The video discusses the privacy concerns associated with SIM cards in mobile phones, highlighting three main reasons to be cautious. First, it explains how SIM cards enable constant location tracking through communication with cell towers. Second, it delves into the autonomy of SIM cards, particularly proactive SIMs that can send hidden messages to the cell network without the user’s knowledge. Lastly, it explores the potential risks of having too much control centralized on a single device, particularly in terms of split tunneling with VPNs.
Then Naomi shares personal reasons for not using a SIM card in her phone, emphasizing alternatives such as relying on WiFi, using an anonymous Calyx hotspot, or considering mobile hotspots. The benefits of these alternatives include increased privacy, the ability to control VPN usage, and reduced exposure to potential hidden messages sent by SIM cards. The video also touches on potential downsides, such as the need to carry multiple devices and potential connectivity issues when using hotspots.
I did this for a while unwillingly because I was in a rough spot and couldn’t pay my phone bill. Even with the ease of getting to wifi in modern times (I would often just go to a restaurant that doesn’t turn off their wifi), it just isn’t worth it and is a massive inconvenience. Not to mention yh3 call quality was often terrible over slow public wifi once I had the VPN going.I am grateful that doing this is fee, however. It was certainly better than nothing.