GDID - Microsoft Global SURVEILLANCE check
I was thinking … what more should happen in order for us to realize that technology is becoming a tool for corporations and governs no longer for the common people.
If you are following tech news, you are probably familiar with the case where Microsoft provided location data of a hacker group, across VPNs. You can have a look over one of the articles that details the problem here. Now one might argue, where is the problem as we are talking about a hacker group and the apprehension and bringing of criminals to justice. It is a valid argument, nevertheless I raise the question, are you comfortable knowing that your Windows device is always to be found if the state desires it. Is it still “your“ device completely?
The direction in which Microsoft is heading is somewhat scary for the regular user. GDID (Global Device Identifier) together with transforming your operating system from a device owned to a cloud/subscription based is something that no one wants but still everyone receives. Begs the question, at what point in time we should take the necessary actions and go back to owning our devices and software on them. The interesting part is that even though the backlash for Microsoft is there, following such news, it is not yet strong enough to make Microsoft (and not only Microsoft) give the user the control which they should have in the first place.
I think we need more and more people getting informed and realizing what is happening, before it will happen. Therefore everyone can and will understand the risks that such surveillance tactics present.
What can someone do against it? Unfortunately for the common user the options are somewhat limited. A shift to Apple is one alternative, but that comes with it’s own “Apple Walled Garden“ in which every user complies with what the company dictates as security. The only real option in preserving your privacy remains a Linux OS which gives you full control of your operating system (with that great power comes also great responsibility). There are many options(part of the Linux “problem“) that you can take and replace your Windows machine. My suggestion is to start with consecrated Distribution like Ubuntu or Linux Mint in the first step to test the waters and see if you are able to switch your workflow from Windows/Apple to Linux. If you are using specialized software from Adobe for example, you won’t get unfortunately a good replacement on Linux yet. Nevertheless, on 95% of users which are using their machine for Webbrowsing, mail and Office work, Linux is a strong contender.
Don’t be afraid in trying Linux. It might seem scary at first but if you give it a few weeks time, you will come to love it. And that not only because of how beautiful it is but also from the fact that you will own not only your device but also your software.
Until next time, TFG