How to Avoid US-Based Digital Services–and Why You Might Want To

a year ago

Big Tech companies like Apple, Google, and Meta act as gatekeepers for user data, deciding government access to personal information.
Collaboration between Big Tech and the Trump administration began before his inauguration, with significant financial contributions from major tech firms.
Meta (Facebook, Instagram, Threads) made policy changes aligning with Trump administration values, permitting hate speech and removing fact-checkers.
Google and Apple complied with Trump's executive orders, including renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.
Tech companies' alignment with the Trump administration raises concerns about privacy, surveillance, and data control.
Law enforcement can compel tech companies to hand over user data via subpoenas, court orders, or National Security Letters (NSLs).
The FBI's 2016 attempt to force Apple to backdoor an iPhone highlights tensions between tech companies and law enforcement over encryption.
Countries relying on US-based digital services for government communications and public health are exploring alternatives due to safety concerns.
Non-US alternatives like ProtonMail, MagicEarth, and Vivaldi are gaining popularity as secure options for digital services.
The r/degoogle subreddit has over 250,000 members sharing tips on replacing Google and other US-based digital services.

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