Explore the critical issues surrounding encryption backdoors and mass data collection in this thought-provoking conference talk from linux.conf.au. Delve into the history of RFC 1984, a statement on cryptographic technology and internet privacy from 1996, and examine how governments worldwide have since attempted to weaken encryption and expand surveillance. Analyze the implications of metadata retention laws, database misuse, and the unnecessary mass collection of personal data. Investigate the potential need for updating RFC 1984 to address current privacy concerns in the era of surveillance capitalism. Learn about the dangers of weakened encryption, the importance of data security, and the need for increased public awareness. Gain insights into the complex relationship between technology, privacy, and government surveillance, and consider the urgent need to protect individual privacy in the digital age.