Are Your Smart Devices Really Spying on You?

Using a bidet may seem a little intimidating to some, but to others it's a way of life.  In this episode, senior staff writer and bidet-convert Doug Mahoney explains why these modern fixtures that wash your bum are a game-changer for hygiene. He shares how they work, what to look for when buying one, and his top recommendations for every budget.  This episode covers: How to choose between cold and  warm-water bidets: They each have their pros and cons. Cold ones are the cheapest and easiest to install, while warm ones are more expensive and offer a luxury experience. What to know about installation: If you can install a regular toilet seat, you can install a cold-water bidet. Warm water bidets are a little trickier, and require access to an outlet. You’ll also want to make sure your toilet has an accessible water shutoff valve.Why it’s worth paying for a reliable brand: Given a bidet is a plumbing fixture, you should buy from a trusted brand, like Toto or Brondell. These companies tend to have reliable products that will last–and that will be less likely to cause leaks and other issues. Why bidets are great for everyone (including those with accessibility issues): A good bidet can make anyone feel cleaner, and they’re particularly helpful for people who have mobility issues – whether that’s a potty training kid, someone recovering from surgery, or an older adult who wants to live longer independently. Products We Recommend: The best bidet: Toto Washlet C5A cheaper Toto with slightly less style: Toto Washlet C2Our new favorite bidet: Toto S5 WashletA cheaper version of our new favorite: Toto S2A great cold water model that replaces your toilet seat: Brondell EcoSeat S101 Non-Electric Bidet SeatA great cold water model to use with an existing toilet seat: Bio Bidet SlimEdge Attachment Additional reading:The 6 Best Bidet Toilet Seats or Washlets of 2025How to Clean A BidetI’ve Installed 25+ Bidets in My Home. Here Are My Tips for Doing It Right.  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

If you’ve ever suspected your smart devices are spying on you, you’re right. In this episode, Jon Chase, Wirecutter's supervising editor for smart home coverage, reveals how even everyday devices you may not consider "smart" are monitoring you. They’re collecting data to build a profile that can then be sold to the highest bidder. The conversation covers: The devices collecting your data: Any device connected to the internet can collect data. This isn’t necessarily malicious; a smart thermostat, for instance, collects data to heat your home more efficiently.How your devices build a profile: Devices use your IP address, online activity, location, and even associations with other people to compile a detailed profile. This profile is often sold to the highest bidder for various reasons.How your smart TV builds on this profile: Modern TVs use automatic content recognition (ACR) to screenshot your screen every few seconds, adding to your data profile. Data brokers mine this info.How to protect your data: Jon shares practical, actionable steps to keep your data safe. He provides specific tips for adjusting privacy settings making more informed choices about the devices you bring home. Products we recommend:Best streaming device if you you want to avoid ACR: Apple TV 4KJon’s favorite power washer: Ryobi RY142500 Brushless 2500 PSI Pressure Washer Additional reading:Yes, Your TV Is Probably Spying on You. Your Fridge, Too. Here’s What They Know.The Best Data Removal ServicesI Tried, and Failed, to Disappear from the InternetCan You Really Disappear Online? We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Natural disasters are becoming more intense and unpredictable. To help you prepare, we’re re-airing this episode on how to build a disaster kit. Wirecutter also just published a handy tool to help you customize an emergency kit specific to your needs, an article on preparing a disaster pantry, and guidance on choosing a generator.   In this episode, Harry Sawyers, who edits Wirecutter’s extensive emergency-preparedness coverage, walks us through the supplies everyone should have on hand to stay comfortable and safe—regardless of the emergency. We break down a basic supply kit that won’t break the bank—you may already own many of these items—and that should help in the face of a power outage, minor flooding, or more-serious disasters.  Plus, Harry introduces us to the wild world of folding hand saws, solar floating lanterns, and weather radios.  Find a full episode description here.  Articles about emergency preparedness: Build Your Own Disaster-Prep KitA Complete Guide to Backup Power, From Portable Power Banks to Standby GeneratorsThe Best Portable GeneratorsHow to Prepare Your Pantry for an Emergency9 Extreme Weather Survivors Share the Tools That Helped Them Get Through DisasterThe LA Wildfires Devastated the Homes of Two Wirecutter Writers. Here’s What They Learned While RecoveringThe Best Emergency Preparedness SuppliesThe Best Gear for Your Bug-Out Bag Everything I Did to Flood-Proof My Old House Products we recommend:Water & FoodBest rigid water container: Reliance Aqua-Tainer 7-GallonLightBest flashlight: ThruNite Archer 2A V3Best floating solar lantern: LuminAid Titan 2-in-1 Power LanternPowerBest portable solar charger: BigBlue 28W USB Solar ChargerToolsBest weather radio: Midland ER310Best multi-tool: Leatherman Skeletool CXFolding saws Harry likes: Silky Pocketboy 130 mm Folding Saw Medium Teeth 340-13,  Silky Professional BIGBOY Folding Saw 360mm Large Teeth (354-36),  Silky Zubat Curved Hand Saw 270mm Large Teeth (270-27)Harry’s favorite recent purchase: Aquatabs  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

This episode, senior kitchen writer Michael Sullivan demystifies all things olive oil. He shares how to navigate the overwhelming olive oil aisle, what “extra virgin” really means, and the best way to store this kitchen staple so it will stay fresh (and won’t go rancid). Whether you're an olive oil aficionado or just looking to improve your everyday cooking, this episode is packed with essential information to help you select and savor better olive oil. The conversation covers: The enemies of olive oil: Learn the "HALT" acronym – Heat, Air, Light, and Time – and how these factors degrade your oil.What to look for on the label: Understand the crucial difference between a harvest date and a "best by" date, and why it matters. Plus, find out why dark bottles or tins are superior to clear glass.The truth about "extra virgin": Michael explains the standards for extra virgin olive oil and the complexities of international regulations, revealing why the quality on your grocery store shelf might not always match the label.How to identify rancid oil: Learn how to recognize the telltale signs of spoiled olive oil, often described as smelling like "Crayola crayons."Storage secrets: Get actionable tips on where not to store your olive oil at home (including right next to your stove and the refrigerator).Country of origin vs. quality: Michael debunks the myth that certain countries always produce the "best" olive oil and encourages listeners to explore different regions and flavor profiles.The Wirecutter tasting process: Hear about how Michael and the Wirecutter team conduct their rigorous, brand-concealed olive oil taste tests.Michael's top tips for shopping: Discover where to find hidden gems in the grocery store and how transparency from producers can be a sign of quality.And for the adventurous, stick around for a live olive oil taste test where Christine, Caira, and Rosie bravely "swirl, sniff, slurp, and swallow" to experience the nuances of different oils, from grassy and peppery to fruity and bitter.Read a full description of this episode and access a transcript here.  Products we recommend:A widely-available olive oil we love: Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil Rich TasteA fruity, buttery oil we love (and is great on fish and salads!): Bono Sicilia PGI Organic Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive OilA balanced green and peppery oil: Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive OilA mild but fresh and silky oil: Cobram Estate California Select Extra Virgin Olive OilMichael’s favorite mail-order oils from Fat Gold Additional reading:The 5 Best Olive Oils You Can Buy at the Store in 2025  Michael SullivanInstagram: /little__michael__  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Tired of creepy crawlies? Wirecutter's pest expert Doug Mahoney reveals the right way to tackle ant and roach infestations. He offers practical advice and debunks common myths (for example, cockroaches aren’t actually the most radiation-resistant insects!). Doug's 4-Step Pest Control Plan:Observe & Identify: Know your enemy! Find their entry points & hotspots. Sawdust + carpenter ants? Call a pro ASAP!Clean Up: Starve 'em out! Secure all food (pet food is a big one!), wipe surfaces constantly. Roaches love protein, ants crave sugar.Seal Entry Points: Block their access! Heavy-duty caulk is your best friend around foundations & pipes.Use Bait (Most Effective!): The ultimate weapon! Baits combine food + slow-acting poison. Ants take it to the colony; roaches share the toxic love (🤢). Place bait where you see 'em most! Avoid:Kill-on-contact sprays: These can make ant problems worse by splitting colonies.Bug bombs/foggers: They don't reach hiding spots and are explosion risks."Natural" remedies (e.g., Diatomaceous earth): Often messy and less powerful than bait. When to Call a Pro: If DIY baits aren't working after a couple of weeks, it's time for an exterminator.More Pest Help: If you need more pest-control help, check out our episodes on combatting mice and rats, and repellents that work against mosquitos and ticks.Access the full show notes for this episode. Products we recommend:Best ant bait traps: Terro T300 Liquid Ant BaitsBest roach bait traps: Terro T500 Multi-Surface Roach BaitsEasy-to-use roach gel: Terro T502 Roach Bait GelSiliconized acrylic latex sealant: Alex Plus 10.1 oz. White Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus Silicone Additional reading:How to Get Rid of Ants, Mice, and Other Pests The 5 Best Roach Killers of 2025The 3 Best Ant Killers of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

In this episode, our guest is Suleika Jaouad, author of The Book of Alchemy and creator of The Isolation Journals Substack. We delve into how journaling can help you unlock creative potential and navigate life’s challenges. Suleika shares her personal journey with journaling as a lifeline during her battle with leukemia and a pathway to "creative alchemy" – transforming difficult experiences into meaningful expression. She highlights the benefits of journaling on mental health, and how it has changed her life.The discussion also explores practical aspects of journaling, from overcoming the fear of a blank page to maintaining consistency through accountability and prompts. Suleika shares her preferred tools—a fountain pen and quality paper—and the rituals that help her stay consistent.. Plus, Wirecutter writer Arriana Vasquez tells us about digital notebooks, an innovative way to modernize the writing experience without sacrificing the tactile pleasure of it. Listeners will gain actionable insights into starting and sustaining a journaling practice.Access the full show notes for this episode here. Products we recommend:The best hardcover notebook: Leuchtturm1917 Hardcover Notebook Classic (A5)The best pen: Uni-ball Jetstream RTThe best digital notebook: Supernote A6 X2 NomadBest for replacing your paper notebooks: reMarkable 2Best for reading and annotating ebooks: Kobo Elipsa 2E Suleika’s favorites: Her current journal: Leuchtturm1917A fountain pen: LamyLe Labo Santal No. 26 CandleThe journals of famous writers she keeps on her desk: Susan Sontag, Virginia Woolf, Audre Lorde, Frida Kahlo and Sylvia Plath Additional reading:Journaling Changed Suleika Jaouad's Life. Here Are Her Tips for Getting Started—and Sticking with It.The 3 Best Digital Notebooks of 2025The 11 Best Notebooks and Notepads for 2025The 7 Best Pens of 2025 More from Suleika Jaouad:Instagram:/suleikajaouadFacebook: /SuleikaJaouadPage Website: https://www.suleikajaouad.com/Substack newsletter: https://theisolationjournals.substack.com/aboutThe Book of Alchemy More from Wirecutter: Instagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ Credits:The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Editing by Abigail Keel. Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. This episode was mixed by Rowan Niemisto. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Nothing says summer like ketchup, chips, and ice cream. In this taste test special, we take a field trip to the Wirecutter test kitchen to sample these items alongside staff experts Antara Sinha, Rachel Wharton and Marguerite Preston—sharing top picks and behind-the-scenes testing moments.Check out a video version of this episode on YouTube!  Products we tasted:Ketchups: The best classic ketchup: Heinz Tomato KetchupThe best organic ketchup: Trader Joe’s Organic Ketchup (Christine’s favorite)Worth considering: 365 by Whole Foods Market Tomato Ketchup Chips: The best plain potato chip: Amazon Fresh Classic Potato Chips (Caira’s favorite)A thin and crispy classic chip for salt lovers: Clancy’s Original Potato ChipsThe best kettle chip: Deep River Snacks Original Sea Salt Kettle Cooked Potato Chips Ice Cream Sandwiches:Best all-around sandwich:  365 Organic Ice Cream Sandwiches (Rosie’s favorite)An ice cream-heavy sandwich: FatBoy Vanilla Ice Cream SandwichA grown-up sandwich: Alden's Vanilla Bean Round Sammies (Marguerite’s favorite)A delicious dairy-free option: So Delicious Vanilla Bean Sandwiches Additional reading:The 3 Best Ketchups of 2025The 9 Best Potato Chips of 2025The 3 Best Ketchups of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Tanya Sichynsky, an editor for New York Times Food and Cooking sections, and editor of The Veggie newsletter, shares her ideas for the best hot-weather-friendly foods to pack for the beach, a picnic, or any outdoor adventure. Plus, surprising hacks for keeping them cool. If you missed our prior episode on beach gear, go back and listen for tips on coolers that will keep your lunch cold all day.  Recipes we recommend:Easy Chickpea SaladD.I.Y. Vegan MayoHot Dogs With Pico de Gallo Extra Green Pasta Salad (use our top pick immersion blender to make it: Braun MultiQuick 7 Immersion Hand Blender MQ7035)Vegan ‘Cheesy’ PopcornHam and Jam SandwichFresh Ranch DipDill Pickle Tzatziki  Additional reading: Check out more of Tanya’s recommendations in her article covering 24 Easy-to-Pack Recipes for Summer Picnics, Beach Days and More.Learn more about Tanya’s gear picks: The Veggie's Editor Dishes on Her Favorite Kitchen Tools The Best Coolers  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

It’s officially beach season. Staff writer Kit Dillion shares his favorite gear to make any beach day, picnic, or pool adventure better, from shelters to chairs to coolers. It’s all about elevating your day in the sun.  Products we recommend:Best versatile weather beach shelter: Sun Ninja Tent 4 PersonBest beach shade shelter for steady wind: Shibumi Shade ClassicBest beach umbrella: BeachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella SystemBest beach umbrella with flaps: Sport-Brella Premiere XLBest budget beach umbrella: Coolibar 6 Foot Intego Beach UmbrellaBest cooler: RTIC 52 QT Ultra-Light CoolerBest cooler upgrade (with wheels): Yeti Tundra Haul Wheeled CoolerBest soft cooler: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 20 CanBest (affordable) beach chair: Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach ChairBest beach chair with more height: Shibumi Beach ChairKit’s favorite beach chair: Yeti Hondo Beach ChairBest beach cart: Mac Sports Heavy Duty Collapsible Folding All Terrain Utility CartBest sand sifter: Treasure Digger Sifter Additional reading:The 5 Best Beach Umbrellas of 2025 The Best Beach Chair Is the Tommy Bahama Backpack ChairThe 6 Best Coolers of 2025 The Best Beach and Pool Toys for Kids and Adults25(ish) Wirecutter Picks for a Summer Beach Day  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast 

Is it even possible to disappear from the internet? Wirecutter writer Max Eddy explains how he tried to do it, why it’s so hard, and what steps you can take to take control of the information that’s out there. Plus, some of the surprising sentimental hurdles he had to overcome during this project.   Things we recommend:Find websites that have exposed your email in a data breach: Have I Been PwnedFind google results with your personal information in them: Google’s Results About You toolThe best password manager: 1PasswordThe best data removal service: DeleteMeCreate masked emails using Apple’s tool or Google’s toolAutomatically delete X posts using CydOn Facebook, retroactively limit who can see your posts, prevent search engine and image search of your content or pull up a log of your interactions on the platform, which lets you delete comments that have become problematic with age. Additional reading:I Tried, and Failed, to Disappear From the Internet7 Simple Ways to Protect Your Digital PrivacyThe 2 Best Password Managers of 2025The 2 Best Two-Factor Authentication Apps of 2025  We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset. Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast