286: Untracked: The Role of Freedom Tech In Personal Security – Seth For Privacy

The Expat Money Show - With Mikkel Thorup

Seth for Privacy is a freedom maximalist and privacy advocate. He is the head of strategy and content for “Foundation Devices,” which builds Bitcoin-centric tools that empower you to reclaim your freedom. He also serves as the editor for Freedom Tech, a global hub championing Bitcoin builders, open-source developers, educators and privacy tech pioneers. Seth and I have a great discussion about the various freedom technologies available to increase your privacy. Enjoy!

TODAY'S CONVERSATION WITH SETH FOR PRIVACY

• Listen in to find out how Seth first took an interest in privacy issues while working for a cybersecurity firm when he realized the technology he was working on could be used to oppress humans.
• Hear how Seth started writing and podcasting about freedom issues in order to right some of the wrongs he had contributed to in his career.
• Learn why Seth believes that free and open-source privacy tools are vital in protecting one’s privacy from both government and corporate spying.
• Find out why Seth believes Bitcoin to be a core technology when it comes to privacy and security but why Bitcoin alone is not enough.
• Hear Seth and I discuss the importance of self-custody when it comes to Bitcoin to fully utilize it as “Freedom Money.”
• Listen to Seth unveil some of the easiest “levers” people can enact right away to increase their own privacy.
• Learn why Seth is opposed to “privacy maximalism.” Just as I say, there is no “Shangri-La” perfect country out there; the same holds true for privacy technology.
• Find out what Seth thinks of the popular privacy-centric messaging apps like Telegram, Signal and Simplex - are some better than others?
• Hear Seth explain the importance of an “always-on” VPN - a simple tool that, while sometimes creating a minor inconvenience on some websites, presents a huge privacy upgrade.
• Seth and I discuss our philosophy on how to decide when trade-offs in privacy are worth the gain in productivity or security.

RELATED EPISODES

241: How to Secure Your Online Identity - Josh Summers 223: Fortifying Your Digital Fortress: Top Privacy and Security Tips For Expats 162: How Privacy Can Protect You If They Come For You - Gabriel Custodiet

HOW TO FIND SETH FOR PRIVACY

Email: [email protected] Seth For Privacy on X

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CONCLUSION

It was great talking to Seth about the various technologies available to enhance your privacy in today’s digital age. Just as there is no “Shangri-La” perfect libertarian country out there, similarly, there is no perfect technology. Ultimately, the decisions you make in regard to how much privacy you are willing to give up in order to make your life or work more convenient. I have to make these decisions every day in my business, and the answers will look different for everyone. Hopefully, today’s discussion with Seth will continue to broaden your knowledge of the types of technologies available - and the rest is up to you! See you all next Wednesday for another Expat Money Show.

Mentioned in this episode:

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This year, I’m taking a private group into the Amazon rainforest—then we head to Fortaleza and explore Brazil’s booming Northeast coast. Think Amazon river cruises, beachfront developments, and wide-open opportunity. From the heart of the rainforest to pristine beaches most people only dream about—this is bucket-list meets Plan-B strategy. If you’ve ever wanted to see the real Brazil and scout investments along the way, this is it. Go to ExpatMoney.com/Brazil.

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