Blog #5 Privacy Online & Off

 

Privacy Online & Off

The issue of data collection effects us by following us wherever we go not just on the internet but where we physically go and if I can be tracked so can anyone I associate with which ultimately creates a domino web of data being spread globally. 

Now a days it is nearly impossible to hide anything wether it be our location which in one of the Ted talks specifically mentions government entities but, it's more than the government thats the issue it's also the businesses. But, since the Ted talk link was not linked in the blog I used facial recognition and AI to find the direct link. 

Just like Cathrine Crump once there is any trace of you online it is near impossible erase. And with AI becoming more powerful by the day it has only enhanced the issue. 

For example if I am in a group picture and it gets posted to social media then my face is out there for anyone to use. Some can even use AI to use facial recognition.

 I would be more concerned about companies like Apple and Google tracking this information in order sell it because they are for profit companies. 

Mind you this is coming from someone who has their Professional Google Analytics certificate and having someone in my immediate family working for Google. 

Perhaps, the only ways to help this issue is by requiring all data to be stored in the United States and cannot have data be transferred from abroad unless Federal Warrants are issued. 

Part of the issue with our data being sold off is based off of were our data is stored. For example if my data is being stored in China then my data falls under China's laws. The worst part is that users cannot see where there data is being stored and have no say as to which countries they don't want it stored. 

By doing anything else such as not allowing for profit and non profit companies to sell data would require some sort of censorship especially with privately owned companies which will not go over well considering companies such as Twitter (X) and Meta being accused of censorship 

Another solution would be to come up with a data ethics verification certificate which can be publicly displayed on a businesses primary platform such as an app or home website address serving as a differentiator to benefit businesses, customers, and consumers. 

 Some possible ways we can do our part to protect ourselves and our communities are as follows

1. Go completely off the grid which would include no technology, wearing a ski mask with sunglasses on in public with the only form of transportation being by bike, living alone in a uninhabited island somewhere in Alaska (similar to where the Alaskan Bush People live) or in the deep woods in Minnesota near International Falls or in the Upper Peninsula . However, this is very unlikely to be sustainable unless you bring your entire family with you and know wilderness survival skills but, it is still a possible solution for some people.

2. Be careful who you associate with because many people make judgements based on perception. 

3. Know the purpose of what you and others you associate with are posting online.

4. Utilize of First Amendment right to protest in Washington

5. Write to legislator/ representative to put a bill into place.

6. Ask for consent of others before posting on social media. 

7. Ask to not be shown in photos that will be publicly available.