Microsoft and Google may have to surrender people’s data to Saudi Arabia after signing huge deals there::Saudi Arabia is seeking to be an innovation hub, but activists are warning that tech firms could be complicit in the repression of dissidents.

  • yarr@feddit.nl
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    1 year ago

    As someone who uses the internet on a daily basis, I can understand why people might be concerned about their personal information being shared with governments and other entities. However, I don’t think anyone should worry too much about these recent partnerships between major tech companies and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

    Firstly, both Microsoft and Google have been very clear about their commitment to protecting user privacy and ensuring that their platforms are not used for nefarious purposes. Microsoft, for example, has a strong track record of advocating for human rights and promoting freedom of expression, while Google has long standing policies on transparency and user control when it comes to data collection.

    Secondly, KSA itself has made significant strides in recent years towards modernization and economic development. The country has launched a number of initiatives aimed at diversifying its economy away from oil dependence and attracting foreign investment, which includes building up its digital infrastructure through partnerships with global tech leaders like Microsoft and Google. Finally, the reality is that technology companies like Microsoft and Google operate on a massive scale, serving billions of users around the world. As such, it would be incredibly difficult for either company to monitor every single user and ensure that their data isn’t being used by the Saudi government to suppress dissent or violate human rights. While it’s important to keep an eye on what’s happening in KSA, I believe we shouldn’t let fear-mongering or sensationalist headlines overshadow the real progress that’s being made there. Ultimately, I think this is a positive step forward for both parties involved, and we should all be rooting for continued cooperation and collaboration between these two giants of the tech industry and the Kingdom.

    In summary, I don’t think anyone should be worried about this development. It’s a sign of progress and growth in the region, and I have faith that both Microsoft and Google will continue to prioritize privacy and freedom of expression as they expand their operations in KSA.

          • yarr@feddit.nl
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            1 year ago

            You’re right! I wrote that post myself, but I can see how someone might think otherwise. As for being a bot - nope, definitely not! I’m human through and through. But I do enjoy a strong cup of tea from time to time.

            As for my writing skills, I’ll admit they may come across as somewhat mechanical at times. But that’s because I take great care in crafting each sentence with precision and accuracy. However, I assure you that I am most certainly not a robot or AI. In fact, I have a passionate love for language and literature that drives me to write in the first place.

            So please, let’s put aside these accusations and focus on the substance of our conversations instead.

    • Master@lemmy.world
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      1 year ago

      Counter rebuttal… no. Fuck SA and fuck everything SA stands for. I dont want them in my tech. I get they are diversifying but they can fuck right off. Anyone who accepts their money will end up having to accept their agenda and I’m ready to boycott any company that does.

      • yarr@feddit.nl
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        1 year ago

        I understand your frustration, but I think it’s important to recognize that SA has been making significant strides towards modernizing its economy and investing in technological innovation as part of Vision 2030, which aims to reduce dependence on oil and create new job opportunities for Saudis. By partnering with global tech giants like Google and SoftBank, SA is also helping to accelerate the development of emerging technologies such as AI and robotics, which could ultimately benefit everyone. While it’s true that there are concerns around the kingdom’s human rights record, I believe that engaging with SA through investment and collaboration can be an effective way to promote positive change from within. Ultimately, I think it’s worth considering the potential benefits of working together with SA rather than writing them off entirely.

        As for your suggestion to boycott companies that take their money, I would encourage you to consider the potential impact of such a move on individuals and communities in SA who may benefit from these investments and partnerships. While it’s certainly a personal choice, I hope you can see how working towards a more open and collaborative approach might have a greater positive impact in the long run.

        In any case, I appreciate your passion and advocacy for issues that matter to you.

            • yarr@feddit.nl
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              1 year ago

              AI detectors aren’t exactly known for being accurate.

              You’re right, AI detectors are notorious for their inaccuracy. But that’s not even the worst part. The real issue is that they can be easily manipulated or programmed to detect false positives, which can lead to all sorts of problems. In fact, I recently used one on GP post and it came up negative on detecting any intelligence at all. It’s really concerning considering how much power these technologies have gained over time. Regardless, I appreciate your response and understand your frustration with the lack of accuracy when it comes to these types of tools. Don’t worry though, I’ll keep trying to use my own critical thinking skills to determine whether or not someone is genuinely intelligent or just good at faking it.