**TL;DR - It’s become increasingly evident, especially in recent times that technology is much more invasive with regards to our privacy. Particularly, where the sharing of our information is concerned.** I’m not talking about surveillance technology either here, no. Here, I’m talking about various companies, governments, organizations, and even individuals using technology to spy on us in our personal lives, as well as, sharing our data indiscriminately. Take for example what’s been happening just recently with WhatsApp. I’ve been hearing and seeing lots of complaints regarding their recent privacy policy update in which they will be sharing our data with Facebook. Also, if consent is not given then of course, you will no longer be allowed to use the WhatsApp application, deleting your account with all of its information. The issue here is, it’s not even really about the sharing of the data as much as it is about the type of data that is being shared, and how WhatsApp has gone about essentially forcing all current users to agree with this privacy policy if they want to continue making use of it. I mean, we are living in a digital era and have become used to (to a certain degree) the fact that we have to share some data. However, I think it’s just ridiculous that certain companies and organizations think that’s it’s okay to practically force us to share more or our personal data with them, and other companies too in some instances. Additionally, online gaming (which is huge) is another place where data sharing happens. Is it then only a matter of time before more personal data starts being requested here or is it already being done (hopefully not without our permission)? Other examples where we can also clearly see that technology has become invasive is with regards to basic digital products such as television and mobile phones. Everybody today knows, as I assume it’s an open secret, that these gadgets contain listening devices and can invade our privacy to a certain degree. I am totally against this, no matter what anyone's reason is for trying to reason with me why I need a listening device in any of my personal devices. So, it’s clear that while the sharing of one’s information will continue to happen, we need to make sure that it’s happening in a respectful and responsible manner. This means we need to do everything that we can from our side and stand up to these companies, organizations and government organizations. Even if it means having them implement stricter policies, mandates, guidelines, rules/regulations with regards to the transparency issues concerning the sharing of data, especially one’s personal data. Don’t get me wrong, technology itself is not necessarily bad and all doom and gloom. However, I think if the proper policies, mandates, guidelines, rules/regulations are implemented in an honest and transparent manner, then it will be a step in the right direction for us where these privacy and invasive issues are concerned. So, in my opinion despite the fact that technology has changed our lives and will undoubtedly continue to change our lives, at the end of the day I do feel that technology has become too invasive. Sources: 1) Best S. WhatsApp users DELETE app over fears data will be shared with Facebook. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-9134309/WhatsApp-users-ABANDON-app-fears-data-shared-Facebook.html [accessed January 15, 2021]. 2) Privacy violations – the dark side of social media... - BullGuard. https://www.bullguard.com/bullguard-security-center/internet-security/social-media-dangers/privacy-violations-in-social-media [accessed January 15, 2021].

**TL;DR - Our technology now second guesses what we want to buy, say or do - that is too invasive** That awful feeling, we all know it. Speaking about a new product we want to buy or place we want to visit and suddenly our social media feed is full of adverts for that exact thing! It is no new news to anyone that our data is a hot commodity. However, the fact we have no to little choice what data we give away and how invasive it really is - well, its intrusive and unnecessary. Now, there are also obvious positives to some more invasive technologies. In the last year sales of the [Ring Doorbell went up 180%] (https://www.vox.com/recode/2020/1/21/21070402/amazon-ring-sales-jumpshot-data)! There are benefits to technology such as the Ring Doorbell as they provide a feeling of safety, knowledge and protection. Some point to the hacking of a few to point to a lack of privacy - BUT - the fact they got hacked due to data leaks and password corruption is the invasive part, not necessarily the doorbell itself. Yes, there are obvious problems with how invasive our tech has become, but our natural idea of privacy is no longer the same concept as what it once was. These ‘invasive technologies’ can now improve health care, spot diseases and even help ones with disabilities communicate in new ways. Our choice in the extent of the invasiveness in our daily lives is more of a problem than what they can do. We live in a free world, and some conspiracies online don’t necessarily mean we live in Big Brother. Technology should not be so invasive that it influences our every move, but some of its invasive nature can be useful.

Modern technology—especially digital platforms and surveillance tools—has increasingly encroached on personal privacy and autonomy. Data collection by corporations and governments often occurs without full consent or transparency, leading to risks like identity theft, manipulation, and loss of control over personal information. The convenience of technology comes at the cost of diminishing boundaries between private and public life, raising ethical and legal concerns.