If you live in Mississippi, you may have noticed that you are no longer able to log into your Bluesky or Dreamwidth accounts from within the state. That’s because, in a chilling early warning sign for the U.S., both social platforms decided to block all users in Mississippi from their services rather than risk hefty fines under the state’s oppressive age verification mandate.

This consolidation of power is a dream come true for the Big Tech platforms, but it’s a nightmare for users. While the megacorporations get more traffic and a whole lot more user data (read: profit), users are left with far fewer community options and a bland, corporate surveillance machine instead of a vibrant public sphere. The internet we all fell in love with is a diverse and colorful place, full of innovation, connection, and unique opportunities for self-expression. That internet—our internet—is worth defending.

  • Bennyboybumberchums@lemmy.worldEnglish
    93·
    2 days ago

    Its got nothing to do with some frivolous ideology, and everything to do with not letting someone else manipulate me through convenience. People like you always have excuses, but the reality is that youre just lazy. You want your hand held by some tech daddy, you need your hand held by some tech daddy. Because other wise you might have to think for yourself. And that, well, thats just too much effort. No, better to bend over, spread cheeks, and present your arse to the gods of convenience. Well, that and all your data…