Some internet users prefer to use some sort of encrypting feature when in wi-fi hot spots to shield their browsing and communication from snoopers. And after the Edward Snowden disclosures about NSA spying, some writers were suggesting the use of Tor which encrypts and relays internet traffic through numerous points around the world.
The NSA claims that its focus is on individuals outside the U.S. But unfortunately for Tor users, the use of that program flags the user as being outside the U.S. even if they are in the U.S.
Maybe domestic services like Witopia would allow the user to escape being profiled as "outside the U.S." But that raises the second red flag -- encryption. According to the slide show linked by The Guardian, the training for the Xkeyscore program points at the use of encryption as an anomalous event. See jpg on the right.
So basically, individuals trying to stay safe on the internet are fair game for nosy bureaucrats.
But don't worry, it's for the government. Unfortunately, it hasn't helped catch a terrorist, but Team Obama will think of something to do with it, even if it's only for domestic political purposes. After all, government is simply the name we give to the things we choose to do together. [Visualize sarcastic smirk.]
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