Submitted by Fred on

Big Brother?

Categories
Tech News

Is Big Brother from “1984” watching me?

Something is going on.  That much I know!

When we get in the car Sunday mornings my phone suddenly lights up and declares “13 minutes to Sea Cliff”, where we usually enjoy brunch at the Oak Room Tavern. Also, at the end of the work day, when I get into my car the phone reports “53 minutes to get home”.

I try not to reveal my location when requested to do so by apps.  So I do not comprehend.

Last week Siri actually asked me to give her my personal information.

Is my phone listening and watching me too?

Comments

Corey Bearak

Settings. The idea remains make the tech work for you not for those who as you say, want to watch.
Benjamin Geizhals

With recent upgrades, I find that there’s a lot more coordination between apps, calendars, etc. I’m not sure whether it’s helpful or, like you, making me paranoid.
Paul Napolitano

I too, am very wary about ever giving out my personal information to Siri, google or any Internet information collecting device… Unfortunately, I think Pandora’s box is open and there’s nothing we can do about it. I knew I was outmatched when google bought Nest and then had access to all my security cameras.
Victoria Drogin

I think we have to assume that nothing is private anymore. Shopping preferences, locations, interests, contact .... this is the price of chosong to use “free” technology. We live in a fishbowl!

Submitted by MarilynGenoa on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 00:09

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Marilyn Genoa

Beyond scary. I have that happen often as well. I get emails constantly from firms I don't know who obviously have been "watching me". I try to be so careful but clearly not enough.
Perhaps Corey can show us how to adjust our settings before I try to figure a way to "unplug"

Submitted by SoniaSaleh on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 01:38

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Sonia Saleh

I recently got the XR iPhone and it has a feature that it can automatically fill in all your information from name address and credit card on any website you desire. I agree it's all about settings and keeping up with them. It also about realizing there is no privacy. Check out Spyscape in Manhattan, a fun interactive experience that really brings the point home.
Dana Charlton

I agree, Fred,I it does seem to be out of control. I agree with Marilyn Genoa, hoping that Corey will show us how to adjust our settings for privacy from Big Brother and Big Sister too!
Fred Klein

Even when I miss my “Favorite Group” meeting?

Submitted by Fred on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 02:51

In reply to by SoniaSaleh

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Fred Klein

Even when swimming in my pool?

Submitted by NeilHollander on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 06:25

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Neil Hollander

Okay... time for my radical take on this 1984 scenario. You get what you buy into . It comes with the territory you choose to live your life in . So yeah . I’m in the right place at the right time for once . I’m pretty spun up for a 75 year old . I’m tuned in .What I mean is I have all the conveniences of social media and the internet but remain highly protected from the predatory aspects of it all . It ain’t gonna get any better so I’ve insulated myself and my surroundings . I live remotely . I have no debt . No credit cards . I deal in cash . The cyber world can’t get in because there’s nothing to get into . My financial world exists off shore . In long standing accounts established back in the day . I own my homestead free and clear and are prepared for all eventualities . I have water , solar, livestock, timber , black powder and brass to last a lifetime and then some . So yeah .... I can tune in and tune out . But wo be the unlucky sucker that tries to get inside my simple world . Oh yeah .... my dogs bite . Surprised ? I live with Annie Oakley and Fred and Paul are frightened of her . Just sayin ‘

Hollander Sends
Fred Klein

Paul and I should come and check it out.
Geraldine Newman

Fred, Paul, Neil - you three need a public blog. Your "3-way conversation" is interesting, witty, elucidating, thought-provoking ... think abut it.

Submitted by Judy_Mauer on Sat, 12/22/2018 - 10:17

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Judy Mauer

Watch and listening ....how ????
Kelly Welles

Gerry has a point though. Maybe a cartoon series? Your collective voices
represent much of our national lament.
Kelly Welles

Great shares all. To which I will add that while FB professes that it doesn’t “spy” on its members, it was recently discovered that FB turned over that authority to APP-makers, thus giving them the ability to monitor our every move. In return, that data is no doubt sold to Google and the Russians.
Shelley Simpson

Alas, it's true, it watches and records which means keeping a cover over the camera at all times unless I am pointing and shooting; and keep the phone out of the kitchen and bathroom at all times. Information from other locations in my life is fit for public consumption. :)

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