In today's digital age, where technology has become an integral part of our lives, the concept of privacy has been subject to much debate. With the increasing use of social media platforms, search engines, and online applications, personal data is being collected, stored, analyzed, and used for various purposes. This raises concerns about the potential misuse of this information, which can lead to identity theft, fraud, and discrimination.
LGBT individuals face additional challenges when it comes to digital privacy, visibility, and self-representation. In this context, how do they envision, enact, reclaim or refuse digital privacy, visibility, and self-representation?
One way that LGBT individuals can imagine, enact, reclaim, or refuse digital privacy, visibility, and self-representation is through the use of pseudonyms. Pseudonyms are fake names that people use instead of their real ones online to protect their identity. They can be useful for LGBT individuals who want to express themselves freely without revealing their true identities.
Someone may create a separate account using a pseudonym to post pictures or videos related to gender transitioning or sexual preferences.
Some people choose not to share any personal information at all while creating new accounts or profiles. They may even create multiple accounts with different email addresses to avoid linkability between them.
Another way that LGBT individuals can assert their digital privacy and visibility is by setting up secure password policies. Encrypting passwords ensures that only authorized users have access to the information contained in the device. It also prevents unauthorized parties from accessing sensitive data, including sexual orientation and gender identity. Other measures include using two-factor authentication and deleting old emails or messages containing personal information.
LGBT individuals can also take steps to enhance their visibility on social media platforms. One way is by using profile pictures that reflect their true selves, such as photos of themselves dressed up or makeup done. This helps others to recognize them more easily, increasing visibility.
Activists can use hashtags like pride or lgbtq to raise awareness about their cause and gain followers.
Some LGBT individuals may choose to remain invisible to preserve their privacy. They may not disclose personal details like names, locations, or contact information when interacting online. In addition, they may block people who send offensive comments or messages.
They can refuse to use apps or services that don't protect their privacy or cater to their needs.
The concept of digital privacy, visibility, and self-representation continues to be a concern for many people worldwide, especially LGBT individuals. While there are challenges associated with this topic, several ways exist to envision, enact, reclaim, or refuse these concepts. From using pseudonyms to setting up secure passwords and choosing how visible they want to be online, individuals can take control of their digital lives and assert their identities.
In a world of quantified selves and algorithmic governance, how do LGBT individuals imagine, enact, reclaim or refuse digital privacy, visibility and self‑representation?
LGBT individuals tend to have different perspectives on digital privacy, visibility and self-representation as compared to heteronormative people due to their unique experiences of marginalization and oppression within society. Some may find it important to take control over their personal data and avoid disclosing sensitive information online while others may see it as a way to challenge social norms and showcase their identities in creative ways.