The Download: introducing the Crime issue

MIT Technology Review

by Rhiannon Williams

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Download’s latest issue dives into the complex interplay between technology and crime, exploring how advancements in tech have created new opportunities for criminal activity while simultaneously empowering law enforcement with innovative tools. The article highlights how technologies like cryptocurrency, autonomous drones, and surveillance systems have made it easier for criminals to outmaneuver traditional law enforcement, but also notes how these same tools are being repurposed by authorities to combat crime more effectively than ever before. This tension between innovation and regulation is at the heart of the issue, raising important questions about the balance between public safety and individual privacy. One fascinating example detailed in the article is the story of cybersecurity researcher Allison Nixon, who faced a daunting challenge when mysterious online figures threatened her life. Her journey to uncover their identities serves as a testament to both the risks posed by emerging technologies and the resilience of those who fight back against them. The piece also delves into how AI is being used to facilitate online crimes, despite claims of superhacked systems being overblown. Additionally, it examines the dark side of cryptocurrency, which has become a haven for illegal activities, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding its widespread use. The issue also explores how law enforcement agencies are leveraging technology to monitor public spaces, with Chicago’s extensive surveillance system as a case study. While officials argue that such measures are crucial for maintaining public safety, privacy advocates warn of the potential for abuse, likening the system to a modern-day panopticon. These discussions underscore the broader debate about the limits of technological oversight and the erosion of civil liberties in an increasingly monitored world. Finally, the article touches on how modern thieves are using cutting-edge techniques to steal luxury cars right from under manufacturers’ noses, as well as how drug smugglers are employing uncrewed narco submarines to evade detection. These examples highlight the constantly evolving nature of crime and the need for law enforcement to stay ahead of criminal innovations. The issue also showcases how conservationists are leveraging technology, such as making rhinos radioactive to combat wildlife trafficking, demonstrating the broader societal impact of tech in addressing global challenges. The Download’s Crime issue is a timely exploration of how technology is reshaping the landscape of crime

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Originally published on MIT Technology Review on 2/25/2026