Crossword More FAIR
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Dec 4, 2025 Luke and Jonathan dive into the FAIR project, highlighting its potential to enhance privacy. Luke's newfound enthusiasm is contagious as he describes the benefits of using FAIR's plugin. Jonathan raises vital concerns about data storage and transparency in centralized systems. They also discuss the Internet Archive's collaboration with Automattic, exploring the implications of such partnerships. The conversation uncovers the power dynamics of centralized services and how FAIR offers alternatives with local checks and event sourcing.
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Local Checks Improve Privacy
- FAIR reduces external privacy risks by running checks locally instead of pinging Automattic services.
- Luke realized many historic WordPress checks unnecessarily sent browser data offsite and FAIR avoids that.
Missing Policies Create Uncertainty
- Lack of clear policies about external pings raises privacy and data-use concerns for WordPress admins.
- Jonathan worries simple checks could accumulate sensitive usage data if undisclosed or stored centrally.
Centralization Concentrates Power
- Centralized services remaining under a single owner concentrate potential power and data control.
- Jonathan and Luke note many ping services shut down leaving one owned by Automattic, which is concerning.