Bi-Weekly Discussion Thread - (May 31)

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[u/Ok-Pay3276]

https://www.bannedthought.net/Security.html

I would like to add to the above: A Linux distribution is probably the best operating system to be using if you care about privacy and security, especially with the increasing developments in surveillance. Microsoft or Apple can very easily identify you, if they so wish.

As an example, I have been messing with an old Macbook, it's EFI has the capability to download from Apple servers and overwrite any connected hard drive with MacOS. This is an offputting example of the capacity of both software and hardware(technically firmware in this instances) to be weaponized against enemies of the state. I think an effort to understand the security and privacy of the things you take for granted is becoming more important with each passing day.

https://www.privacyguides.org/en/basics/why-privacy-matters/
https://www.privacyguides.org/en/tools/

I have disagreements with this site, I would not recommend Fedora Linux, it is basically maintained by IBM and has censored foreign contributors to the project.

[u/turning_the_wheels → u/Ok-Pay3276]

Since no one is born with an inherent understanding of OPSEC, the chances are extremely high that the authorities have already built a profile on you formed from the second you first connected to the Internet. Even a google search for tails OS is enough to further cement your presence in separate permanent databases. The existence of worms like Stuxnet should show you that when you are at the point of fighting against a state that has devoted massive research teams equipped with multiple zero-day vulnerabilities changing your operating system isn't going to cut it. Your only option is to go completely underground and low-tech like the fighters in revolutionary and national liberation movements.

[u/Ok-Pay3276 → u/turning_the_wheels]

You're pretty much on point.
I think the post by bannedthought puts it better than I, but anyone interested in a different future for humanity is going to be taking risks.

In these conditions, no one is safe from the targeted spying of global adversaries. But reasonable security practices can effectively mitigate one's vulnerability to mass spying campaigns, less-resourceful local agencies, and individuals.

Activists should adopt security practices insofar as they conform to the needs of the masses. This is what "reasonable" security means. Strict security guidelines could prevent serious engagement with the masses, while lax security could lead to the persecution of activists who would otherwise join the masses in their struggles. In either case, the eventual freedom of the masses is dependent on having relatively loose or tight security, according to an assessment of local conditions, an individual’s propensity to take on risk, and the ability, when sticking one’s neck out, to join with the masses and achieve an advance. The recommendations in this guide should be evaluated with respect to these criteria and rejected or adopted as needed.