The internet has become a significant part of everyday life for many individuals. It is used for various purposes such as communication, entertainment, shopping, work, socializing, dating, education, and more.
The internet also brings about new challenges regarding privacy concerns. With advancements in technology, it is easier than ever to track and monitor online activities through cookies, apps, browser history, location tracking, and more. As a result, people are becoming more aware of how their personal data can be exploited for advertising purposes or even sold to third parties without consent. This raises an important question - how might LGBT people reclaim digital rights, anonymity, visibility, self-branding, and self-erasure in an era of surveillance and metrics? In this article, I will discuss different ways LGBT people can take control of their digital identity while still maintaining privacy and protection from prying eyes.
Reclaiming Digital Rights
One way that LGBT people can reclaim their digital rights is by using encryption software like VPNs (virtual private networks) or TOR (the Onion Router). These tools encrypt all web traffic between your device and the website you visit, making it difficult for third parties to intercept or monitor what you do online.
VPNs allow users to change their IP address and appear to be located in another country or region. Using encryption protects against malware attacks, snooping on public Wi-Fi connections, and other security threats.
Another option is to use secure messaging applications with end-to-end encryption like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram. These platforms ensure only the sender and recipient can read messages, not anyone else. By encrypting conversations, these applications prevent eavesdropping by hackers or government agencies.
LGBT people should consider using pseudonymous accounts when creating social media profiles instead of their real names. Pseudonyms help keep personal information private but still allow individuals to engage in activities such as dating or networking without revealing too much about themselves.
Visibility
In an era where everything is tracked and measured, LGBT people must also consider how they present themselves online regarding visibility.
Some may choose to create a separate profile just for their sexual orientation or gender identity on platforms like Facebook or Twitter. This approach allows them to control who sees this aspect of their life while still allowing others access to other parts of their personality. Others may opt for a more general presence on social media, keeping details vague until meeting someone personally. Regardless of which path one chooses, being visible online can help build relationships and communities around shared interests beyond sexuality or gender identity.
Self-branding and Self-Erasure
LGBT people can also take charge of self-branding by curating content that represents them authentically. They can share photos, videos, and stories that reflect their identity without compromising privacy.
They could post pictures taken at Pride parades or events where they feel comfortable enough to be open about their sexual orientation/gender identity publicly. On the other hand, some may want to minimize digital traces associated with their name - erasing old accounts, deleting sensitive data from devices, etc., so only those close to them know their true identity.
LGBT people can reclaim digital rights, anonymity, visibility, self-branding, and self-erasure in an era of surveillance and metrics. By using encryption software like VPNs and secure messaging apps, creating pseudonymous profiles, sharing content representing their authentic selves while maintaining privacy, and self-branding through curation, individuals have more control over how much information is available online.
It's crucial to remember that these steps require effort and vigilance; if not done correctly, personal data remains vulnerable despite best efforts to protect oneself.
How might LGBT people reclaim digital rights, anonymity, visibility, self‑branding and self‑erasure in an era of surveillance and metrics, and what might that reclamation look like?
LGBT individuals have always had to deal with challenges due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. While some progress has been made towards social acceptance, there is still discrimination against them in many areas of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and housing. In today's world, where technology pervades every aspect of our lives, they also face new challenges related to privacy and security online.