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    • Diplomjodler@lemmy.world
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      5 months ago

      Windows is closed source and controlled by Microsoft. There is no way to verify what it actually does on your PC and as long as it’s installed, your computer is not really yours.

      Linux is open source and closely scrutinized for security violations or any sort of data collection shitfuckery. That’s no guarantee, of course, but you have a far better chance of your computer not acting as a surveillance mechanism.

      Having said that, Linux does take some technical knowledge, so be prepared to put on some work before making the switch.

      • Colorfulhipp@lemmy.worldOP
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        5 months ago

        Thank you!

        Advice on the phone? I’ll do that first since it’s more important for now, and get enough info about linux to decide…

          • Colorfulhipp@lemmy.worldOP
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            5 months ago

            If I connect my personal gmail account on it (which I used on laptot too, with the school account) would they be able to access it again?

            • Diplomjodler@lemmy.world
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              5 months ago

              If there was malware on your machine that skimmed your password, it might be compromised. Better change it on a different device before logging in again. But that would amount to criminal malfeasance or at least criminal negligence on the part of your university. But better be safe than sorry.