I just think this is misguided. You don't pay for Debian Linux, but it respects your freedom and privacy. You do pay for Windows, but it will still extract value from your habits and usage patterns. The saying should be "if it's for-profit, you're the product."
Simmer down, math nerds. We're confronting the Demiurge here, not trying to find compatible drivers for a PNY graphics card. Here, take this copy of the Gospel of Thomas. You're going to need it when the bats arrive.
Another example I thought of: I volunteered at a food bank. As part of the training there, they went into detail about all the ways needed to protect their clients' privacy. Meanwhile, at the grocery store in town, they get you to sign up for a loyalty card so they can better track your purchases.
They’re actually cheaper than free because they actively give you money in exchange for you allowing them to track you
