LGBTQIA+ people face unique challenges when it comes to their online presence. In this article, I will explore how they can exercise control over their own digital visibility, privacy, and identity construction while navigating pervasive technological surveillance.
Let's consider how technology is used to monitor behavior. Social media platforms collect data about users through cookies, trackers, and user profiles. This data is then sold to advertisers who target ads based on personal preferences.
If someone visits an LGBTQIA+ website, they may be shown ads for rainbow products or pride merchandise. While this might seem harmless at first glance, it can lead to discrimination against those who don't fit into traditional gender roles.
Let's look at how LGBTQIA+ individuals can protect themselves from surveillance. One way is to use encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp instead of regular texting services. These apps offer end-to-end encryption that prevents messages from being read by third parties. Another way is to delete location data from apps like Facebook or Instagram which could reveal sexual orientation or gender identity markers.
LGBTQIA+ people should avoid using facial recognition software such as Apple Face ID or Google Pixel Imprint because these tools create a permanent biometric record that could be shared with law enforcement agencies.
Now let's turn our attention to constructing identities online. Many LGBTQIA+ individuals choose pseudonyms when creating social media accounts so that they can maintain some level of privacy while still expressing themselves freely. Some also choose not to post pictures of themselves out of fear of outing themselves accidentally or being 'outed' by others.
There are ways to control digital visibility without compromising your authenticity. By setting up two separate accounts - one public and one private - you can share selectively what information you want to make available online.
You could have an account just for friends where you share personal photos but keep another account for professional networking where only work-related content is posted.
We must consider the impact of surveillance on intimacy and eroticism. Social media platforms often require users to verify their age before accessing certain features such as dating apps or adult content. This makes it difficult for LGBTQIA+ youth who may be struggling with coming out or exploring their sexuality without parental support. Similarly, some employers use software to monitor employee activity online in order to detect inappropriate behavior or slack off at work. This type of monitoring can lead to discrimination against queer workers who engage in consensual relationships outside of traditional norms.
Technology presents unique challenges for LGBTQIA+ people seeking agency over their online presence, privacy, and identity construction.
By taking measures like using encrypted messaging apps, deleting location data, constructing multiple identities, and limiting access to sensitive material, individuals can still enjoy the benefits of social media without sacrificing their safety or freedom.
How can LGBT individuals exercise agency over digital visibility, privacy, and identity construction amidst pervasive technological surveillance?
LGBT individuals can exercise agency over their digital visibility, privacy, and identity construction by taking proactive steps to protect themselves from technological surveillance. This involves being mindful of how they share personal information online and using security measures such as encryption and two-factor authentication. They can also consider using pseudonyms or aliases when engaging with others on social media platforms and avoiding sharing sensitive information that could be used against them later.