With trust in big tech dwindling, people are looking for services that protect them from external surveillance. And as governments crack down on protest, new forms of digital democracy are emerging. Fully encrypted messaging app Signal is winning trust by giving back power to users.

Netflix’s The Social Dilemma repeats familiar critiques of Big Tech’s surveillance-fuelled, behaviour-shaping business model. But by bringing an elegant yet alarmist version of the story to its vast subscriber base, it's helping the surveillance conversation to break into mainstream consciousness.

The concept of ‘defensive dressing’ might once have evoked images of Kelvar vests or plate armour, but in 2020, protective apparel and accessories have become commonplace as people look to minimise their exposure to COVID-19. How is a desire to stay healthy and safe impacting style choices?

The death of George Floyd and ensuing protests saw companies worldwide attempt to address systemic racism in their messaging – though many faced a tide of consumer cynicism. Semiotics expert Chris Arning explains how brands can meaningfully show their commitment to anti-racist action.