#OnlinePrivacy

[ptitolier]

Title: Are We Truly Free in a World Obsessed with Our Data?

A few years ago, I realised that my phone knew my desires better than I did. This isn’t an exaggeration. Every notification, every recommendation seemed perfectly timed. But how? The answer is simple: my data, constantly collected, was feeding invisible algorithms.

This reality disturbed me for a long time. Not just because I hate the idea of being watched, but because I wondered: if my choices are influenced by algorithms, am I still free?

A World of Data, A World of Control?

We live in an era where our data is extracted and monetised by companies we often don’t even know exist. Yes, we’re aware that Google and Facebook collect our information. But few people know about data brokers – these companies that buy, analyse, and resell our digital lives.

Shoshana Zuboff, in The Age of Surveillance Capitalism, describes this phenomenon as a new form of power. She argues that our behaviour has become a raw material, extracted and exploited to anticipate our actions and influence our decisions. What struck me most in her analysis is the idea that digital surveillance is no longer just a tool, but an entire economy.

Can We Talk About Freedom When Everything Is Anticipated?

I grew up believing that freedom meant having choices. But today, every choice I make online is guided by algorithms. When Spotify recommends a song, is it my personal taste or a machine that analysed my past listens? When Netflix suggests a film, is it a free choice or a calculated suggestion designed to keep me on the platform longer?

Byung-Chul Han, a contemporary philosopher, criticises this society of transparency where everything must be visible, measurable, and exploitable. He writes that in this quest for data, we lose our opacity – that space where our individuality could exist without constant scrutiny. And without that opacity, freedom becomes an illusion.

Why Should We Care?

Many might say, “I have nothing to hide, so it doesn’t matter.” But it’s not just about privacy. It’s about control. Every piece of data collected is another brick in a structure where our behaviours are predicted, influenced, and sometimes manipulated.

When data brokers sell our information to advertisers, it’s not just to show us an ad for shoes. It’s to shape our digital environment so that we buy those shoes. Or worse, to influence our political opinions, our relationships, or even our ambitions.

Where Are We Headed?

What troubles me most is how normal this data collection has become. We accept cookies without thinking. We give apps access to our contacts, location, and photos simply because they ask for it. And each time we do, we give away a little more of our freedom.

But not all is lost. The first step is to understand this system. The second is to act. My Medium article dives deeper into how our data is extracted and sold – but more importantly, what it means for our freedom. Because in the end, the question is simple: do we really want to live in a world where our choices are no longer truly ours?

Read the full article here

[ivygorgon]

An open letter to the U.S. Senate

The Senate must not pass the TikTok “ban” bill!

2,544 so far! Help us get to 3,000 signers!

I strongly oppose the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, a bill that could ban TikTok in the US. First, it violates our free speech. Second, it targets one social media company over others that have the exact same issues. A better way to safeguard our data would be to create comprehensive consumer-privacy laws that would require apps like TikTok, as well as American companies like Facebook, to face more restrictions on how they handle user data. If the Senator supports this bill they will lose my vote. Thanks.

▶ Created on March 13 by Jess Craven

📱 Text SIGN PHUJDN to 50409

🤯 Liked it? Text FOLLOW JESSCRAVEN101 to 50409

[mrblobbystan]

"😱💥 ALBO's Revolutionary Hack-Blocking Strategy Revealed: The Surprising Power of Turning Off Your Phone! 😱📱 Don't Miss Out on This Game-Changing Cybersecurity Tip!"

📱🚫⚡️ ALBO wants you to turn off your phone?!?!?! But why? Well, he's been communicating with the new king of cyber safety in good old down under and they've sussed out the situation. The down low key notes are that those pesky hackers want your deets and your phones have those deets. So to stop them dead in their tracks, you can use this one simple trick: just turn your phone off. 🙅‍♂️💥

But this advice ain't new, my fellow Tumblarians! The US of A decided way back in 2020 that the advice was lit af. 🔥🔥

The cool doctor was like, "yo, you want alarms all hours? Don't do it. Just be the cool person and prank the script kiddies with the power of no power." 😎🔌

So, fam, next time you're feeling like you're under attack from those hackers, remember Albo's advice and power down that phone. Stay safe out there! ✌️🔐✨

[informatology]

"Is the Tor Browser Safe to Use? Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Anonymous Browsing"

The Tor Browser is a popular web browser that allows users to access the internet anonymously and privately. It works by routing your internet traffic through a network of volunteer-operated servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity or identify your IP address. While the Tor Browser can be a useful tool for protecting your privacy and security online, many people wonder if it is truly safe to use. In this article, we'll explore the safety of the Tor Browser and provide some tips for using it safely.

Is the Tor Browser safe to use?

The short answer is yes, the Tor Browser is generally considered safe to use. The browser is open-source software, which means that anyone can review the code and look for vulnerabilities or security flaws. Additionally, the Tor Project (the organization behind the Tor Browser) is committed to maintaining the security and privacy of its users.

However, it's important to note that no software is completely foolproof, and the Tor Browser is no exception. While using the Tor Browser can help protect your privacy and anonymity online, there are still some potential risks to be aware of.

One potential risk of using the Tor Browser is that it can be used to access illegal or malicious content. Because the Tor network allows users to remain anonymous, it has become a popular tool for criminals and hackers to conduct illegal activities such as selling drugs or weapons, distributing malware, or engaging in other nefarious activities. As a result, using the Tor Browser to access certain websites or online communities can put you at risk of encountering illegal or harmful content.

Another risk of using the Tor Browser is that it can be slower than other web browsers due to the way it routes your internet traffic through multiple servers. This can make browsing the internet feel sluggish or unresponsive, which can be frustrating for some users.

Tips for using the Tor Browser safely

Despite these potential risks, there are several steps you can take to use the Tor Browser safely:

Keep your browser up-to-date: Make sure you're using the latest version of the Tor Browser, which will include the latest security patches and bug fixes.

Use a strong password: When creating an account or logging in to a website while using the Tor Browser, be sure to use a strong, unique password to protect your account from hackers.

Avoid downloading files: To minimize the risk of downloading malware or viruses, avoid downloading files or software while using the Tor Browser.

Use two-factor authentication: Where possible, use two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.

Be aware of your online activity: When using the Tor Browser, be mindful of the websites and online communities you visit. Avoid websites that may contain illegal or malicious content, and use common sense when engaging with others online.

In conclusion, the Tor Browser can be a useful tool for protecting your privacy and security online, but it's important to use it safely and responsibly. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your online activity remains safe and secure while using the Tor Browser.

[techyneedy]

Residential VPN - What is it & How it Works? (2025)

🌐 Ever wondered how to enhance your online privacy without compromising speed? Let's delve into Residential VPNs and their significance.

Key benefits include:

Authentic IP Addresses: Mimic real user locations for seamless browsing. Enhanced Security: Safeguard your data from potential threats. Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Access content from any region effortlessly.

In today's digital landscape, understanding and utilizing Residential VPNs can be a game-changer. How do you ensure your online activities remain private?

📖To read more visit here🌐🔗: https://techyneedy.com/residential-vpn/

[yosihernandez]

Interesting article that talks about the new Global Privacy in 2025! 

I found his article, which talks about how Countries around the world are starting to enforce new data privacy laws. In places like India, Brazil, and Argentina, the focus is on AI rules, protecting kids’ data, and user rights. Meanwhile, the EU is shifting from making new laws to actually enforcing the ones they’ve already passed, like the AI Act and DSA. These changes will affect social media, online safety, and how governments access data.

[ryanchanmco335]

The federal trade commission has some great tips about online privacy.

[cheapersgames]

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[bhavyait]

CroxyProxy YouTube – Unblock & Enjoy Seamless Streaming Anywhere!"

Are you tired of encountering restrictions while trying to watch YouTube? Whether YouTube is blocked in your school, workplace, or country, CroxyProxy YouTube is your ultimate solution for unrestricted and secure video streaming. With CroxyProxy, you can bypass censorship, access your favorite videos, and enjoy a smooth and anonymous browsing experience—all without installing any software!

What is CroxyProxy YouTube?

CroxyProxy is a free web proxy that allows you to access YouTube and other blocked websites effortlessly. Unlike traditional VPNs, CroxyProxy works directly in your browser, meaning there’s no need for downloads or installations. Simply enter the YouTube URL, and you’re ready to stream!

Why Choose CroxyProxy for YouTube?

Unblock YouTube from Anywhere

Watch your favorite videos even if YouTube is restricted in your region, school, or workplace.

Bypass censorship with ease and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment.

Fast & Smooth Streaming

Experience high-speed video playback without buffering issues.

Optimized for seamless performance, ensuring a lag-free experience.

Private & Secure Browsing

CroxyProxy encrypts your connection, keeping your identity hidden.

No need to worry about tracking or data leaks—your privacy is protected.

No Software Required

Works directly in your browser—no need to install VPNs or proxy apps.

Just visit the CroxyProxy website, enter YouTube’s link, and start streaming instantly!

Compatible with All Devices

Whether you’re on a PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet, CroxyProxy ensures unrestricted YouTube access on any device.

How to Use CroxyProxy to Watch YouTube?

Visit the CroxyProxy website in your browser.

Enter the YouTube URL or search for videos directly through the proxy.

Click "Go" and start watching YouTube without any restrictions.

Who Can Benefit from CroxyProxy?

Students & Employees – Watch educational videos or entertainment content even on restricted networks.

Travelers & Expats – Access YouTube from any location, even in countries with censorship.

Privacy-Conscious Users – Browse YouTube securely without exposing your identity.

Enjoy Unrestricted YouTube Streaming Today!

Don’t let restrictions stop you from watching your favorite content. Whether it’s music, tutorials, or news updates, CroxyProxy YouTube gives you the freedom to stream anytime, anywhere!

[tmarshconnors]

End Behavioral Ads

In our increasingly digital world, we are bombarded by advertisements wherever we go online. Whether we’re scrolling through social media, reading articles, or browsing websites, ads follow us at every turn. But what many people may not realize is that these ads are not just random they are tailored specifically to us. This practice, known as behavioural advertising, has become a norm in the online advertising industry, and its implications on our privacy and autonomy are far-reaching.

What are Behavioural Ads?

Behavioural ads, or targeted ads, are a form of online advertising that tracks and analyses a user’s behaviour to serve ads based on their past interactions, interests, and online activities. Essentially, these ads are based on the idea that if companies can understand what we like, what we search for, and how we behave online, they can serve us ads that are more likely to generate a sale or engagement.

For example, if you search for a specific brand of shoes online, you might start seeing ads for the same brand or similar ones popping up across your devices. This is because the ad networks have been tracking your online behaviour and know you’re interested in that particular product. The more you search, browse, and interact with content online, the more they know about you, building a detailed digital profile of your preferences.

The Ethical Implications of Behavioural Ads

While targeted ads may seem like an innocuous way for companies to advertise relevant products, they come with several significant concerns:

Invasion of Privacy One of the most significant issues with behavioural ads is the invasion of our privacy. The data collected by companies is not limited to simple browsing behaviour—it can include sensitive information such as health-related searches, financial interests, and personal habits. This information is often collected without the user’s full consent or understanding of how it will be used. As a result, individuals have little control over what is shared and who can access it.

Manipulation and Exploitation Behavioural ads are designed to tap into human psychology, exploiting our vulnerabilities and manipulating our choices. By predicting and influencing our purchasing decisions, these ads can encourage impulsive buying or drive us to make decisions based on emotional triggers rather than rational thought. This can be particularly concerning in areas such as mental health, where users may be influenced by ads promoting products or services that are not in their best interest.

Erosion of Autonomy One of the more subtle but troubling effects of behavioural ads is the erosion of personal autonomy. As these ads shape our online experiences, they begin to create a bubble where we are only exposed to information and products we are likely to engage with. This can limit our exposure to diverse viewpoints, ideas, and products, ultimately narrowing our scope of experience and reinforcing biases.

Data Breaches and Security Risks The collection of personal data for targeted advertising raises significant concerns about data breaches and security. As companies accumulate vast amounts of information about users, they become prime targets for hackers. In the event of a breach, sensitive personal information can be stolen and exploited for malicious purposes, putting individuals’ privacy and security at risk.

Why We Should Stop Behavioural Ads

The case for stopping behavioural ads is clear: they compromise our privacy, manipulate our choices, and expose us to unnecessary risks. Here are a few compelling reasons why we should take action to curb this practice:

Protecting Our Privacy We must take control of our personal data. Behavioural ads rely on our data to function, but as individuals, we should have the right to choose what data we share and with whom. By ending behavioural ads, we can ensure that our online lives are not constantly monitored, and our private information is not exploited for profit.

Restoring Autonomy and Choice We should be able to make decisions without being manipulated by advertisers. Ending behavioural ads would allow us to experience the digital world on our own terms, rather than being constantly nudged toward products and services based on sophisticated algorithms designed to influence us.

Encouraging Fairer Business Practices The current advertising model puts the power squarely in the hands of large corporations and tech companies, allowing them to dominate the market. By stopping behavioural ads, we can level the playing field and encourage businesses to adopt more ethical, transparent advertising methods that don’t rely on invasive tracking.

Promoting Consumer Trust As consumers, we need to trust the companies we interact with. If businesses are transparent about their advertising methods and give consumers control over their data, we are more likely to engage with them. Reversing the trend of behavioural ads could help restore faith in the digital economy and improve relationships between consumers and businesses.

How We Can Stop Behavioural Ads

To put an end to behavioural ads, we need to take action on several fronts:

Advocating for Stronger Privacy Laws Governments must enact stronger privacy regulations to protect individuals from invasive tracking and data collection. Laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe have set a precedent, but more can be done globally to ensure companies are held accountable for their data practices.

Using Privacy Tools and Settings As individuals, we can take steps to protect ourselves. Using ad blockers, privacy-focused browsers like Brave, and VPNs can help reduce the impact of behavioural ads. Additionally, many websites and apps offer options to limit data tracking or opt out of personalised advertising.

Supporting Ethical Companies We can also choose to support companies that prioritise user privacy and adopt ethical advertising practices. By making informed decisions as consumers, we can help shift the market toward more responsible business models.

Raising Awareness One of the most powerful ways to stop behavioural ads is by raising awareness about the issue. The more people understand how their data is being used, the more likely they are to demand change. Through blogs, social media, and activism, we can push for a future where online advertising is fair, transparent, and respectful of personal privacy.

Behavioural ads are a pervasive and often harmful part of the modern digital landscape. By targeting our personal information and exploiting our psychological vulnerabilities, they undermine our privacy and autonomy. It’s time we take a stand against this practice, advocating for stronger privacy laws, utilizing tools that protect our data, and supporting companies that respect our rights. Only then can we reclaim control over our online lives and ensure that advertising serves us, rather than the other way around.

[deletemyinfonow]

🔐 This Valentine’s, protect the one that stays with you forever—Your Privacy!

Love and security go hand in hand. The Privacy Gift helps erase your personal data from broker sites, monitor your exposure, and safeguard your digital identity. Because your privacy deserves love too! 💖

📲 Scan the QR Code & Secure Your Privacy Now!

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[speedester17]

Tracking the Trackers: Analyzing Online Advertising and Data Collection

In this post, I dive into the hidden world of online tracking using the Disconnect browser extension. After visiting eight different websites—covering civic, e-commerce, news, and social media—I discovered that Amazon had the highest number of trackers! This finding highlights how major e-commerce platforms rely heavily on advertising networks, data collection, and personalized marketing to optimize their business.

I analyze the privacy implications of excessive tracking, discuss why companies like Amazon need so much user data, and reflect on how this impacts the average internet user.

Check out my findings, a screenshot of Amazon's tracking data, and a discussion on whether an ad-supported internet is sustainable in the long run.

Website URL: 

Government Of Canada 

Wealth Health Organization

Amazon.ca

Ebay.ca

CBC News  

New York Times

Twitter.com

Facebook  

[techyneedy]

Private Internet Access VPN - Features, Benefits & Drawbacks

Private Internet Access VPN: Overview, Features, Review, and More

📖To read more visit here🌐🔗: https://techyneedy.com/private-internet-access-vpn/

[homepageexplorer]

NordVPN Homepage History on December 28, 2024!