#44 - April 24, 2026 - From Smart Devices to EVs: The Terrifying New Era of Covert Surveillance

In this episode, we dive into the escalating threats surrounding global research security, highlighting a staggering 63% surge in cyber-attacks targeting the education sector worldwide. We unpack a variety of modern espionage and data vulnerabilities, from the unauthorized marketplace sale of 500,000 UK Biobank medical and genetic records to intelligence warnings about compromised everyday smart devices and electric vehicles being used as covert surveillance networks. The discussion also covers how the Pentagon is turning to artificial intelligence to vet tens of thousands of academic research awards for foreign ties , alongside a critical look at the structural funding deficits impacting Canadian universities and the homegrown tech stepping up to protect critical infrastructure. Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of the silent battle for technological and academic sovereignty!