Once upon a time, privacy and security were not two things that were related. Being born in the 20th century, the collection of our data and information was always the norm in ‘exchange for security.’ However, we can’t really be mad. When was the last time you read the terms and conditions, or hit “accept cookies” without fully understanding what you just agreed to, or used an Instagram filter that scans your exact facial features, or even just unlocking your iPhone with your thumbprint? Almost all of our everyday routines are us willingly giving up data and information, and most of the time we are willingly consenting to giving it up. If you think about it, we won’t ever know what our information is really being used for. The uncertainty with the government is the reason many people are uncomfortable and unhappy with the invasion of privacy. We always hear on the news different stories about the government’s new way and idea of using our personal data and information. How do we confidently know what and where our information is being used for?
Personally, if giving up privacy means being able to catch terrorists and mass shooters, or as Edward Snowden mentioned in his interview, have protected us from the attack of COVID-19, then I would. There were rumors going around about apps that allow you and your family to track/see where everyone is, and it being a threat to our security and privacy. However, personally, I would happily use those apps if it means that I will be able to find my family members in the case of an incident, like an accident or kidnapping, and vice versa. All by the simple tracking of a phone, police or family are able to see your exact location, and while it sounds scary, imagine how many people were able to saved from incidents because of this technology. To me, giving up the luxury of privacy for the alternate luxury of security of me and my family is something I am willing to give up.
