The Download: presenting the Crime edition

The intersection of technology and crime has long been a cat-and-mouse scenario. However, the innovative technologies that enable crime to surpass legal measures have simultaneously revitalized law enforcement and governmental bodies—providing fresh approaches to eliminate crime, collect evidence, and monitor individuals.

This dynamic is central to our upcoming March/April edition. With the advent of cryptocurrencies and readily available autonomous autopilots, individuals have unprecedented opportunities to engage in criminal activities. Meanwhile, widespread surveillance and digital frameworks present new means to combat these issues—occasionally compromising what we once regarded as essential civil liberties.

Here’s a preview of what awaits:

+ The intriguing account of cyber security analyst Allison Nixon’s efforts to locate the elusive online individuals who threatened her life. Discover the full tale.

+ While AI facilitates online criminal activities, the claims regarding AI-enhanced mega-hacks are significantly exaggerated. Here’s the explanation.

+ Explore the shadowy aspects of crypto’s unregulated ideal.

+ In Chicago, an extensive monitoring network tracks residents through tens of thousands of surveillance cameras. Law enforcement argues it’s crucial for public safety, but privacy advocates have equated it to a surveillance state. Read the complete article.

+ Modern thieves are snatching luxury vehicles right from beneath the noses of manufacturers and owners. What’s their method?

+ How unmanned narco submarines are likely to transform drug smuggling tactics. 

+ Learn how cutting-edge conservationists are employing technology to counter wildlife traffickers—including by making rhinos radioactive. 

Why 2026 could mark the rise of sodium-ion batteries

Sodium-based batteries present a more cost-effective, safer alternative to lithium-ion, and this technology is starting to be utilized in vehicles and energy storage systems across the grid.

They rank among MIT Technology Review‘s 10 Breakthrough Technologies for 2026, and we’re hosting an exclusive subscriber Roundtables discussion to delve into the reasons. Join our science editor Mary Beth Griggs, senior climate reporter Casey Crownhart, and China correspondent Caiwei Chen to discuss the current landscape of sodium-ion batteries—and what lies ahead. 

We’ll be broadcasting live at 1pm ET this afternoon—register today!

Key reads

I have searched the web for today’s most entertaining/significant/alarming/captivating tales regarding technology.

1 The Pentagon has issued an ultimatum to Anthropic
Either grant the US military full access to Claude, or face repercussions. (Axios)
+ Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated he may sever ties. (WSJ $)
+ In response, Anthropic has reportedly denied to lift military limitations. (Reuters)

2 Meta has secured a major agreement with AMD
Just days after it pledged to utilize millions of Nvidia chips for its AI initiatives. (CNBC)

3 How Jeffrey Epstein insinuated himself into Microsoft’s senior leadership
He had access to sensitive insider conversations concerning internal dynamics and offered insights on the CEO succession line. (NYT $)
+ A blockbuster podcast about the Epstein files is entirely produced by AI. (Fast Company $)

4 AI-assisted cheating is simply part of student life
Young people frequently seek out—and might become reliant on—AI assistance. (WP $)
+ It’s essential to discuss AI with your child. Here are 6 points to consider. (MIT Technology Review)

5 How Ukraine established a complete drone industry from zero 
And aims to market its expertise to Western allies after the conflict concludes. (New Scientist $)
+ Europe’s drone-infused outlook on the future of warfare. (MIT Technology Review)

6 The FDA has lifted a warning concerning ineffective autism treatments
The notice cautioned Americans about alternative remedies like chlorine dioxide. (Undark)

7 Solar energy is thriving in the US
Utilization increased by 35% last year compared to the prior year. (Ars Technica)

8 How substantial is infinity?
Perhaps it doesn’t conform to one standard size. (Quanta Magazine)

9 Caution: someone close to you is wearing smart glasses
That’s the core idea behind the novel app Nearby Glasses, which identifies the devices’ Bluetooth signals. (404 Media)

10 Uber staff are running concepts past an AI representation of their CEO
Completely typical. (Insider $)
+ Synthesia’s AI clones are now more expressive than ever. Soon they will respond. (MIT Technology Review)

Quote of the day

“This has nothing to do with mass surveillance and autonomous weapons utilization.”

—A high-ranking defense official informs the Washington Post that the Pentagon hasn’t suggested using any of Anthropic’s AI tools in ways that aren’t unethical, following the department’s threat to compel the organization to share its resources.

One final note

A research team is striving to extend the lifespan of pet dogs—and their owners

Matt Kaeberlein is what many would categorize as a dog enthusiast. Having grown up with dogs, he regards his German shepherd, Dobby, as “truly exceptional.” However, Dobby is now 14 years old—equivalent to about 98 in dog years.

Kaeberlein serves as co-director of the Dog Aging Project, an ambitious initiative aimed at monitoring the aging process of tens of thousands of companion dogs across the United States. He is among the few scientists endeavoring to enhance, postpone, and potentially reverse this process to ensure they enjoy longer, healthier lives.

And dogs represent just the start. Eventually, this research may pave the way for extending human lifespans. Read the complete report.

—Jessica Hamzelou

We can still enjoy nice things

A space for comfort, enjoyment, and distraction to enhance your day. (Have any suggestions? Drop me a message or connect with me.)

+ Just when dinosaur eggshells seemed fascinating enough, they prove useful as aging indicators for other fossils.
+ This week marks what would have been Steve Jobs’ 71st birthday. His Stanford Commencement Speech remains outstanding.
+ I need to play Capybara Simulator right away: a game where you become a capybara.
+ Great news—looks like we’ve averted a bananapocalypse 🍌