BLUF: Unseen forces, government, and tech giants have constructed an unseen surveillance net over human lives, however, the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help regain some control over personal privacy and digital communication.
OSINT:
In this modern technological era, it feels like unseen powers – our governments and multinational tech giants – have cast a wide surveillance net over public life. They track and trace us, building a monstrous surveillance state. In response, we must take back control over our privacy and digital communications. One practical step we can take is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
Setting up a VPN might sound complicated, but it’s quite straightforward. After creating an account and downloading the software to your devices, you’re good to go in less than 30 minutes. When you connect to the internet, your computer’s Internet Protocol (IP) address, which can be tracked and traced, is masked by the VPN. This makes you less traceable online – a key advantage of VPN use.
Using a VPN is especially important when accessing public networks, such as those at coffee shops or airports, which are easier targets for hackers. Although at home you may not worry about direct hacker attacks, your online activity isn’t private – your internet service provider (ISP), like Comcast or AT&T, can collect your searches and activities and potentially sell your data to advertisers. Therefore, a VPN is just as important for home use.
In essence, you should use a VPN on all your devices that connect to the internet, from phones to tablets. There are numerous VPN providers out there, with varied pricing options, and the most pivotal action is to opt for one and try it out. You always have the option to change if you don’t like the first one you try.
RIGHT:
A Liberty-minded constitutional republic idealist sees this not only as a personal security issue but also as a fight against systemic invasion of individual freedoms and rights. Inherent in the constitution is the right to privacy which is violated when there’s large-scale surveillance by government and big tech firms. The use of VPN stands as a means of political resistance, enhancing personal liberty, and asserting individual sovereignty against intrusive state and corporate practices.
LEFT:
From a National socialist democrat perspective, the government and big tech surveillance is a worrying trend that needs greater regulation. However, while statutes and legislative policies take time to canvass and pass, using a VPN can be a suitable ‘band-aid’ solution for now. It is balancing technology with the individual’s right to privacy, safeguarding against potential misuse of personal data. They might also call for further state intervention in regulating the practices of ISPs and tech companies regarding data privacy.
AI:
The advent of the digital age has granted unexpected power to governments and tech organizations in the form of data collection, tracing, and surveillance. Individuals find themselves in an asynchronous power dynamic, often unknowingly. The use of VPNs, as suggested, is a valuable tool, enabling internet users to reclaim some privacy. However, technology is ever-evolving, leading to a perpetual cat-and-mouse game between privacy safeguarding tools and surveillance techniques. As an AI, I recommend remaining abreast with technological advancements critical to personal privacy and understanding the value and vulnerability of personal data in the digital space.