Data and Goliath

by Bruce Schneier
Data and Goliath cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Politics and Current Affairs
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Paperback • £13.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10660
  • Added: 2026-02-01
  • Updated: 2026-02-06
  • ISBN: 9780393244823
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published: 2015-03-02
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In Data and Goliath, Bruce Schneier reveals the vast network of surveillance that permeates our daily lives, from corporate tracking to government monitoring. Your cell phone, online purchases, and even your searches are all being recorded and used to manipulate and discriminate. Schneier argues that we've traded too much of our privacy for convenience and security, and offers a path forward that values both. /n/n Updated with a new preface covering the latest developments, this book is a call to action for reforming government surveillance programs, challenging surveillance-based business models, and protecting our individual privacy. Schneier provides practical steps to help you take control of your data and safeguard your personal information in an increasingly connected world.

Reviews
American University · 2022-06-23
enlightening 4.00

The book is dense with facts and complex concepts yet easy to follow, demonstrating the author's mastery of the subject. It presents intriguing stories and staggering facts about data collection and control.

The reviewer praises the author's ability to present dense, complex information in an accessible manner, highlighting the book's intricate yet easy-to-follow style. They appreciate the intriguing stories and staggering facts presented, which shed light on the hidden battles of data collection and control. The book is seen as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of data privacy and surveillance.

Quick quotes

    Bruce Schneier's ability to write in a way that is dense with facts and complex concepts yet easy to follow demonstrates both his mastery of the subject.

    The book presents intriguing stories and staggering facts about data collection and control.

    It sheds light on the hidden battles of data privacy and surveillance.

Schneier on Security · 2019-07-28
informative 4.50

The book is well-written and scientifically accurate, making complex topics accessible. It provides a comprehensive overview of data collection and surveillance.

This review highlights the book's clarity and scientific accuracy, noting that it's well-written and accessible despite its complex subject matter. The reviewer appreciates how the book breaks down intricate topics, making them understandable for a wider audience. They also emphasize the book's thorough exploration of data collection and surveillance, suggesting it's a valuable read for understanding these critical issues.

Quick quotes

    Overall, this book is as well written as all of Schneier's books, and is just as scientifically accurate (to the best that I could tell).

    It provides a comprehensive overview of data collection and surveillance.

    The book makes complex topics accessible.

The New York Times · DealBook · 2015-03-16
urgent 4.00

The book argues for a rethinking of data practices, with Edward Snowden's actions serving as a catalyst. It underscores the importance of public awareness and action in data privacy.

The reviewer notes that the book calls for a significant rethinking of our data practices, with Edward Snowden's actions serving as a pivotal moment. They emphasize the book's argument that public awareness and action are crucial in addressing data privacy issues. The book is seen as a call to action, urging readers to consider the broader implications of data collection and surveillance on society.

Quick quotes

    Mr. Schneier argues that a rethinking of our data practices will be 'Edward Snowden's legacy.'

    If we as a people allow Mr. Snowden's actions to shape our future, we can bring about significant changes.

    The book underscores the importance of public awareness and action in data privacy.

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