Photo by Glen Carrie on Unsplash

It may take a few extra minutes to find “private” alternatives to mainstream internet tools, but it’s undoubtedly worth it in my opinion.

I’ve noticed people quick to write off privacy tools (and for a number of reasons).

“Privacy tools don’t actually do anything.” “I don’t care if I’m tracked online if it makes browsing more convenient.” “I don’t know how to use privacy-friendly software.”

I get it. It’s so easy to ignore the idea that every website you visit is collecting some information about you so that they can market to you more effectively. And mainstream tools like Google and Facebook are so convenient that I would use them exclusively if I didn’t know any better.

Privacy is important, and this is why:

What Does Privacy Do For You?

There are a number of benefits to privacy, and these are undeniable. Even if you don’t personally see value in protecting your privacy, these perks are something anyone can benefit from.

Freedom

People behave differently when they know that they’re being watched. On the internet, if you’re able to speak anonymously and without concern about repercussions from your thoughts and ideas, the information will flow more freely.

When you use major social media platforms or tools like Gmail to communicate, the company behind those tools are able to monitor your behavior and communications.

Maintaining Your Rights

There is always debate surrounding how much privacy people are entitled to. Government agencies want people to believe that more privacy lets criminals and terrorists hide from law enforcement. However, people have a right to privacy and using privacy-focused tools creates a culture that embraces that privacy.

If you’re using a private messaging app, like Signal, that shouldn’t be a red flag for law enforcement or other people that you are doing something illegal. If we completely ban encryption and stop letting people protect their personal information or conversations, we’ve eliminated people’s right to speak freely.

Limiting Centralized Corporate Power

When you consent to a company collecting loads of your personal data, you’re allowing that company to accumulate information about your behavior. Google and Facebook have mastered this practice and use that massive store of data to influence people and their behavior.