
Controversies surrounding the Five Eyes Alliance
Before 2003, very little about the Five Eyes Alliance was known to the public. Things got clearer in 2013 when a former NSA contractor, Edward Snowden, leaked some documents connected to the Five Eyes alliance. These documents brought to light the widespread surveillance of the public’s online activities by this alliance. It also became clear that the intelligence-sharing alliance is more extensive than expected.The Five Eyes alliance operates out of government jurisdiction and control, making it very hard to trace their activities. One Prime Minister of Australia, Gough Whitlam, at one time, confessed that he was unaware of the existence or operations of this alliance. Controversy erupted recently after Canada, and the other members of the Five Eyes alliance released a report indicating that they were ready to sacrifice the online privacy of the public in a bid to increase security.It was also anticipated that the alliance was about to mount pressure on software and telecom companies to come up with ways of overcoming encryption. The statement released further indicated that all the countries of the alliance agreed to the need for the formation and enforcement of laws to gain access to specific data. These laws would be subject to strict safeguards, domestic consultations, and legal limitations.How can people protect themselves online?
With the increased spying activities by third parties to acquire data from the public, there is a need for users to protect themselves whenever they are online. Here are a few tips for users to stay safe when online:1. Use a good VPNApart from granting access to geographically restricted content, VPNs are also vital in encrypting the traffic that is transmitted to and from our devices. This is key to the safety of any user, as you’re the movement of your data cannot be traced by third parties, making it impossible for them to intercept it. VPNs also help online to stay anonymous and conceal their locations. In that case, third parties who target data from users in a particular location are not able to access your data.2. Install a web application firewall or antivirusIt is important to have a piece of software that protects your device against malicious files or software. Firewalls are also important for barring malicious users, especially when you are connected to a network with other users. These are the avenues spies exploit to acquire data unethically from other users. Antivirus software is also important for the protection of your devices against infection by malicious files and software.ConclusionIn a world filled with attackers and malicious users, it is almost impossible to survive without taking protective measures. Some of the best ways of fending off third parties who acquire data from users unethically include using strong protection software such as VPNs. Failure to take measures towards data security, your online privacy at risk.Related and recommended
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