What is Reset The Net?

Reset The Net is a global campaign to protect internet privacy and digital rights. It started after Edward Snowden revealed in 2013 that the NSA was conducting mass surveillance on emails, phone calls, chat logs, and online activity. The initiative raises awareness about privacy, advocates for encryption, and encourages individuals to take action to secure their data.

Why It Matters

Your online privacy matters because even seemingly harmless data can be collected, tracked, and used by third parties. Every search, click, or social media interaction generates data that may be monitored. Non-Americans using US-based services may have zero privacy, as government agencies and corporations can access their information without consent.

How You Can Take Action

You are your own digital superhero. To protect your privacy:

Use services that do not track your online activity. Many are just as functional as mainstream alternatives, sometimes even better.
Support campaigns advocating for stronger encryption and privacy online.
Spread awareness: share on social media, write blogs, or talk about privacy tools in your community.

How to Participate

Tweet and share privacy awareness on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
Organize at school or work: encourage NSA-resistant privacy tools and practices.
Join campaigns like the Twitter Brigade to ask companies to implement encryption.
Use privacy-respecting services in your daily life.

Recommended Privacy Tools

Search: DuckDuckGo – does not track searches like Google does.
Operating System: Tails, BSD, Debian – secure and open-source.
Browser: Firefox (with Do Not Track enabled) or TOR Browser.
Email Client: Mozilla Thunderbird with Enigmail for encryption.
Maps: OpenStreetMap – privacy-focused alternative to Google Maps.
Cloud Storage: ownCloud – secure file storage.
Messenger: Pidgin with Off-the-Record Messaging (OTR) for encrypted chats.

Full privacy tool list: Reset The Net Pack

Security Tips

Always use HTTPS instead of HTTP.
Limit personal information shared online.
Be cautious about clicking links or accepting free offers; if it’s free, you might be the product.
Prefer apps and services that do not track you.