LGBTQ+ people face unique challenges when it comes to digital privacy and security. Algorithmic control, data tracking, and surveillance capitalism can compromise their ability to safely express themselves online. With the rise of big tech companies like Google and Facebook, personal information is being collected and used without consent. This can lead to discrimination, targeting, and even violence against members of this community.
There are ways for LGBTQ+ individuals to assert digital self‑sovereignty and anonymity while still crafting visible identities online.
One way to protect digital privacy is to use encryption software such as PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) or Signal for secure messaging. Encryption scrambles messages so that they cannot be read by anyone other than the intended recipient. This can help prevent hackers from accessing sensitive information, such as addresses or phone numbers. It also allows users to communicate without fear of interception or censorship.
VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) can mask IP addresses and make it harder for websites and services to track user activity.
Another option is to use pseudonymous accounts rather than real names when creating social media profiles or participating in online communities. Pseudonyms allow people to create a separate identity that they can control and customize. They can choose how much personal information they share, who they interact with, and what type of content they post. Pseudonyms also provide a degree of anonymity, which can be especially important for marginalized groups who may face discrimination or harassment.
LGBTQ+ people can create their own platforms and networks where they have more control over data collection and surveillance. Sites like Tumblr and Twitter allow users to set up private blogs and microblogging feeds, respectively, where they can share personal stories and connect with others in the community. These sites are not subject to the same level of surveillance as mainstream social media platforms, making them safer spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals.
While algorithmic control, data tracking, and surveillance capitalism present challenges for LGBTQ+ digital privacy and security, there are ways to assert digital self‑sovereignty, anonymity, and crafted visibility. By using encryption software, pseudonyms, and creating their own networks, members of this community can safely express themselves online without fear of reprisal or censorship.
In a world of algorithmic control, data tracking and surveillance capitalism, what possibilities exist for LGBT people to assert digital self‑sovereignty, anonymity or crafted visibility?
People can take various steps to ensure their digital self-sovereignty, anonymity, or crafted visibility while navigating the online space as LGBT individuals. One important step is to use secure and encrypted messaging apps such as Signal or WhatsApp that offer end-to-end encryption to protect personal messages and conversations from prying eyes.