diff --git a/8-7-2024 - Why I quit discord. b/8-7-2024 - Why I quit discord. new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8238cf0 --- /dev/null +++ b/8-7-2024 - Why I quit discord. @@ -0,0 +1,65 @@ +# Why I Quit Discord: A Personal Statement + +## Privacy Concerns + +One of my main concerns has always been data protection and user +anonymity. While Discord's terms of service claim to prioritize users' +privacy, their actual policies have raised some red flags in my opinion. +As a vocal advocate for online freedom and security, I couldn't shake the +feeling that Discord wasn't doing enough to safeguard users' personal +information. + +This issue became even more pressing when considering the sheer volume of +user data being collected by Discord. With millions of registered users +worldwide, it's staggering to think about the amount of sensitive +information that's being stored on their servers. The truth is, I'm not +convinced that Discord takes sufficient measures to protect this +information from prying eyes. + +## Third-Party Clients and Modifications: A Threat to User Autonomy + +Another significant factor in my decision was Discord's restrictive +approach to third-party clients and modifications. As someone who values +user autonomy and the freedom to customize their online experience, I +found it disappointing that Discord wouldn't allow for more flexibility in +this regard. + +Discord's stance on this issue has been consistent, but in my opinion, it +flies in the face of their supposed commitment to giving users control +over their own experiences. The inability to use third-party clients or +modify the Discord app to suit one's needs seems arbitrary and +restrictive. + +## The Tencent Factor: A Concern for Government Surveillance + +Finally, let's address a rather contentious issue – the investment made by +Tencent, a Chinese technology conglomerate, in Discord. While I understand +that business partnerships are a natural part of any company's growth +strategy, this particular move has left me wondering about the potential +implications. + +With the involvement of Tencent comes the very real possibility of +increased scrutiny from both Chinese and American government agencies. As +we know, governments on both sides have been increasingly interested in +monitoring online activity and tracking user behavior. Given this context, +I couldn't help but feel uneasy about the prospect of our data being +accessed by entities with less-than-ideal motivations. + +## Conclusion + +In conclusion, while I appreciate the features and community that Discord +has to offer, my concerns regarding privacy, third-party clients, and +government involvement have led me to seek alternative platforms for +online communication. It's not a decision I've taken lightly, but one that +I feel necessary to protect my own digital freedom. + +I hope that others will consider these issues as well and join me in +exploring other options for online community-building. Ultimately, our +online experiences should be guided by principles of user autonomy, data +protection, and transparency – values that Discord has yet to fully uphold. + +However, a friendly reminder: you can add me on Session. +If you knew me on Discord you should know how to find me. If not, shoot me an +email to find out my Session ID via: +"discord.sucks ***at*** sllord ***full stop*** info". +Replace the "at" and "full stop" with a "@" and a "." respectively.