple-third-party-app-stores-allowed-iphone-ios-europe-digital-markets-act) CNN, Sept 2024: Microsoft wants to re-open Three Mile Island (https://edition.cnn.com/2024/09/20/energy/three-mile-island-microsoft-ai/index.html) 💩 hit the fan: EU regulation and big tech privacy claims 0:00 /808.232291 1×
14 Apr 2025
Acter @ Progress Reimagined Podcast: Social Movements in Dangerous Times
We have a special episode for you; our Executive Director Emil Vincentz (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABsNnbIBYTcWPPVXWnsaWQdQwlRV1g-oWyc)had the pleasure of being interviewed by Kathleen Chu f (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAAAXBAr0B2XUzaswAr0xkcRrvKA90azP4Opg)or her podcast Progress Reimagined! Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. Listen now this great conversation about the challenges of digital organizing in an era of increased authoritarianism, the importance of secure and usable tools, and how decentralized technology can help preserve activist spaces. Key Topics: -The difference between mobilizing vs. organizing in social movements -How current digital tools shape activist organizing (often not for the better) -Matrix protocol and decentralized technology for movement security -Designing technology that respects user attention and privacy -Security challenges for activists in restrictive environments -Creating sustainable movement structures that don't rely on individuals -Balancing usability with security in activist technology Make sure to follow and subscribe to Progress Reimagined for future discussions: Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined) RSS feed for podcast platforms (https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2404729.rss) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/progress_reimagined/) BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/kathleenchu.bsky.social) Substack (https://substack.com/@progressreimagined) Acter @ Progress Reimagined Podcast: Social Movements in Dangerous Times 0:00 /3007.067 1×
10 Apr 2025
Privacy-focused Software, in particular browsers & search engines
In this 💩 hit the fan mini-series we continue the discussion from last time and dive deeper into the practical aspects of privacy focused software. While last time we spoke about why that matters in the first place, this episode looks at what you want to do as an activists, and in particular how you to best pick a privacy-focused software and which choices you have to make in that process. Additionally we will cover the detriment state that the second browser war (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Browser_wars#Second_browser_war_(2004%E2%80%932017)) left us with – spoiler: even the former champion Firefox is not on a good path anymore – and discuss search engines. Further Reading Firefox Browser (https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/) recommended: The uBlock Origin Add blocker (https://www.privacyguides.org/en/browser-extensions/#ublock-origin) extension LibreWolf Browser (https://librewolf.net/) The deal between Google and Firefox (https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-05-05/why-google-keeps-paying-mozilla-s-firefox-even-as-chrome-dominates) Privacy focused tool alternatives (https://www.privacyguides.org/en/tools/) Privacy alternative Search Engines (https://www.privacyguides.org/en/search-engines/) Privacy focused software, in particular browsers and search engines 0:00 /1451.013729 1×
3 Apr 2025
Intro to privacy-focused Software, basics of Phone Tracking
In this short episode, Jo and Ben are talking about what makes a Software privacy-focused, what to look for when making these choices and what drawbacks to expect. We'll also briefly cover the basics of how apps can track your specific smartphone. Further Reading: How to disable Advertiser ID on your Smartphone (https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2022/05/how-disable-ad-id-tracking-ios-and-android-and-why-you-should-do-it-now) by the EFF Wikipedia on IMEI (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Mobile_Equipment_Identity) Acter Podcast: Intro to privacy focused software, basics of Cell-Phone tracking 0:00 /873.439187 1×
28 Mar 2025
Post US-Government Group-Chat-Leak Special: Is Signal messenger insecure?
Due to a mishandling of sensitive Information by the Trump Administration, Signal Messenger is in the press the last few days. The end-to-end-encrypted messenger is also very popular among activists. Unfortunately there is some misleading reporting implying that Signal is less secure than previously thought – we were also personally asked about this. Prompting us to make a special episode to discuss what happened, what the reporting is about and whether activists should switch to something else. Spoiler: No. Signal is secure. Additionally we cover what that might mean for the Signal Organization and what we can learn from the incident for our own Operational Security for Activists. More in the episode 😃 . Resources: 404 Media: When your Threat Model is being Moron (https://www.404media.co/when-your-threat-model-is-being-a-moron-signal/) Wikipedia Article about the Group-Chat-Leak (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_government_group_chat_leak) Signals response on mastodon (https://mastodon.world/@signalapp/114225505722405927) Special is signal secure 0:00 /1421.790104 1×
18 Mar 2025
WhatsApp vs Signal, Chat Group Security Practices & What to do when you got compromised
In this 21min podcast episode Ben, Acter CTO and Lead Product, and Jo, Community Lead of Acter, talk about the Security of WhatsApp vs. Signal, share tips on Chat Group Security and what to do when you got compromised. ?! Need help right now ?! 👉 GlobalSupport.Link support desk (https://guide.globalsupport.link/) 👉 AccessNow Help Line (https://www.accessnow.org/help/) 👉 Amnesty International Security Lab (https://securitylab.amnesty.org/) Resources Report by Amnesty about Unauthorized Access to Phones by Serbian Security Forces (https://securitylab.amnesty.org/latest/2024/12/a-digital-prison-surveillance-and-the-suppression-of-civil-society-in-serbia/) hatsApp vs Signal, Chat Group Security Practices & What to do when you got compromised 0:00 /1364.902041 1×
2 Mar 2025
Activists Device Security Hygiene, Encryption and Password-Managers
In this 20min podcast episode Ben, Acter CTO and Lead Product, and Jo, Community Lead of Acter, talk about the Device Security Hygiene for Activist, Encryption, Password-Manager and why you should use one, and 2-Factor-Authentication. ?! Need help right now ?! 👉 GlobalSupport.Link support desk (https://guide.globalsupport.link/) 👉 AccessNow Help Line (https://www.accessnow.org/help/) 👉 Amnesty International Security Lab (https://securitylab.amnesty.org/) Resources How to Encrypt your Phone (https://ssd.eff.org/module/how-encrypt-your-iphone) and Computer (https://ssd.eff.org/module/how-encrypt-your-windows-device) (Surveillance Self-Defense Project by the EFF) Has your password been leaked: HaveIbeenPawned.com (https://haveibeenpwned.com/) Best Password Managers (https://www.privacyguides.org/en/passwords/) in Privacy Guides KeePassXC (https://keepassxc.org/) Open Source Password Manager Why SMS isn't secure (https://www.howtogeek.com/709373/why-sms-text-messages-arent-private-or-secure/) by HowToGeek Device Security Hygiene & Password Managers for Activists 0:00 /1194.770562 1×
18 Feb 2025
Basics of Activists Safety & Security: Threat Modeling
In this 25min podcast episode Ben, Acter CTO and Lead Product, and Jo, Community Lead of Acter, talk about the basics of Activist Security & Safety: Thread Modeling, some basic understanding of threads around you and some first hand tips. ?! Need help right now ?! 👉 GlobalSupport.Link support desk (https://guide.globalsupport.link/) 👉 AccessNow Help Line (https://www.accessnow.org/help/) 👉 Amnesty International Security Lab (https://securitylab.amnesty.org/) Resources (https://haveibeenpwned.com/) Guide to Thread modeling: https://www.privacyguides.org/en/basics/threat-modeling/ (https://www.privacyguides.org/en/basics/threat-modeling/) Thread Modeling in the Activist Handbook: https://activisthandbook.org/tools/security (https://activisthandbook.org/tools/security) Access Now Thread Modeling workshop: https://www.accessnow.org/first-look-at-digital-security/ (https://www.accessnow.org/first-look-at-digital-security/) Has your password been leaked: HaveIbeenPawned.com (https://haveibeenpwned.com/) Surveillance Self-Defense by the Electronic Frontier Foundation: https://ssd.eff.org/ (https://ssd.eff.org/) Privacy Guides: https://www.privacyguides.org/en/ (https://www.privacyguides.org/en/) Threat Modeling for Activists 0:00 /1535.332583 1×
3 Feb 2025
Trailer: 💩 hit the fan
We are bringing back the "Digital Activism – podcast by Acter" and kick it off with a mini series "💩 hit the fan". Where Ben (CTO and Product Lead) and Jo (Community Lead) will discuss what activists can do now to stay safe online, protect their work and privacy and what else matters. More in this quick trailer. Subscribe now, either here via RSS (https://acter.global/podcast/rss/) or wherever you get your podcasts, to not miss any episode of that upcoming mini series. Trailer: 💩 hit the fan 0:00 /56.24127 1×
10 Apr 2024
Navigating Digital Activism: Insights from Activist Handbook with Joppe
The digital age has brought about transformative ways for activists to mobilize, connect, and enact change. In our latest podcast episode, we dive deep with Joppe, an activist at heart and a key contributor to the Activist Handbook, to understand the nuances of digital activism. This conversation isn't just about celebrating achievements; it's a critical reflection on the journey of activism in the digital realm. Here's a closer look at the rich insights and discussions from the episode. Digital Activism: More Than Just Hashtags A Collective Resource: The Activist Handbook Joppe shares the vision behind the Activist Handbook as more than a repository of information. It's a collaborative effort that thrives on the contributions and collective wisdom of activists from various backgrounds. The handbook aims to be a living document that evolves with the challenges and needs of the activist community. The Interplay of Strategy, Action, and Reflection One of the critical insights from the conversation is the balance between strategy, action, and the often-overlooked aspect of reflection in activism. Joppe emphasizes that impactful activism is not impulsive; it requires thoughtful planning, committed action, and, importantly, periods of reflection to understand what works and what doesn’t. The Vital Role of Community and Support A standout theme from the episode is the undeniable importance of community and support networks in activism. Joppe touches on how activism, at its core, is about building relationships—connecting with others who share your vision and supporting each other through challenges and victories. Key Takeaways Beyond the Digital Realm: Digital activism is a powerful tool for mobilization but achieving lasting change often requires action offline as well. Collaborative Learning and Sharing: The Activist Handbook exemplifies the importance of sharing knowledge and resources in a movement that's constantly evolving. Balanced Approach to Activism: The journey of activism is as much about strategic planning and action as it is about reflection and adaptation. Starting a Movement: Activism is accessible to everyone; it doesn’t require special qualifications, just a commitment to cause and action. The Double-Edged Sword of Technology: While technology can connect us, the value of local, on-the-ground support networks cannot be overstated. Clear Communication and Boundaries: Setting clear expectations and boundaries within activist organizations is crucial for alignment and avoiding conflicts. Consensus vs. Consent: The discussion highlights the nuances between consensus in collective decision-making and consent in individual agreement. Secure Communication: Tools like Signal and Slack are emphasized for their role in facilitating secure and effective communication among activists. The Importance of Being Informed: Engaging with a wide range of information sources is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the socio-political landscape. Guest Recommendations: Future discussions could benefit from voices like activist.org and the EFF, reflecting the diversity and challenges of digital activism. Reflections This podcast episode with Joppe offers a nuanced exploration of digital activism, far removed from the often superficial portrayal of online movements. It's a reminder that behind every tweet, post, or digital campaign, there's a need for thoughtful strategy, community building, and reflection. As we continue to navigate the digital landscape, these insights serve as valuable guides for activists looking to make a meaningful impact in today’s interconnected world. Where to listen? You can listen to Digital Activism wherever you get your podcasts or right here: Joppe – Capacity Building for Activists 0:00 /2567.288125 1×
8 Apr 2024
Joppe – Capacity Building for Activists
Joppe, co-founder of Activist Handbook, is a guest in the new episode. The non-profit organisation’s platform is a kind of Wikipedia for activists. Here you can find guides, useful resources and digital tools to empower activists around the world. Together with Jules, Joppe talks about capacity building for activists. It’s about the importance of digital activism and the role of technology in activism, as well as the value of communities, collaboration and knowledge sharing. Acter website (https://www.acter.global/) Acter on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/acter-global/) Acter on GitHub (https://github.com/acterglobal/a3)
13 Mar 2024
Ben & Lautaro – Two activists talk about Loss & Damage
In our new podcast episode, climate activists Ben from the U.S. and Lautaro from Argentina talk about the loss and damage caused by the climate crisis. They emphasize the urgency of tackling climate issues globally, holding those responsible to account, and addressing the impact of the climate crisis on communities around the world. The discussion also focuses on establishing the Loss and Damage Fund, the results of the COP conference and taking action, especially as young people. Listen to our new episode wherever you get your podcast, or right here: Luarato and ben podcast 0:00 /2223.281625 1×
13 Mar 2024
Ben & Lautaro – The crucial role of youth activism in fighting the climate crisis
In our new podcast episode, climate activists Ben and Lautaro talk about the loss and damage caused by the climate crisis. They emphasise the urgency of tackling climate issues globally, holding those responsible to account and addressing the impact of the climate crisis on communities around the world. The discussion also focuses on the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund, the results of the COP conference and taking action, especially as young people. Acter website (https://www.acter.global/) Acter on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/acter-global/) Acter on GitHub (https://github.com/acterglobal/a3)
5 Feb 2024
Liam | Climate 2025 – fiscal hosting for activist groups
In this episode, Liam discusses the concept of digital activism and the risks and opportunities it presents. He also explains the role of Climate 2025 (https://www.climate2025.org/) in supporting activists and the importance of fiscal hosting for activist groups. Liam provides insights into when and how to consider fiscal hosting and the benefits it offers. He shares advice on developing a funding strategy and highlights the availability of funding for activists. Liam also discusses the use of digital tools for fundraising and the importance of remote work and communication in the digital age. Acter website (https://www.acter.global/) Acter on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/acter-global/) Acter on GitHub (https://github.com/acterglobal/a3)
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- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 22 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 21
- Social presence
- 0
- YouTube
- 0
- Engagement
- 60
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