In Brophy and de Peuters Labours of mobility reading, they discuss the smartphone, more specifically how it has become a capitalist tool for gaining expansive financial value. These constructed networks gain this financial value from the communication, information and the knowledge that is constructed. Invisible networks are constantly tracking our movements, monitoring our data and construct large databases of information on anyone who uses such a device. These large databases of information can offer a flow of capital from larger corporations looking to utilize specific pieces of information, for example corporations can use the purchase the information to assist marketing strategies.
I recently discovered a new software that attempts to combat this, developed by a company called “F-secure” it offers the public anonymous access to the internet at a minimal fee. F- Secures software Freedome, allows for users to disconnect their devices such as smartphones, from the mass data collection that Internet occur on the networks. Disconnected from cookies, geo-trackers, and other that is available for public purchase that allows for users to become, untracked and anonymous users of the web. Freedome also Encrypts sensitive data,, bank files etc. Making it inaccessible for individuals to gain access to over the web.
Basically Freedome masks ones IP address, which an individual’s online identity, masking this allows users to browse anonymously, on their devices whether they are on their smartphone or computer. WIthout an IP address users are ghosts on the network. The software prevents companies collecting large amounts of data. Furthermore Freedome also introduced a new feature where users can view real-time maps of attempted tracking that has occurred while browsing they are simply browsing the Internet.
My thoughts after watching the clip posted above relates to the advertising the company did. It made myself want to use it just because of how many problems that encounter while using the internet such as popups, not being to access certain websites properly due to my location, and keeping my personal information safe. But while going through the website and looking at what it offers I begin to question what it could do to certain markets if we refuse to give them our personal information. Hypothetically if everyone used this software for example, marketing companies may not be able to acquire the information that is needed to fuel their advertising. Thus, I believe that they will be forced to find another way to do this that could potentially be more invasive than what they currently do. So although I would be interested in trying this software, I would be nervous for what implications it could bring in the future.
ReplyDeleteThat is a very good point, services like this should be exclusive or limited to the number or users. After personally trying this service it offers a much more clean and add free environment. What was interesting though was after about a week of using it there were certain things that I was not hearing about, things that would normally be pushed onto my computer in the form of advertisements. It was interesting to see that even after roughly a week of using the free dome service although my browsing was much less frustrating , popups would no longer act as almost small reminders for things. I was using the browser over cyber Monday and I avoiding extensive amounts of advertisements, but consequently I was unaware of certain sales. This software in ways helps to move users away from capitalist culture that is produced and distributed by the internet.
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