Zuck promised his “metaverse” could bring people together. All I got were glitches and disappointment.
Year in Review
Jessica Henwick Shot a Movie on a Phone. It Wasn’t Exactly Easy
Today’s mobile devices may have learned Hollywood’s cinematic tricks, but directors are still dealing with the limitations—and stigma—of making films on them.
Our 12 Favorite Photography Books of 2021
From border politics to vintage NASA gear, these are the photo books that best document the WIRED world.
The 7 Best Cookbooks of 2021
From Black American barbecue to steaming bowls of Asian dumplings, these recipes are the best way to taste the world without leaving your kitchen.
The Most Dangerous People on the Internet in 2020


This year saw plenty of destructive hacking and disinformation campaigns—but amid a pandemic and a historic election, the consequences have never been graver.
Ransomware Is Headed Down a Dire Path


2020 was a great year for ransomware gangs. For hospitals, schools, municipal governments, and everyone else, it’s going to get worse before it gets better.
How Your Digital Trails Wind Up in the Police’s Hands


Phone calls. Web searches. Location tracks. Smart speaker requests. They’ve become crucial tools for law enforcement, while users often are unaware.
The Worst Hacks of 2020, a Surreal Pandemic Year


From ransomware schemes to supply chain attacks, this year melded classic hacks with extraordinary circumstances.
2020 Shows the Danger of a Decapitated Cyber Regime


Trump’s White House has long been AWOL on cybersecurity. That lack of oversight almost seemed to be working—until the SolarWinds hack.