The FreedomBox

FreedomBox is a project to develop a tiny box usable by ordinary humans without special computer knowledge, to help gain independence from the disturbing centralization of internet services.

Skilled computer enthusiasts (geeks) have evolved a set of common practices to stay in control of their personal privacy when online. Unfortunately those practices often involve setting up complex systems and interacting with text consoles.

Aim of FreedomBox is to provide those same well-tested privacy-protecting practices for ordinary humans.

The physical box is (or will be) like an internet gateway or wifi router but with three distinguishing features:

• Easy and intuitive to setup and personalize for non-geeks
• Offers routines to help you protect your privacy
• Offers routines to let you help others in need of privacy

"Privacy" is related to "secrecy" but not the same: Privacy is having control of your own information, deciding for yourself when you want to e.g. close the curtains or the door to your bathroom.

I am involved in the project, treating it as a Debian Pure Blend.

January 2011 I gave an interview about my involvement. I have since given talks on the subject at meetings and conferences in Brussels, Århus, Gothenburg, and Berlin.

Trip to Vietnam

On november 12-14 the FOSSASIA conference is held in Việt Nam, with fellow Debian hackers turning it into a Mini-Debconf.

When initially confronted with the plan at Debconf10 I was thrilled to participate. When returning home, however, I decided (or let my girlfriend decide for us) to move to a beautiful old cottage house — unfortunately clashing with the FOSSASIA event.

Recently Andreas, scheduled to give a speak on Debian Pure Blends at FOSSASIA, had to cancel his trip. I then decided to participate after all, as that subject has been a passion of mine for a few years: I would be sad if this wasn't promoted at FOSSASIA, and I should hopefully know enough of it for an interesting talk.

After FOSSASIA I will stay another 1½ week offering to exchange ideas and knowledge with hackers in the area of Hồ Chí Minh.

Thanks to the friends convincing me to participate, especially Héctor, Andrew and Paul. And thanks a bunch to Debian for sponsoring the flight tickets!