KMUD - Tech Mud

In this episode of Tech Mud, Garth and Rick focus on digital privacy in 2026 and how surveillance tech, AI systems, traffic cameras, and everyday apps are collecting more data than most people realize. The discussion is shaped by live caller questions about monitoring, data tracking, and practical ways to protect personal information. As always, it is a grounded look at the good, the bad, and the downright paranoid of technology.

In this episode of Tech Mud, Garth and Rick dig into real-world tech topics shaped by listener call-ins, including questions about security cameras, traffic monitoring, and how surveillance tech is increasingly showing up in everyday life. They also reflect on where AI landed in 2025, what proved useful, and what didn’t. From privacy concerns to practical tech decisions, the conversation stays grounded, local, and focused on how technology actually affects people day to day.

In this episode of Tech Mud, Garth and Rick look back at the AI landscape of 2025, what actually mattered, and what turned out to be hype. Along the way, they dig into real-world tech issues, cybersecurity concerns, and everyday device headaches, while taking live calls and listener questions. As always, it’s an honest look at the good, the bad, and the downright paranoid of technology.

Garth & Rick discuss the pros and cons of Linux, including how it can revive old hardware and keep it out of the e-waste pile. They also dive into what we can look forward to—or fear—in the tech world under the new presidential administration. Big local news: Garberville and Redway are officially getting fiber-to-the-home! It’s not just a rumor—high-speed internet is coming. Plus, we explore emerging technology trends, cybersecurity concerns, and digital privacy issues. Tune in for insights, debates, and live tech Q&A from the KMUD audience!  

Garth and Rick briefly attempt to discuss CES before diving into the massive amount of fake AI-generated videos and photos circulating online about the SoCal fires. They also explore corporate news stories and how they often appear identical. Throughout the show, they take calls to answer listener questions and debate conspiracy theories, such as lasers from space.

Tech News for the last 30 days and last minutes gifts for Christmas shopping with shipping deadlines and some item suggestions.

Join Garth and Rick on Tech Mud as they explore the latest in technology and its effects on our daily lives. In this episode: Local Business Faces a $70K Scam Attempt – Learn how a Humboldt business narrowly avoided disaster and what you can do to protect yourself. What Router Should You Buy? Undersea Cable Cut Controversy – The latest on accusations against a Chinese ship allegedly responsible for severing critical undersea communications cables. Big Tech Goes Nuclear – Discover why major tech companies are turning to nuclear power to meet the rising energy demands of AI.

Garth and Rick dive into the latest tech news during the KMUD membership drive.Garth shares a personal story about his inkjet printer downloading a firmware update that now blocks cheaper generic ink cartridges "for his protection"—thanks, HP!Verizon is set to acquire our local landline phone company (again). Will phone service improve?They also explore the tech implications of Israel's intelligence service infiltrating the supply chain and allegedly installing explosives in pagers and other devices.Discussions about KOSA (Kids Online Safety Act) and what it means for online safety.

Garth and Rick take calls and dive into the latest tech news.A local listener was using an enormous amount of data, only to discover it was due to a hacked camera in their home—scary!They also discuss new battery technologies and the startling news that AI is now capable of rewriting its own code, changing the rules it follows.CrowdStrike caused massive disruptions, including Microsoft BSODs, affecting over 3,500 flights, 911 lines, hospitals, and transit systems.In addition, it's been revealed that nearly every Social Security number has been leaked—freeze your credit! It's fairly easy, so just do it.

Garth and Rick discuss how modern cars are spying on you and the massive profits the industry is making by buying and selling the data your car collects.They also cover local news about social engineering scams on Facebook, which have targeted many locals and resulted in people being locked out of their Meta platform accounts.In addition, they dive into other tech news, including multiple cases of hidden cameras being discovered in Airbnbs.

This episode from June 19th, 2024 covers topics such as the installation of Starlink Gen 3, issues with PG&E, a toothbrush rendered unusable by an Amazon update, and the growing problem of e-waste. They also discuss the controversial new feature in Windows 11 that takes screenshots every few minutes. Tune in for these discussions and more, and hear from our on-air callers with their own tech questions and insights.