Security expert Bruce Schneier on a new piece from 404 Media:

This feels important:

The Secret Service has used a technology called Locate X which uses location data harvested from ordinary apps installed on phones. Because users agreed to an opaque terms of service page, the Secret Service believes it doesn’t need a warrant.

It’s more important than ever to realize that the vast majority of the devices and applications we rely on each day aren’t made for us.

At its most benign level, our need for entertainment, information, or help becomes a way to create a large geospatial model without our knowledge. For less benign outcomes, take a look at China or consult Orwell.

As I dip my toes back into open source software, I’m reminded just how much effort it takes. Disturbingly, I’ve also noticed how much harder it is than before to run open-source operating systems on modern devices. There are so many security barriers baked in at the firmware level that bypassing and disabling them has become a significant challenge.

I urge all of us to consider what you use, how you use it, and who manages those platforms. Embrace the challenge of actively managing your digital environment.

Consider all your platforms carefully. Yes, even Apple.