This episode takes a look at how cybercriminals use psychology to manipulate people through online scams. From phishing emails and phone fraud to romance scams, sextortion, and the rise of AI-driven deepfakes, it unpacks why these scams work and why no one is completely immune. Real-world examples illustrate just how convincing scammers can be, and we discuss the emotions, cognitive biases, and principles of persuasion they exploit. The episode also explores practical ways to recognize these tactics and protect yourself, reminding us that victims are never to blame—awareness is the key defense.

Resources:

Romance scams

https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/fraud/am-i-a-victim-of-a-romance-scam-.html

Sextortion

https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/sexual-crime/sextortion-advice-if-you-are-a-victim.html

Money muling

https://www.garda.ie/en/about-us/organised-serious-crime/garda-national-economic-crime-bureau/money-muling.html

Cyber Crime – advice on other crimes

https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/cyber-crime/

News stories:

https://www.siliconrepublic.com/enterprise/ireland-red-c-win-phishing-scam-survey#:~:text=The%20Worldwide%20Independent%20Network%20of%20Market%20Research,higher%20than%20the%20global%20average%20of%2034pc.

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/aug/04/experience-scammers-used-ai-to-fake-my-daughters-kidnap

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-68705913

https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/fell-into-a-trap-student-money-mule-to-speak-in-schools-after-smishing-scam-court-case-1806411.html

In this episode we dive into ASMR! We discuss the ASMR, the similarities to other auditory and visual trends online. We focus on the content of videos that can induce ASMR, what makes them successful for ASMR-tists and the potential concerns that we might have from an online safety perspective. We review the research on our responses to ASMR triggers and our psychological responses behind why ASMR is the most watched content in 2025!

Resources and Episode Video Examples

• ASMR Reddit
• Vintage Jewelry Counter ASMR
• ASMR Role Play Examples

Research

• Buechele et al., (2025)
• Hozaki et al., (2025)
• Poerio et al., (2018)
• Poerio et al., (2022)
• Jiang et al., (2024)
• Greer et al., (2025)

This episode offers an in-depth exploration of cyberbullying, examining its prevalence, impact, and the evolving nature of online harassment in Ireland and beyond. We discuss the importance of definitions, platforms, and behaviours that have changed, with a focus on the link between increased screen time and rising incidents. The episode also discusses the lasting psychological, educational, and social consequences of cyberbullying, Ireland’s legislative response including Coco’s Law, and essential strategies for prevention, resilience, and building positive school and online cultures.

Resources

• Childline (ISPCC): Free, confidential 24/7 support service for children and young people up to 18. Call 1800 66 66 66, text 50101, or chat online at childline.ie.

• TackleBullying.ie: National anti-bullying initiative providing resources and advice for parents, children, and teachers.

• SpunOut.ie: Youth information website with articles on bullying and mental health; offers free 24/7 text support—Text SPUNOUT to 50808.

• TeenLine: Active listening service for young people, call 1800 833 634 (24/7)

• Pieta House: For crisis mental health support and suicide prevention, Free 24/7 helpline: 1800 247 247.

Research

1. Bullying and cyberbullying studies in the school‐aged population on the island of Ireland: A meta‐analysis (Foody et al., 2017)
2. National Survey of Student Experiences of Bullying in Higher Education (2023)
3. ISPCC National Report On Cyberbullying

This episode explores how extremist ideologies spread online and offline, who is most vulnerable to radicalization, and the pathways that lead people into — and sometimes out of — extremist communities. We discuss the role of social media, traditional media, and even bots in amplifying harmful narratives, as well as the psychological and social vulnerabilities that make individuals more susceptible. We break down the stages of radicalization, from initial uncertainty to community immersion and, in rare cases, violent action. We also considers the impact on families and communities, and what can be done to build resilience and support people away from extremist beliefs.

Content Warning: We discuss real-world examples of radicalisation and violence that may be disturbing or frustrating for some listeners.

Support resources: If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you. Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports

The Samaritans

Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource

Other helpful resources

https://www.factchecking.ie/

European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO)

https://www.medialiteracyireland.ie/training-development/

Research

Global Witness - reports on bot acticvity and disinfomation online

Scrivens, R. & Conway, M. (2019). The roles of ‘old’ and ‘new’ media tools and technologies in the facilitation of violent extremism and terrorism

Borum, R. (2010). Understanding Terrorist Psychology

Schuurman, B. & Carthy, S. L. (2025). Citizens, Extremists, Terrorists: Comparing Radicalized Individuals with the General Population

Booth, E. et al. (2025). Conspiracy, misinformation, radicalisation: understanding the online pathway to indoctrination and opportunities for intervention

In this episode, we explore the complex and often contradictory ways we present ourselves online. Are we the same person across Instagram, LinkedIn, and real life? Do we craft idealized versions of ourselves—or does the digital world give some of us a chance to finally be who we truly are?

From psychological theories of the self to why selfies spark moral panic (and who they target), we dive into the motivations behind online self-presentation. We discuss how authenticity affects well-being, why platforms like BeReal are seen as more “genuine,” and how your sense of identity may shape the way you present yourself on different apps.

We also touch on professional identity, performative posting, and whether “humble bragging” ever really works.

Ultimately, we’re asking: What does your online presence say about your offline self—and what does it say about all of us?

Support resources: If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you. Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports

Key Papers:

Can You See the Real Me? Activation and Expression of the “True Self” on the Internet

Self-concept clarity and online self-presentation in adolescents.

The Relationship Between Self-Concept and Online Self-Presentation in Adults

Authentic self-expression on social media is associated with greater subjective well-being

Charlit Floriano 3d animation research project: Understanding Virtual Bodies – A Case for the Use of Simple & Stylized Avatars in Social VR

In today’s episode, we’re unpacking misinformation from a psychological angle. We’ll talk about what counts as misinformation and disinformation, How “fake news” thrives online, and the Psychological biases that make us vulnerable. The consequences of misinformation on behaviors and society and what’s being done to fight back—from legislation to digital literacy.

Content Warning: We discuss real-world examples of misinformation in health, politics, and social issues that may be disturbing or frustrating for some listeners.

Resources

https://www.factchecking.ie/

European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO)

https://www.medialiteracyireland.ie/training-development/

National Youth Council Report

Research

Kim et al (2023)

Kim et al (2019)

Rocha et al (2021)

We debunk age-related biases. Learn why caution is key, and how with support, older adults can thrive in the digital world, minimizing online risks and maximizing tech benefits.

Resources and Links

AARP Survey

Broady et al (2010) - Comparison of older and younger adults’ attitudes towards and abilities with computers: Implications for training and learning

Baldassar et al (2017) - Aging in place in a mobile world: New media and older people’s support networks

Busch et al (2021) - Smartphone use amongst older adults

Chatterman et al (2019) - Should AI-Based, conversational digital assistants employ social- or task-oriented interaction style? A task-competency and reciprocity perspective for older adults