Why Privacy Matters

A healthy society needs privacy

As we all become increasingly connected and rely on online services for day to day activities from banking, travel planning, entertainment, and communications with loved ones, communications and data you generate performing these digital activities needs to be private. Why?

Personal Security

Protecting your online privacy helps safeguard your personal information, preventing it from falling into the wrong hands. This includes sensitive data such as financial details, social security numbers, addresses, travel plans, and lifestyle preferences. Without adequate privacy measures, this information can be exploited for identity theft, fraud, or other malicious activities.

Caution: Anytime you give an online service or app personal information what are you getting in return and who else are they sharing it with?

Data Protection

When you use online services or browse the internet, you generate a vast amount of data that is often collected and stored by various organizations. This data can include your browsing history, search queries, location information, purchase behavior, and more. Protecting your online privacy ensures that your data is handled responsibly and that you have control over how it is collected, stored, and used.

Caution: Many organizations misuse the data they collect about you and your online activities. It is important to be aware of what they are doing with that data and who else they share it with. Do you realize many oil change companies sell your VIN number and mileage on your vehicle to a company that then supplies it to insurance companies?

Personal Autonomy

Preserving online privacy allows individuals to maintain autonomy over their personal information and online activities. It empowers users to make informed choices about sharing their data and engaging in online services without fear of excessive surveillance, profiling, or manipulation. Privacy supports the idea of individual freedom and the right to control one's personal information.

Caution: When using an online service, especially one that is free, you are the product. Make sure the service you are using is worth the exchange of your privacy.

Freedom of Expression

Online privacy fosters an environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their opinions, beliefs, and ideas without fear of retribution or judgment. When people are concerned about their privacy being violated, they may self-censor, which can inhibit the free flow of information and diverse perspectives.

Note: This is why Elon Musk bought Twitter. If you have views that are different from the mainstream, then its imperative having parts of your life very private. I am not sure if we have public freedom of expression anymore. Its important you have freedom of expression at least with your inner circle.

Trust and Confidence

Privacy is crucial for building trust between individuals, organizations, and online platforms. When users have confidence that their privacy is respected, they are more likely to engage in online activities, share information, and participate in digital communities. Trust in online interactions and transactions is vital for the growth and development of the digital economy.

Note: Trust in online services has been shattered. Big Brother and Big Tech collect and share data at an unprecedented rate. Find secure and trusted technologies to enable a private digital lifestyle. Trust your inner circle and your part of society, be cautious of everything else.

Closing

Online privacy is essential for a healthy society, personal security, digital wellness, data protection, personal autonomy, and freedom of expression. It enables individuals to control their personal information, have private meaningful conversations with trusted individuals, and maintain a sense of privacy and balance in the digital age.