Our data isn't safe. Resist giving it up whenever you can
Data breaches are increasingly common, with AT&T recently exposing records of 110 million customers. The author emphasizes vigilance against unnecessary data requests to enhance personal information security.
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The article discusses the increasing prevalence of data breaches and the importance of protecting personal information. It highlights a recent breach involving AT&T, where hackers accessed call and text records of nearly 110 million customers, emphasizing that even though sensitive information like Social Security numbers was not compromised, the incident contributes to the growing volume of consumer data at risk. The Identity Theft Resource Center reported a record high of 3,205 data compromises in the previous year, affecting over 353 million individuals.
The author shares personal experiences of resisting unnecessary requests for personal information from retailers and airlines, illustrating the need for vigilance in protecting data. For instance, when asked to scan her driver’s license at a furniture store, she refused, arguing that it was unnecessary and could lead to identity theft. Similarly, when trying to correct an error in her Qatar Airways loyalty program registration, she was alarmed by the requirement to upload identification documents, raising concerns about data security.
Despite assurances from companies about data protection, the author expresses skepticism, citing past breaches like those of Target and Equifax. She concludes that while the battle to safeguard personal data may seem daunting, every small act of resistance against unnecessary data sharing is a step towards greater protection.
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9 commentsYou shouldn’t need specifics about my device info or browser for your site to work. And you certainly should make it easy to opt out of whatever data you’re selling on me when I use your services, unfortunately we seem to be in a race to the bottom there.
Took less than a minute reading the TOS to know to stay the hell away from it and Mazda's ability to sell my data to 3rd parties. He tells me "you won't be able to remote start without it, warm your car up in the winter". He only gave up when I told him I'll just leave if forced to install.
I also turned off connected services from the cars infotainment screen but I get a prompt to turn back on every time I start the car.
Who knows if any of this actually makes a difference. They may still be collecting my driving data and selling it without my consent.
Im more concerned that my writing style is the same as when I was a 13 year old Republikan lover and die hard believer posting on gamefaqs, reddit, facebook, etc.... I'm ~20 years older and those are some embarrassing things associated with an old username.
I'm sure AI will connect the dots using stories I posted and writing styles. I have a story about coke and mentos I posted for decades. THAT coke mentos story is going to be what unravels my US presidential campaign.
Once given that "out", no employee has ever felt the need to argue that their company's computers are somehow secure.
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Privacy is crucial for democracy, eroded by global surveillance. "Nothing to hide" argument debunked. Mass surveillance harms freedom, leads to self-censorship, and risks misuse. Protecting personal data is vital.
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