Introduction
Every day, millions of people rely on the Electronic Frontier Foundation's (EFF) Privacy Badger browser extension to block hidden trackers that turn your online activity into a product for Big Tech, advertisers, scammers, and data brokers. But did you know that the real problem goes far beyond creepy ads? Commercial surveillance enables government spying on a massive scale. Weak privacy laws allow data brokers to harvest your personal information—like your location over time—and sell it to agencies such as the FBI, CBP, and ICE, bypassing the warrant requirement. The EFF is fighting back through stronger laws, court advocacy, community investigations, and tools like Privacy Badger. This guide will walk you through exactly how you can join the fight and help end mass surveillance. With your support, we can reclaim privacy as a human right.
Estimated time to complete all steps: 30 minutes. No special skills required—just a willingness to act.
What You Need
- A computer or mobile device with an internet connection
- A modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Opera)
- A credit/debit card or PayPal account (optional, for donations)
- A few minutes to learn and take action
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Understand the Scope of the Problem
Before you can effectively help, it’s crucial to grasp why commercial surveillance is a gateway to government surveillance. Data brokers collect location, browsing habits, and more from thousands of sources. They then sell this data to law enforcement without a warrant. The EFF calls this the mass spying pipeline. Read EFF’s investigations to see how technologies like license plate readers and facial recognition are used to control communities. Knowledge is your first weapon.
Step 2: Install Privacy Badger
Privacy Badger is a free browser extension that automatically detects and blocks invisible trackers. It’s available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera. Visit privacybadger.org and click the download link for your browser. After installation, the badger icon will appear in your toolbar. No configuration needed—it works out of the box. You’ll immediately notice fewer targeted ads and faster page loads. But remember, this tool alone doesn’t stop government data buying. That’s where the next steps come in.
Step 3: Become an EFF Member or Donor
Membership directly funds EFF’s legal battles, policy advocacy, and technical tools. As a member, you’re not just donating—you’re joining a movement. For a limited time, new monthly or one-time donors can choose a Privacy Badger Crewneck sweatshirt featuring the embroidered badger mascot above traditional Chinese characters for “privacy.” Or get a set of puffy Ghostie stickers in Arabic, English, Japanese, Persian, Russian, and Spanish. If you prefer apparel, the new “Claw Back” t-shirt shows an orange cat swatting at street-level surveillance equipment. Go to eff.org/join, select your donation amount, and pick your gift. EFF is a top-rated charity (501(c)(3)), so your donation is tax-deductible.
Step 4: Spread the Word
One person can only do so much. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about how data brokers sell our privacy to the government. Share EFF’s articles and social media posts. You can also host a small gathering—virtual or in-person—to discuss surveillance issues and encourage others to join. Use the hashtag #EndMassSurveillance to amplify the message. The more people who understand the link between creepy ads and warrantless spying, the harder it becomes for policymakers to ignore.
Step 5: Advocate for Stronger Privacy Laws
EFF’s legal team is working on landmark cases, but they need public support. Sign up for EFF’s action alerts at eff.org/action. When a bill that weakens privacy is introduced, you’ll receive an email with a prewritten message to send to your representatives. Personalize it—mention that you’re a constituent who cares about ending the government’s backdoor purchase of personal data. Also, consider writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper explaining why commercial surveillance is a national security threat.
Step 6: Reduce Your Own Digital Footprint
While you fight systemic change, minimize your personal risk. Use Privacy Badger, a VPN for sensitive browsing, and avoid location-sharing apps. Regularly clear cookies and use private browsing modes. But remember: individual actions alone won’t dismantle the surveillance economy. That’s why joining EFF is your most impactful step.
Tips for Maximum Impact
- Join monthly: Recurring donations provide predictable funding for EFF’s long-term campaigns. Even $10/month makes a difference.
- Gift membership: Surprise a friend with an EFF membership and a sweatshirt. They’ll learn and act, too.
- Follow EFF: Stay updated via eff.org/updates or their social channels. Knowledge about new surveillance tech empowers you to respond.
- Combine steps: Install Privacy Badger, then immediately sign up for membership. You’ll have the tool and the movement working together.
- Talk to local officials: Many surveillance tools (like police drones and ALPRs) are bought at the city level. Attend town hall meetings and ask your council to reject contracts that allow data hoarding.
- Don’t get discouraged: Privacy victories often take years. Each member and each installed extension builds momentum.
Privacy is a human right because it gives you a fundamental measure of security and freedom. By following these steps, you’re not just blocking creepy ads—you’re cutting off the pipeline that feeds government surveillance. Let’s do this together.