There has been a surge of new users on Mastodon. Mastodon is a network of individually run server which all play by their own rules. It's a different place than the micro-messaging service. Mastodon is a new form of social media, but it could be prone to the same problems that have plagued previous platforms.

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On this week's Gadget Lab, WIRED senior editor of security Andrew Couts joins us to discuss the ins and outs of Mastodon, and whether or not a network like the Decentralized Network can ever replace a social networking site.

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Mastodon is handling a lot of users. Find your friends on Mastodon.

There are recommendations.

Andrew is a dog owner. So much Things to Say: The Oral History of Bob Marley is recommended by Mike. The new season of the show is recommended by Lauren.

Andrew Couts can be found on the social networking site. LaurenGoode is the name of the person. The person is Michael Calore. The main hotline should be blinged out. The show is produced by a man. Solar Keys is our theme song.

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