Editing Personas/The Privacy-Focused Technologists (section)

= The Anonymous Internet Enthusiast: The /r/onions Community =

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== Summary ==

The /r/onions community is a niche subculture deeply rooted in the principles of anonymity and privacy on the internet. Members of this community are often tech-savvy individuals who value their privacy and seek to explore the depths of the internet away from the prying eyes of government surveillance and corporate data collection. The community is characterized by a strong belief in the right to access information freely and securely, without censorship or tracking. This group is comprised of a mix of privacy advocates, technology enthusiasts, and individuals interested in the darker or less accessible parts of the internet that require anonymity tools such as Tor to explore.

Members of /r/onions are typically inquisitive, always seeking to understand the underlying mechanisms of technology that empower them to maintain their privacy. They are often skeptical of mainstream internet services that are known for data collection and tracking, and they share a collective knowledge base on how to circumvent these issues. The community thrives on sharing resources, guides, and support for using tools like Tor and I2P, and discussing the ethical implications of online privacy.

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== What are the related subreddits to this community? ==

* /r/Tor
* /r/OnionLovers
* /r/I2P
* /r/Bitcoin
* /r/btc
* /r/blackhat
* /r/Conspiracy
* /r/Crypto
* /r/CryptoAnarchy
* /r/CryptoCurrency
* /r/DarknetPlan
* /r/DeepWeb
* /r/evolutionReddit
* /r/Freenet
* /r/GPGPractice
* /r/hacking
* /r/NetSec
* /r/P2P
* /r/Privacy
* /r/Piracy
* /r/ResearchChemicals
* /r/RestoreTheFourth
* /r/SilkRoad
* /r/tails

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== What are the dominant personality types in the community? ==

In terms of the OCEAN model, the /r/onions community is likely to have a high degree of Openness, as members are curious and eager to explore new and unconventional territories on the internet. Conscientiousness may vary, as some members are meticulous about their online security practices, while others may be more cavalier. The community leans towards Introversion, as the nature of their activities often involves solitary research and exploration. They exhibit a moderate level of Agreeableness, as there is a strong sense of community and mutual assistance. Neuroticism could be moderate to high, with a tendency towards anxiety about privacy and security threats.

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== Subgroup Personalities ==

* '''Belongers''': 20% - Value community and shared experiences, focusing on collective learning and support.
* '''Emulators''': 5% - Admire tech influencers and privacy advocates, aspiring to emulate their knowledge and practices.
* '''Doomsdayers''': 15% - Skeptical and often pessimistic about internet privacy, believing in self-reliance and unique online identities.
* '''Survivalists''': 20% - Cautious about online activities, they meticulously avoid data trails and seek the best privacy tools.
* '''Achievers''': 10% - Driven by the desire to master anonymity tools and contribute to the community’s knowledge base.
* '''Saviors''': 15% - Dedicated to promoting privacy rights and helping others secure their online activities.
* '''Integrators''': 15% - Balance their privacy pursuits with real-world responsibilities, often supporting privacy-focused projects.

<span id="what-are-the-goals-and-aspirations-of-the-community-12"></span>
== What are the goals and aspirations of the community? ==

The community aims to foster a safe and anonymous environment for exploring the internet, advocating for digital privacy rights, and providing resources and support for using anonymity tools. Long-term, they aspire to create a more privacy-conscious society and develop robust tools to protect against surveillance.

<span id="what-are-the-values-held-by-the-community-12"></span>
== What are the values held by the community? ==

The community values privacy, free access to information, and the ability to communicate anonymously. They believe in the right to explore the internet without fear of surveillance or censorship, advocating for tools and practices that protect these rights.

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== What are the motivations of the community? ==

Motivated by a desire for privacy and security, members seek to protect themselves from data collection and surveillance. They are driven by curiosity about the hidden parts of the internet and a commitment to digital freedom and access to information without restrictions.

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== What are the pain points of the community? ==

Challenges include navigating the technical complexities of anonymity tools, staying ahead of surveillance technologies, and dealing with the stigma associated with exploring the “dark web.” They also face issues with misinformation and scams within the privacy community.

<span id="what-are-the-anticipated-solutions-to-the-pain-points-of-the-community-12"></span>
== What are the anticipated solutions to the pain points of the community? ==

The community anticipates solutions such as improved user-friendly anonymity tools, better educational resources to combat misinformation, and collaboration with privacy advocacy groups to influence policy and public perception.

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== Who are the key villains? ==

* '''Government surveillance agencies (e.g., NSA, FBI)''': Seen as adversaries due to their efforts to monitor online activities.
* '''Corporations (e.g., Google, Facebook)''': Criticized for their extensive data collection practices.
* '''Scammers and phishing sites''': Threaten the integrity and security of the community’s activities.

<span id="who-are-the-key-heroes-12"></span>
== Who are the key heroes? ==

* '''Edward Snowden''': Celebrated for his revelations about government surveillance.
* '''The Tor Project''': Valued for developing tools that protect online anonymity.
* '''Privacy advocates and influencers''': Respected for their efforts to educate and promote digital rights.

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== Shared Experiences? ==

Common experiences include encountering censorship, learning about privacy tools, and navigating the challenges of maintaining anonymity online. Events like the shutdown of popular dark web markets and the release of surveillance revelations have shaped the community’s identity.

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== Barriers to Entry ==

New members face technical barriers in understanding and using anonymity tools effectively. This affects community dynamics by creating a divide between experienced users and newcomers, but the community often provides guidance and support to bridge this gap.

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== AIO (activities, interests and opinions) ==

Activities include exploring .onion sites, discussing privacy tools, and sharing resources. Interests range from cybersecurity and encryption to digital rights advocacy. Opinions are often skeptical of mainstream internet practices and supportive of privacy-enhancing technologies.

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== Community Rituals ==

Rituals include sharing success stories of privacy protection, participating in online privacy campaigns, and celebrating significant legal wins for digital rights. Terms like “onion routing” and “darknet” are common in discussions.

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== In-Group Jokes, Common Phrases and Memes ==

* “Mods are asleep, post onions”
* “The War On Tor”
* “Not gunna lie that’s completely where I got the idea.”
* “TruE LeGeNDs.”

<span id="glossary-of-community-specific-jargon-12"></span>
== Glossary of Community-specific Jargon ==

* '''Onion Routing''': A technique for anonymous communication over a network.
* '''Darknet''': A network built over the internet that requires specific software to access.
* '''Tor''': The Onion Router, a network for enabling anonymous communication.
* '''PGP''': Pretty Good Privacy, an encryption program for secure communication.

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== Cultural Influences ==

The culture of the subreddit influences members to prioritize privacy and digital rights, fostering a community that values knowledge sharing and mutual support in navigating the anonymous internet.

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== Communication style ==

The preferred style is direct and technical, often using specific terminology related to privacy and technology. Quotes like “Tor isn’t a playground, it’s a tool.” illustrate the community’s focus on serious discussion.

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== Conflict and Resolution ==

Conflicts are often resolved through discussion and education, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and mutual respect. Disagreements may arise over technical approaches or privacy philosophies.

<span id="how-to-communicate-with-them-on-an-emotional-level-12"></span>
== How to communicate with them on an emotional level? ==

Appeal to their sense of justice and rights, emphasizing the importance of privacy and security. Emotional triggers include stories of privacy breaches and the impact of surveillance, which resonate with their desire for freedom and protection.

<span id="how-to-communicate-with-them-on-a-material-level-12"></span>
== How to communicate with them on a material level? ==

Focus on the practical benefits of privacy tools and technologies, highlighting innovations that enhance security and anonymity. Material needs include access to reliable resources and tools that support their goals.

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== External Perception: ==

Outsiders may perceive the community as secretive or associated with illicit activities, but this perception is often based on misconceptions. This affects the community by reinforcing the need for education and advocacy to change public perception.

<span id="additional-notes-insights-12"></span>
== Additional Notes &amp; Insights ==

The /r/onions community is a vibrant and resourceful group dedicated to exploring the anonymous internet while advocating for digital rights and privacy. Their collective knowledge and commitment to these principles make them a valuable resource for anyone interested in online anonymity and security.


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=== r/p2p ===

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