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General discussion

Anyone have an opinion about NetShades 3... ?

Apr 8, 2008 6:44AM PDT

I don't do illegal things, I have nothing to hide... yet it kind of irks me that someone on the other side of the world can pull up a satellite image of my backyard just because I visited a site that captured my IP address. (literally they can. I have done it with IP addresses of other people. It is entirely possible). Consequently I have been doing research, off and on, for about a year as to how one protects their privacy on the internet.

I came across this program just today, that uses public proxy servers to place several roadblocks between a computer and inquisitive web masters, hackers, or the government of any nation who wants to keep track of me. Does anyone have any experience with this program (or any other for that matter)?

http://www.yuki.raynersoftware.com/netshade/

This is not an advert. If anyone knows of a better program, or a different way of preserving some form of anonymity on the net, then please let me know where I can learn more.

As always, thanks for any information in advance.

grim

Discussion is locked

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Simpler method?
Apr 8, 2008 6:47AM PDT

Use free wifi hotspots?

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Play spy games ?
Apr 8, 2008 7:15AM PDT

Never go to work the same way 2 times in a row? Never sleep in the same house twice? Go to a local Starbucks to look at the latest sports scores?

Grin

I just want a bit of privacy, thank you.

I'm the kind of guy that has a problem with the government asking to see which books I check out of the library. None of them are bad books... but I don't think anyone needs a database of what I think, say, or do being kept someplace.

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Do you use an ATM?
Apr 8, 2008 9:58AM PDT

If so, those serial numbers on the meal tickets are issued to you and recorded when and where you spend them.

Fix? Ask for coins.

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Yes, I know that, Bob.
Apr 8, 2008 10:48AM PDT

I know that electronic transactions can be tracked as quick as "enter" can be pushed. I know that cell phones now can be used to triangulate a user's location, and that is why they are now included in your local 911 system. I know that EZPass networks will track you on the highway or CCTV networks can be used, in metropolitan areas. I know Pawn shops take down personal information in case the item is stolen, and I know used video game stores do the same thing if you sell them your old X Box... just in case it was stolen too.

I know a little about a lot of stuff. I know very little about this subject (internet and IP address privacy) and that is why I asked. I asked because I have no desire to live like a Luddite, but I do desire to minimize my cross section on the radar.

Happy

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Sorry I mean legal tender such as dollar bills.
Apr 8, 2008 10:17PM PDT

If you continue down this line of reasoning, we all need more coin.

And I'll take my simplest solution to be "the easy answer." ANONYMOUS PROXY is sadly not so airtight. They could be owned by the Feds?

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Interesting question.
Apr 9, 2008 4:20AM PDT

Is something anonymous just because they say it is? I don't know. For that matter, it is illegal for the fed to gather certain types of information themselves... but not illegal for them to buy the data from data gather companies. Thus, the reason why recent legislation makes telecommunication companies exempt from being sued, for providing the information to the fed.

Be that as it may, I'm not worried about hiding from the fed... I'm worried about hiding from data mining companies. I'm tired of websites that pop up my local weather, when I didn't give them my zip code. I'm tired of my Tivo sending back information about my TV viewing habits too. I think if Tivo can make a buck by selling that stuff, then it should mean I get a discount on my bill.

I like being an anonymous individual. Funny thing is that when you go out of your way to remain anonymous, then people start wondering what you are trying to hide. I'm not trying to be a stainless steel rat. I'm just asking for the darn spotlight to quit shining in my eyes.

Wink

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Just recently in Congress the issue of legality was brought
Apr 9, 2008 5:56AM PDT

Up...

Then down. "May I remind you sir that we write the laws so when we decide to do this, it will be the law."

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Doing a bit of research...
Apr 8, 2008 7:25AM PDT

... this particular program seems to have a troubled history, when it comes to support, and long term stability.

Still, I would still like to find out more about the subject of net privacy. If anyone knows some good places to learn more, I would be very appreciative of y'all posting the links.

Happy

thanks

grim

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Just use Privoxy and Tor
Apr 11, 2008 1:40PM PDT

I, too am thinking about my privacy. I am tired of having ads within websites geared to my city. I really don't mind ads in general, but when they target whatever I have looked at in the past like cameras or DTV convertors... I feel very invaded. I Have tried Privoxy and TOR and they are fairly good... and free!

Okay.. Privoxy is better... using it and TOR makes your web access run reeeeeaaaalll s l o w.

I understand most of the bought-and-paid-for software is about the same but they have their own servers (with a yearly subscription), which speed up the web surfing experience. Also, they have an easier to use interface. kinda click buttons-and-go. So, if you don't want the hassle of fiddling around with port settings and stuff, buy the software.