Re: (renamed) Misc mailing list

[andrew]

On 22/04/18 09:32AM, Jean Louis wrote:
> * Whistler <whistler_wmz@163.com> [2022-04-18 06:26]:
> > Here (in Beijing) we have been required to scan a QR code with a
> > non-free covid 'contact tracing' app if we need to enter _anywhere_
> > since 2020, including the residence block of my own home.
> >
> > I don't think 'complaining' to any organizations would solve the
> > issue, as it's a much bigger issue than free software but free
> > software is an important factor.

> Does that mean that person is not allowed to be in China without
> having mobile phone?

No, but it does mean that perse won't be able to go anywhere.

> Does it mean one would basically starve and not get access to any
> resources without having mobile phone?

In large cities, during lockdowns, the government sends food to people,
but that's quite minimal.  Most of what my family eats is still
retreived through online shopping, the only way possible.  And all those
* shopping platforms require (1) a mobile phone and (2) nonfree
JavaScript.

> I would say that in that case, to avoid surveillance, one could or
> should, purchase one smart phone dedicated to that one specific
> application as to protect oneself and data on the phone from
> surveillance and abuse of information. The phone would be kept all
> time off until the checkpoint, then at checkpoint turned on, to pass

That's what I do when I'm alone.  When I'm with my parents, since I'm
not adult yet, I can get a pass by having my parents pass.

> > btw, I'd say: check your privilege, as you are obviously lucky
> > enough NOT affected by these issues which affects many things (not
> > limited to software freedom).

> I cannot understand "check your privilege". One person's situation
> does not make it a privilege for other person.

I'd say China is the exception rather than the norm here.

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