The term "LGBT" stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, who often face challenges in their daily lives due to social stigma, discrimination, and prejudice. In today's world, technology has become an integral part of our lives, and it is impossible to avoid its influence. Online platforms have given us access to unlimited information, but they also pose new risks and threats. LGBT individuals may find themselves being monitored and tracked online, making them vulnerable to surveillance, harassment, and abuse. This can lead to feelings of fear, anxiety, and isolation, which can make it difficult for them to assert agency over their digital visibility, privacy, and self-representation.
There are ways that LGBT individuals can take control of their online presence and protect themselves from harm.
One way LGBT individuals can assert agency over their digital visibility is by choosing how much personal information they share online. They should be cautious about what they post publicly, as this information can be used against them later.
They should avoid posting photos or videos of themselves engaging in sexual activities or showing their faces at parties where alcohol was involved. They should also be mindful of their use of language, as some terms may be considered offensive or triggering to others. By limiting the amount of personal information they share, LGBT individuals can reduce their risk of being targeted by predators, trolls, and haters.
Another way LGBT individuals can assert agency over their digital privacy is by using secure passwords and two-factor authentication. They should create unique, complex passwords for each account and use a password manager to keep track of them all.
They should enable two-factor authentication on all accounts that offer it, as this adds an extra layer of security to their logins. LGBT individuals should also be aware of the apps and websites they download and use, as many collect data without the user's knowledge. They should read the privacy policies carefully before signing up and opt out of any third-party sharing agreements if possible.
Self-representation is another important aspect of agency for LGBT individuals. They should choose how they represent themselves online, including the names, pronouns, and images they use. This includes choosing usernames, profile pictures, and bio descriptions that accurately reflect who they are. By doing so, they can take control of their identity and prevent others from misgendering or mislabeling them. They should also be cautious about interacting with people they don't know well, as they may not always be who they claim to be. LGBT individuals should avoid engaging in risky behaviors such as meeting strangers in person or sending explicit messages without first verifying their identities.
LGBT individuals can take steps to protect their digital visibility, privacy, and self-representation within surveilled and algorithmically governed online environments. By being mindful of what they share, creating strong passwords, and representing themselves authentically, they can assert agency over their personal information and reduce their risk of harm.
How can LGBT individuals assert agency over digital visibility, privacy, and self-representation within surveilled and algorithmically governed online environments?
The LGBT community has been marginalized for a long time due to their sexual orientation and identity. They are often considered outcasts by society and are not accepted openly as they deserve. In this context, it is hard for them to live up to social expectations and pressures while also trying to be themselves. The Internet offers them a platform where they can express their true selves freely but it comes with its own set of challenges too.