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IOS 18 Update is out! Recheck your privacy settings after update. Little known fact. The reset function on an Apple iOS device allows you to target specific areas. Go To: Settings -> General -> Transfer or Reset iPhone -> Reset “Reset Location & Privacy” This will remove all permissions to important areas to include Facial Recognition, Microphone, Camera… and then prompt for permissions back to each area. Will save you a significant amount of time and effort after an update wrecks your privacy settings. Also go back and manually turn off “Allow Apps to Request to Track” in Privacy and Security -> Tracking. P.S. This also worked on older versions of iOS.

Surveillance Watch is an interactive platform that exposes the intricate connections between surveillance companies, their funding sources, and affiliations. The site features an interactive map that allows users to explore these relationships and understand the extensive network behind global surveillance efforts. For more detailed information, you can visit the website https://lnkd.in/gp7bBpDZ A great resource to bookmark.

Two elements are critical in building a solid digital privacy plan: DNS and Search. Over the years, I've investigated these two aspects and find they contain the most information about us that we regularly allow to be seen and collected on. I often start with search when helping people protect their privacy. It's the easiest fix technologically but the hardest in terms of convenience. We're all so used to the effectiveness of Google Search that anything else seems inferior. I don't think a law will simply fix it. It will take a culture shift and dedicated users to protect their privacy. Some of the ideas on support to alternative search engines has merit. Efforts such as Freesoke, Startpage, and self-hosted options such as SearXNG can help users break free of the data vacuum that is Google. I encourage you to check them out. Freespoke Search Startpage The article from Ars Technica explores various strategies to dismantle Google's monopoly in the search engine market. It discusses potential regulatory actions, such as antitrust lawsuits, breaking up the company, or enforcing data-sharing mandates. The article also considers market-based solutions like encouraging competition through support of alternative search engines and improving user privacy protections. Additionally, it examines the role of technological advancements and user behavior changes in reducing Google's dominance. https://lnkd.in/eADzYdmT

Two elements are critical in building a solid digital privacy plan: DNS and Search. Over the years, I've investigated these two aspects and find they contain the most information about us that we regularly allow to be seen and collected on. I often start with search when helping people protect their privacy. It's the easiest fix technologically but the hardest in terms of convenience. We're all so used to the effectiveness of Google Search that anything else seems inferior. I don't think a law will simply fix it. It will take a culture shift and dedicated users to protect their privacy. Some of the ideas on support to alternative search engines has merit. Efforts such as Freesoke, Startpage, and self-hosted options such as SearXNG can help users break free of the data vacuum that is Google. I encourage you to check them out. Freespoke Search Startpage The article from Ars Technica explores various strategies to dismantle Google's monopoly in the search engine market. It discusses potential regulatory actions, such as antitrust lawsuits, breaking up the company, or enforcing data-sharing mandates. The article also considers market-based solutions like encouraging competition through support of alternative search engines and improving user privacy protections. Additionally, it examines the role of technological advancements and user behavior changes in reducing Google's dominance. https://lnkd.in/eADzYdmT

Hi everyone - I am looking for a new role and would appreciate your support. I have a little less than 60 days until I am looking to start working (2 Sep). I have a number of very helpful people and I greatly appreciate the support. At this point I don’t know what I don’t know l. I would love a chance to talk about opportunities that are coming available or how I can bring value to your company or organization. Thanks to those that have been incredibly supportive in my transition out of the military.

Privacy isn't about hiding secrets; it's about gaining control over your digital story. Our personal information flows seamlessly and is readily accessible. This makes understanding and protecting our privacy increasingly crucial. We seek to debunk common misconceptions and provide actionable steps you can take to safeguard your digital story. Don’t let technology and data remove your autonomy and freedom of choice. Get control of your digital story today and choose what and when people learn about you. Nobody likes it when someone tells the punch line of the joke. Don’t let your data tell the best parts until you are ready.?

As we inch closer to a federal privacy law, a few things are on our minds. One of those is "consent". The Role of Consent and the Right to Privacy Consent is vital in maintaining individual privacy rights. True informed consent means individuals understand how their data is gathered, used, and shared and willingly accept these actions. However, many users are unaware of the scope and nature of data collection, leading to a deficit of genuine informed consent. (Pew Research) This lack of transparency and control can undermine trust and pose significant obstacles to privacy protection. The balance between the benefits and risks of digital privacy is also crucial. Collecting and using personal data can enhance security, tailored services, and innovation. However, it can pose risks like privacy erosion, potential misuse, and undermining informed consent. Striking a balance between these advantages and risks is critical to maintaining a fair digital environment. Understanding the complex landscape of digital privacy requires a nuanced comprehension of individual privacy rights, the implications of data collection and usage, and the importance of consent. As we progress, we must cultivate an environment where privacy is respected and actively defended, equipping users with the knowledge and tools to protect their digital identities from pervasive technical surveillance and data collection. Know APRA and What it means to you and your family. #digitalprivacy #dataprivacy #dataprotection #freedomofthought #freedomofexpression #freedomofspeech Pew Research: https://lnkd.in/gVxysstx Federal Privacy Law Draft: https://lnkd.in/dD-WTeZt

Every online interaction contributes to a narrative about who you are. This post delves into digital attribution—how your online behavior is tracked and used to build a profile of your interests and traits. It highlights the importance of understanding and managing this process to protect your privacy, reputation, and security. With real-world examples like Google's Incognito lawsuit and LinkedIn's privacy issues, the post offers practical tips for taking control of your digital story through awareness, managing consents, using privacy tools, and being selective with your digital engagements.

My favorite quote out of this article: “Without the third-party cookie … businesses have less of an idea of who their audience is. That can degrade their ability to make money from advertising, making it harder to publish content for free without forcing users to hand over their emails or phone numbers.” I’m not a marketing guy but it sounds like you would rather collect on unwitting users with little effort instead of reaching out and having a conversation with them. ***Not to mention the massive loss of revenue they will face when they can no longer sell that data. *** Remember, the elimination of third-party cookies doesn't mean the end of first-party cookies. These are still available when a visitor spends time on your site and interacts with your content. Additionally, it's worth noting that Google will continue to have access to all the search data and site analytics embedded in most websites. --- At SparkForge we have none of that. No trackers, cookies, or special sauce. If you visit thanks! If you don’t we wouldn’t know. Hopefully the information is useful. #digitalprivacy #dataprivacy https://lnkd.in/e6HmB_su

"The Privacy Line" is a crucial framework for individuals to clearly distinguish between the personal information they feel comfortable sharing publicly and what should be kept private. This method underscores the significance of informed consent, individual autonomy, and safeguarding one's digital footprint from unwanted intrusion. By embracing this strategy, individuals are better equipped to navigate their digital existence, ensuring their information remains secure amidst the expansive realm of the internet. Additionally, "The Privacy Line" is an effective tool not only for defining one's privacy preferences but also for understanding the privacy desires of others and recognizing the varied perspectives on privacy aids in the mutual protection of personal boundaries, highlighting that privacy definitions can vary significantly among individuals. #PrivacyLine, #DigitalPrivacy, #PersonalInformation, #InformedConsent, #Autonomy, #DigitalFootprint, #InternetSecurity, #DataControl, #OnlinePresence, #ProtectingPrivacy, #Confidentiality, #UserEmpowerment