I’d say it’s certainly possible for the economics and business strategy to shift in a manner where consumers get a much worse deal like this indefinitely. But it’s really haad to say if it’s actually going to play out that way or we experience a return to the previous equilibrium

It’s a pretty complex topic but ever more valuable skill. I too believe AI will be used for mass surveillance that I don’t want to be a part of. Free, open source software is your best friend in general.

Windows and microsoft are particularly nasty in that they’ll record you where you interface with the computer (i.e. what the screen is showing and what you tell your own computer to do) and at some point will offer everything to the highest bidder. The offences of ISP and websites are pale in comparison.