# In reply to christyotwisty's 5 Qs for January 2026 
### - alfred's Gemini capsule


## What do you do when someone you don't know on a social or business network site tries to become a "friend" or otherwise connected to you?

I quit "The Social Network" long ago (2010, six months before the eponymous movie was released); I don't recall having used business networking sites.

Back when I was on said social network, I probably considered such requests in light of what else was known about the person from their posts and public profile information.

These days, were I on social or business networks, I'd probably just ignore it, since it's just as likely to be from a bot or some malicious actor.


## Do you worry about the data being collected by websites and search engines and what do you do to protect yourself? What do you advise to those who are not as technically skilled yet concerned nonetheless to do?


I don't worry, but I strive to keep sensitive data offline entirely, or where that's not feasible (e.g., medical, financial), keep it secured. Each person has to judge for themselves how much effort is worth it. I'm sure I could do more, but I only have so much technical skill and time to throw at the problem.

What I do:

* I use Linux for my OS
* My password manager is offline and not integrated into the browser
* I minimize my use of services from companies that make money through monetizing my data; e.g., I pay for (my main) email and web hosting instead of using "free" services
* I have a flip phone, and rarely use it; data, Bluetooth, geolocation, and wi-fi are usually turned off
* I changed many default settings in my web browser to maximize privacy and security
* I use alternative / privacy-respecting search engines when practicable
* I am spending more of my online web time on sites that are text-only, without javascript
* I am spending more of my online time in gopherspace and geminispace

I tried Tor, but didn't like how I couldn't use the full resolution of my screen, and how it broke on a lot of sites. I also ran Pi-Hole, which was admirably effective for awhile, but I found its storage media (a microSD card) was not resilient to power interruptions. 

With respect to those who are 

1) less techincally inclined than I am, but 
2) espouse concerns about data privacy, 

I am personally unaware of anyone who has been willing to do anything to meaningfully reduce the data flow from themselves to adtech companies that slurp it up. I can't even get my spouse or parents to use a password manager, let alone friends. When the abusive practices of some companies are pointed out, they will sigh and say "oh, I agree, it's terrible", but then offer reasons why it's impractical for them to change their digital habits. 

Convenience is a hell of a drug. So I no longer volunteer advice. If someone were to ask me, I would say "I'd be glad to help you address your concerns when you're ready and willing to make significant changes in your digital life. Until then, I'm sorry, I don't think there's anything else I can suggest." 


## How do you reward yourself for completing a difficult task?


If it's a mental task, I'll do something physical, like walk/hike/exercise. If it's a physical task I'll have a snack/drink, then decompress with some screen time (probably online, possibly TV or movie/documentary), and/or take a hot shower followed by a nap. 


## Have you or your family been affected by a natural disaster?


My in-laws had a tree fall on their house from a recent hurricane. They were not hurt, but because so many houses in the area were damaged by the storm, it took several months to get an available work crew to start repairs. 


## Have you ever called in a request or a dedication on a radio show or online radio stream?


As a teenager I probably called in a couple of song requests. But I don't recall ever making a dedication request, and I can think of a couple reasons why I wouldn't have. 


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Last edited: 2026-01-03