People are taking a patchwork approach to self-expression to feel like they have control over how their identity is generated. Yet as individual expression becomes more mutable and mistrust in social systems abounds, there’s one place above all that people are seeking integrity and guidance: brands.

Amid frequent news of privacy lapses from Big Tech firms, Americans are increasingly conscious of the fact that their information is often being collected without their consent. Canvas8 spoke to eight people to understand their views on data privacy and how they’re protecting themselves online.

With concerns around data security and censorship driving a growing sense of dissatisfaction with Big Tech, some people are searching for ways to communicate, socialise, and organise online outside of mainstream social media platforms. How will this shift transform the digital space?

With no visible product or service on offer, Nothing Tech was shrouded in mystery when it was announced in January 2021. Despite this, the self-described ‘consumer-based technology’ brand has attracted more than $22 million in investment from both everyday people and big names in the tech world.

While data is the lifeblood of many businesses in the digital era, growing distrust towards Big Tech firms has made Britons wary of the information being collected without their consent. Canvas8 spoke to eight people to understand their views on data privacy and how they protect themselves online.