The Shift from Tech to User-Data Business: How Did We Get Here?

The tech industry has shifted its focus from technology to user data, with companies like Google and Meta/Facebook raking in billions of dollars in digital advertising revenue. These companies collect a vast amount of user data, including search history, purchase information, and even facial recognition data. The lack of federal regulations on data privacy has allowed these companies to infringe on the online privacy of millions of users.

Despite the cryptic legal language and complex privacy settings employed by these companies, it is clear that they cannot be trusted to protect user data. The recent implementation of the EU’s GDPR and DMA laws highlights the need for federal regulations to protect user data and privacy in the US. Several states have already passed comprehensive data privacy laws, but federal legislation with penalties that motivate compliance is necessary.

To improve privacy on devices, users can take steps such as using privacy-focused browsers, unique passwords with two-factor authentication, and VPNs to obscure their IP address. Understanding what data each platform collects and utilizing privacy configuration tools can also help users protect their data. Ultimately, users may need to consider eliminating certain digital platforms entirely to enhance their privacy.