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*Read and share online: .*
Welcome to the *Free Software Supporter*, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and **230,967** other activists.
## TABLE OF CONTENTS
* Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16! * Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software * FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years * Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs * Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship * Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment * Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web * GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0 released * August GNU Emacs news * Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory * LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists * August GNU Spotlight with Amin Bandali: Fifteen new GNU releases! * FSF and other free software events * Thank GNUs! * GNU copyright contributions * Translations of the *Free Software Supporter* * Take action with the FSF!
View this issue online here: .
Encourage your friends to subscribe and help us build an audience by adding our subscriber widget to your website.
* Subscribe: . * Widget: .
Miss an issue? You can catch up on back issues at .
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the *Supporter* in French, Portuguese, or Spanish.
***
### Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16!
*From August 5 by FSF and August 15 by Christine Hall*
The rumors are true -- the FSF is going fully remote! Last month, we welcomed many free software activists to our office on 51 Franklin Street, our home for almost 20 years. We're very excited for this new chapter in the FSF's history, and are confident that we are now very well-positioned to continue advocating for user freedom far into the future. If you missed the party, or haven't visited the office in a while, we have a photo tour of our workspace from 2010 below. Our executive director, Zoë Kooyman, also remarked on our shift to remote work, why we made this decision, and our hopes for how this change will strengthen the FSF.
* . * . * .
### Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software
*From August 8*
The Free Software Foundation Europe will be intervening in litigation brought by Apple against the European Commission before the Court of Justice of the European Union with the goal of protecting free software against another attempt at corporate control of software. Apple is seemingly tireless in seeking new ways to avoid DMA obligations, and there are probably still a few more developments on the way before this case can be closed.
* .
### FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years
*From August 21 by Isobel O'Sullivan*
It seems that data leaks, faulty updates, and cybersecurity attacks are endemic right now, but what about a data exposure lasting over three years? Since 2021, FlightAware's customer personal data has been available for anyone to access since 2021 because of a "configuration error," and was only discovered a few weeks ago. Not only is it widely acceptable for proprietary software companies to bar us from studying whether software is actually respecting our data, it seems that we can't trust them to discover problems in a reasonable time frame, either. If you or anyone you know has an account with FlightAware, it might be time to reconsider how wise that is.
* .
### Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs
*From August 21 by Tom Warren*
Microsoft is in the news this month for interfering with GNU/Linux systems via their latest security update that is now blocking GNU/Linux installs from booting properly on dual-boot devices. Reportedly, this patch was intended to enhance Windows security by obstructing vulnerable GNU/Linux boot loaders, and was not supposed to be applied to dual-boot systems. We now know that this was an inaccurate assumption by Microsoft that has impacted GNU/Linux dual-boot users worldwide, and Microsoft seems to have made zero plans to remedy the issues caused by their update. If you were affected by this update (and need help getting around these issues) or simply want to know more about how it has messed with dual-boot Windows and GNU/Linux devices, take a look at the Verge article below.
* .
### Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship
*From August 19 by Adam Schwartz, Mario Trujillo, and Aaron Mackey*
Free speech and privacy won a victory last month after a federal appellate court last week prevented enforcement of the 2022 California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act (CAADCA) based on the finding that parts of it likely violate the First Amendment, and that other parts require further review by the lower court. The CAADCA requires a majority of businesses to use invasive age-detection technology and/or only publish content deemed "age-appropriate," which not only forces users to provide an excessive amount of personal data, but also burdens online speech (both adults and minors), likely including access to news about current events and community resources for mental health help and abuse. At least for now, the right for internet users of all ages to access and disseminate lawful speech online is protected in California.
* .
### Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment
*From August 9 by Cindy Carter*
A few weeks ago, the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China published a draft law proposing a "voluntary" national Internet ID program and opened it up for public comment. Since then, there has been significant public discussion about the proposed draft law as well as censorship of this discussion, ranging from blocking related search terms to disabling comment sections on verified posts. This draft law, should it pass (which seems likely right now) will almost certainly chill free speech (among other negative effects), and could set a precedent for other countries.
* .
### Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web
*From August 6 by Natasha Lomas (TechCrunch) and August 14 (The Guardian)*
A US district court found Google guilty of operating an illegal monopoly earlier this month. While it is encouraging to see Google confronted with their blatant abuse of power over computer users, we should remain vigilant about any "remedies" that they offer. It's still too early to say whether any "solutions" that will be coming out of this ruling will be a win or loss for user freedom, especially knowing that Google doesn't prioritize user freedom or privacy.
* . * .
### GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0 released
*From August 29*
We're pleased to announce the release of GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0. See the release notes for full details and upgrading instructions:
### Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat, and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client. Everyone's welcome!
The next meeting is this Friday, September 6, from 12:00 to 15:00 EDT (16:00 to 19:00 UTC). Details here: .
* .
### LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists
Every month on [the LibrePlanet wiki](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Main_Page), we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting LibrePlanet Artists, which is a network of graphic designers, photographers, illustrators, videographers, animators, and audio engineers committed to creating free artwork only using free software. They help to create educational materials and other media for LibrePlanet teams, as well as to advocate for free software generally.
* .
Do you have a suggestion for next month's featured resource? Let us know at .
### August GNU Spotlight with Amin Bandali: Fifteen new GNU releases!
Fifteen new GNU releases in the last month (as of August 31, 2024):
For announcements of most new GNU releases, subscribe to the info-gnu mailing list: .
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from . Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at , or you may use to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
A number of GNU packages, as well as the GNU operating system as a whole, are looking for maintainers and other assistance. Please see if you'd like to help. The general page on how to help GNU is at .
If you have a working or partly working program that you'd like to offer to the GNU project as a GNU package, see .
As always, please feel free to write to me, , with any GNUish questions or suggestions for future installments.
### FSF and other free software events * September 14-16, 2024, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic, [GNU Tools Cauldron](https://gcc.gnu.org/wiki/cauldron2024) * September 21, 2024, [Software Freedom Day](https://digitalfreedoms.org/) * October 17, 2024, [Electronic Frontier Foundation](https://supporters.eff.org/civicrm/event/register?id=459&reset=1) * October 27-29, 2024, Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC, [ATO](https://2024.allthingsopen.org/) * November 8-9, 2024, Online and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, [SeaGL](https://seagl.org/)
### Thank GNUs!
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
* .
This month, a big Thank GNU to:
* Antonio Carzaniga * Casper Freksen * Christian Sperr * Louis Holbrook * Matomo.org * Minoru Sekine * Nick Graham
You can add your name to this list by donating at .
### GNU copyright contributions
Assigning your copyright to the Free Software Foundation helps us defend the GNU GPL and keep software free.
Want to see your name on the GNU copyright contribution list? Contribute to GNU and assign your copyright to the FSF.
* .
### Translations of the *Free Software Supporter*
El *Free Software Supporter* está disponible en español. Para ver la versión en español haz click aquí: .
**Para cambiar las preferencias de usuario y recibir los próximos números del *Supporter* en español, haz click aquí:** .
Le *Free Software Supporter* est disponible en français. Pour voir la version française cliquez ici: .
**Pour modifier vos préférences et recevoir les prochaines publications du *Supporter* en français, cliquez ici:** .
O *Free Software Supporter* está disponível em português. Para ver a versão em português, clique aqui: .
**Para alterar as preferências do usuário e receber as próximas edições do *Supporter* em português, clique aqui:** .
### Take action with the FSF!
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at . If you're already a member, you can help refer new members (and earn some rewards) by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
> I'm an FSF member -- Help us support software freedom! > .
The FSF is always looking for [volunteers](https://www.fsf.org/volunteer). From rabble-rousing to hacking, from issue coordination to envelope stuffing -- there's something here for everybody to do. Also, head over to our [campaigns section](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns) and [take action on software patents](https://endsoftwarepatents.org/), [Digital Restrictions Management](https://www.defectivebydesign.org/), [free software](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Group:Freedom_Ladder) adoption, [OpenDocument](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns/opendocument/download), and more.
**Do you read and write Portuguese and English?** The FSF is looking for translators for the *Free Software Supporter*. Please send an email to with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications. -- Interested in helping us expand our reach?
* Follow us on Mastodon at and PeerTube at , showing your support for federated social networks. * Get active on the LibrePlanet wiki: * Share on your blog or [social network](https://www.fsf.org/share) that you support us, and why you do so. * Subscribe to our RSS feeds: * Join us as an associate member: ; and display your membership button () on your website.
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Welcome to the Free Software Supporter, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and 230,967 other activists.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16!
Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software
FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years
Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs
Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship
Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment
Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web
GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0 released
August GNU Emacs news
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists
August GNU Spotlight with Amin Bandali: Fifteen new GNU releases!
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the Supporter in French, Portuguese, or Spanish.
Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16!
From August 5 by FSF and August 15 by Christine Hall
The rumors are true -- the FSF is going fully remote! Last month, we welcomed many free software activists to our office on 51 Franklin Street, our home for almost 20 years. We're very excited for this new chapter in the FSF's history, and are confident that we are now very well-positioned to continue advocating for user freedom far into the future. If you missed the party, or haven't visited the office in a while, we have a photo tour of our workspace from 2010 below. Our executive director, Zoë Kooyman, also remarked on our shift to remote work, why we made this decision, and our hopes for how this change will strengthen the FSF.
Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software
From August 8
The Free Software Foundation Europe will be intervening in litigation brought by Apple against the European Commission before the Court of Justice of the European Union with the goal of protecting free software against another attempt at corporate control of software. Apple is seemingly tireless in seeking new ways to avoid DMA obligations, and there are probably still a few more developments on the way before this case can be closed.
FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years
From August 21 by Isobel O'Sullivan
It seems that data leaks, faulty updates, and cybersecurity attacks are endemic right now, but what about a data exposure lasting over three years? Since 2021, FlightAware's customer personal data has been available for anyone to access since 2021 because of a "configuration error," and was only discovered a few weeks ago. Not only is it widely acceptable for proprietary software companies to bar us from studying whether software is actually respecting our data, it seems that we can't trust them to discover problems in a reasonable time frame, either. If you or anyone you know has an account with FlightAware, it might be time to reconsider how wise that is.
Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs
From August 21 by Tom Warren
Microsoft is in the news this month for interfering with GNU/Linux systems via their latest security update that is now blocking GNU/Linux installs from booting properly on dual-boot devices. Reportedly, this patch was intended to enhance Windows security by obstructing vulnerable GNU/Linux boot loaders, and was not supposed to be applied to dual-boot systems. We now know that this was an inaccurate assumption by Microsoft that has impacted GNU/Linux dual-boot users worldwide, and Microsoft seems to have made zero plans to remedy the issues caused by their update. If you were affected by this update (and need help getting around these issues) or simply want to know more about how it has messed with dual-boot Windows and GNU/Linux devices, take a look at the Verge article below.
Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship
From August 19 by Adam Schwartz, Mario Trujillo, and Aaron Mackey
Free speech and privacy won a victory last month after a federal appellate court last week prevented enforcement of the 2022 California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act (CAADCA) based on the finding that parts of it likely violate the First Amendment, and that other parts require further review by the lower court. The CAADCA requires a majority of businesses to use invasive age-detection technology and/or only publish content deemed "age-appropriate," which not only forces users to provide an excessive amount of personal data, but also burdens online speech (both adults and minors), likely including access to news about current events and community resources for mental health help and abuse. At least for now, the right for internet users of all ages to access and disseminate lawful speech online is protected in California.
Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment
From August 9 by Cindy Carter
A few weeks ago, the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China published a draft law proposing a "voluntary" national Internet ID program and opened it up for public comment. Since then, there has been significant public discussion about the proposed draft law as well as censorship of this discussion, ranging from blocking related search terms to disabling comment sections on verified posts. This draft law, should it pass (which seems likely right now) will almost certainly chill free speech (among other negative effects), and could set a precedent for other countries.
Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web
From August 6 by Natasha Lomas (TechCrunch) and August 14 (The Guardian)
A US district court found Google guilty of operating an illegal monopoly earlier this month. While it is encouraging to see Google confronted with their blatant abuse of power over computer users, we should remain vigilant about any "remedies" that they offer. It's still too early to say whether any "solutions" that will be coming out of this ruling will be a win or loss for user freedom, especially knowing that Google doesn't prioritize user freedom or privacy.
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat, and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client. Everyone's welcome!
LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists
Every month on the LibrePlanet wiki, we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting LibrePlanet Artists, which is a network of graphic designers, photographers, illustrators, videographers, animators, and audio engineers committed to creating free artwork only using free software. They help to create educational materials and other media for LibrePlanet teams, as well as to advocate for free software generally.
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from https://ftp.gnu.org/gnu/. Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at https://www.gnu.org/prep/ftp.html, or you may use https://ftpmirror.gnu.org/ to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
October 27-29, 2024, Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC, ATO
November 8-9, 2024, Online and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, SeaGL
Thank GNUs!
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at https://my.fsf.org/join. If you're already a member, you can help refer new members (and earn some rewards) by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
Do you read and write Portuguese and English? The FSF is looking for translators for the Free Software Supporter. Please send an email to campaigns@fsf.org with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications.
*Please consider adding to your address book, which will ensure that our messages reach you and not your spam box.*
*Read and share online: .*
Welcome to the *Free Software Supporter*, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and **230,967** other activists.
## TABLE OF CONTENTS
* Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16! * Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software * FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years * Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs * Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship * Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment * Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web * GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0 released * August GNU Emacs news * Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory * LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists * August GNU Spotlight with Amin Bandali: Fifteen new GNU releases! * FSF and other free software events * Thank GNUs! * GNU copyright contributions * Translations of the *Free Software Supporter* * Take action with the FSF!
View this issue online here: .
Encourage your friends to subscribe and help us build an audience by adding our subscriber widget to your website.
* Subscribe: . * Widget: .
Miss an issue? You can catch up on back issues at .
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the *Supporter* in French, Portuguese, or Spanish.
***
### Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16!
*From August 5 by FSF and August 15 by Christine Hall*
The rumors are true -- the FSF is going fully remote! Last month, we welcomed many free software activists to our office on 51 Franklin Street, our home for almost 20 years. We're very excited for this new chapter in the FSF's history, and are confident that we are now very well-positioned to continue advocating for user freedom far into the future. If you missed the party, or haven't visited the office in a while, we have a photo tour of our workspace from 2010 below. Our executive director, Zoë Kooyman, also remarked on our shift to remote work, why we made this decision, and our hopes for how this change will strengthen the FSF.
* . * . * .
### Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software
*From August 8*
The Free Software Foundation Europe will be intervening in litigation brought by Apple against the European Commission before the Court of Justice of the European Union with the goal of protecting free software against another attempt at corporate control of software. Apple is seemingly tireless in seeking new ways to avoid DMA obligations, and there are probably still a few more developments on the way before this case can be closed.
* .
### FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years
*From August 21 by Isobel O'Sullivan*
It seems that data leaks, faulty updates, and cybersecurity attacks are endemic right now, but what about a data exposure lasting over three years? Since 2021, FlightAware's customer personal data has been available for anyone to access since 2021 because of a "configuration error," and was only discovered a few weeks ago. Not only is it widely acceptable for proprietary software companies to bar us from studying whether software is actually respecting our data, it seems that we can't trust them to discover problems in a reasonable time frame, either. If you or anyone you know has an account with FlightAware, it might be time to reconsider how wise that is.
* .
### Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs
*From August 21 by Tom Warren*
Microsoft is in the news this month for interfering with GNU/Linux systems via their latest security update that is now blocking GNU/Linux installs from booting properly on dual-boot devices. Reportedly, this patch was intended to enhance Windows security by obstructing vulnerable GNU/Linux boot loaders, and was not supposed to be applied to dual-boot systems. We now know that this was an inaccurate assumption by Microsoft that has impacted GNU/Linux dual-boot users worldwide, and Microsoft seems to have made zero plans to remedy the issues caused by their update. If you were affected by this update (and need help getting around these issues) or simply want to know more about how it has messed with dual-boot Windows and GNU/Linux devices, take a look at the Verge article below.
* .
### Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship
*From August 19 by Adam Schwartz, Mario Trujillo, and Aaron Mackey*
Free speech and privacy won a victory last month after a federal appellate court last week prevented enforcement of the 2022 California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act (CAADCA) based on the finding that parts of it likely violate the First Amendment, and that other parts require further review by the lower court. The CAADCA requires a majority of businesses to use invasive age-detection technology and/or only publish content deemed "age-appropriate," which not only forces users to provide an excessive amount of personal data, but also burdens online speech (both adults and minors), likely including access to news about current events and community resources for mental health help and abuse. At least for now, the right for internet users of all ages to access and disseminate lawful speech online is protected in California.
* .
### Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment
*From August 9 by Cindy Carter*
A few weeks ago, the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China published a draft law proposing a "voluntary" national Internet ID program and opened it up for public comment. Since then, there has been significant public discussion about the proposed draft law as well as censorship of this discussion, ranging from blocking related search terms to disabling comment sections on verified posts. This draft law, should it pass (which seems likely right now) will almost certainly chill free speech (among other negative effects), and could set a precedent for other countries.
* .
### Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web
*From August 6 by Natasha Lomas (TechCrunch) and August 14 (The Guardian)*
A US district court found Google guilty of operating an illegal monopoly earlier this month. While it is encouraging to see Google confronted with their blatant abuse of power over computer users, we should remain vigilant about any "remedies" that they offer. It's still too early to say whether any "solutions" that will be coming out of this ruling will be a win or loss for user freedom, especially knowing that Google doesn't prioritize user freedom or privacy.
* . * .
### GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0 released
*From August 29*
We're pleased to announce the release of GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0. See the release notes for full details and upgrading instructions:
### Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat, and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client. Everyone's welcome!
The next meeting is this Friday, September 6, from 12:00 to 15:00 EDT (16:00 to 19:00 UTC). Details here: .
* .
### LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists
Every month on [the LibrePlanet wiki](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Main_Page), we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting LibrePlanet Artists, which is a network of graphic designers, photographers, illustrators, videographers, animators, and audio engineers committed to creating free artwork only using free software. They help to create educational materials and other media for LibrePlanet teams, as well as to advocate for free software generally.
* .
Do you have a suggestion for next month's featured resource? Let us know at .
### August GNU Spotlight with Amin Bandali: Fifteen new GNU releases!
Fifteen new GNU releases in the last month (as of August 31, 2024):
For announcements of most new GNU releases, subscribe to the info-gnu mailing list: .
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from . Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at , or you may use to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
A number of GNU packages, as well as the GNU operating system as a whole, are looking for maintainers and other assistance. Please see if you'd like to help. The general page on how to help GNU is at .
If you have a working or partly working program that you'd like to offer to the GNU project as a GNU package, see .
As always, please feel free to write to me, , with any GNUish questions or suggestions for future installments.
### FSF and other free software events * September 14-16, 2024, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic, [GNU Tools Cauldron](https://gcc.gnu.org/wiki/cauldron2024) * September 21, 2024, [Software Freedom Day](https://digitalfreedoms.org/) * October 17, 2024, [Electronic Frontier Foundation](https://supporters.eff.org/civicrm/event/register?id=459&reset=1) * October 27-29, 2024, Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC, [ATO](https://2024.allthingsopen.org/) * November 8-9, 2024, Online and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, [SeaGL](https://seagl.org/)
### Thank GNUs!
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
* .
This month, a big Thank GNU to:
* Antonio Carzaniga * Casper Freksen * Christian Sperr * Louis Holbrook * Matomo.org * Minoru Sekine * Nick Graham
You can add your name to this list by donating at .
### GNU copyright contributions
Assigning your copyright to the Free Software Foundation helps us defend the GNU GPL and keep software free.
Want to see your name on the GNU copyright contribution list? Contribute to GNU and assign your copyright to the FSF.
* .
### Translations of the *Free Software Supporter*
El *Free Software Supporter* está disponible en español. Para ver la versión en español haz click aquí: .
**Para cambiar las preferencias de usuario y recibir los próximos números del *Supporter* en español, haz click aquí:** .
Le *Free Software Supporter* est disponible en français. Pour voir la version française cliquez ici: .
**Pour modifier vos préférences et recevoir les prochaines publications du *Supporter* en français, cliquez ici:** .
O *Free Software Supporter* está disponível em português. Para ver a versão em português, clique aqui: .
**Para alterar as preferências do usuário e receber as próximas edições do *Supporter* em português, clique aqui:** .
### Take action with the FSF!
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at . If you're already a member, you can help refer new members (and earn some rewards) by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
> I'm an FSF member -- Help us support software freedom! > .
The FSF is always looking for [volunteers](https://www.fsf.org/volunteer). From rabble-rousing to hacking, from issue coordination to envelope stuffing -- there's something here for everybody to do. Also, head over to our [campaigns section](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns) and [take action on software patents](https://endsoftwarepatents.org/), [Digital Restrictions Management](https://www.defectivebydesign.org/), [free software](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Group:Freedom_Ladder) adoption, [OpenDocument](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns/opendocument/download), and more.
**Do you read and write Portuguese and English?** The FSF is looking for translators for the *Free Software Supporter*. Please send an email to with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications. -- Interested in helping us expand our reach?
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Welcome to the Free Software Supporter, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and 230,967 other activists.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16!
Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software
FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years
Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs
Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship
Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment
Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web
GNU MediaGoblin 0.14.0 released
August GNU Emacs news
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists
August GNU Spotlight with Amin Bandali: Fifteen new GNU releases!
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the Supporter in French, Portuguese, or Spanish.
Join us in saying goodbye to our beloved office on August 16!
From August 5 by FSF and August 15 by Christine Hall
The rumors are true -- the FSF is going fully remote! Last month, we welcomed many free software activists to our office on 51 Franklin Street, our home for almost 20 years. We're very excited for this new chapter in the FSF's history, and are confident that we are now very well-positioned to continue advocating for user freedom far into the future. If you missed the party, or haven't visited the office in a while, we have a photo tour of our workspace from 2010 below. Our executive director, Zoë Kooyman, also remarked on our shift to remote work, why we made this decision, and our hopes for how this change will strengthen the FSF.
Apple vs EU commission: The FSFE intervenes to safeguard free software
From August 8
The Free Software Foundation Europe will be intervening in litigation brought by Apple against the European Commission before the Court of Justice of the European Union with the goal of protecting free software against another attempt at corporate control of software. Apple is seemingly tireless in seeking new ways to avoid DMA obligations, and there are probably still a few more developments on the way before this case can be closed.
FlightAware customer data left exposed for over three years
From August 21 by Isobel O'Sullivan
It seems that data leaks, faulty updates, and cybersecurity attacks are endemic right now, but what about a data exposure lasting over three years? Since 2021, FlightAware's customer personal data has been available for anyone to access since 2021 because of a "configuration error," and was only discovered a few weeks ago. Not only is it widely acceptable for proprietary software companies to bar us from studying whether software is actually respecting our data, it seems that we can't trust them to discover problems in a reasonable time frame, either. If you or anyone you know has an account with FlightAware, it might be time to reconsider how wise that is.
Microsoft’s latest security update has ruined dual-boot Windows and Linux PCs
From August 21 by Tom Warren
Microsoft is in the news this month for interfering with GNU/Linux systems via their latest security update that is now blocking GNU/Linux installs from booting properly on dual-boot devices. Reportedly, this patch was intended to enhance Windows security by obstructing vulnerable GNU/Linux boot loaders, and was not supposed to be applied to dual-boot systems. We now know that this was an inaccurate assumption by Microsoft that has impacted GNU/Linux dual-boot users worldwide, and Microsoft seems to have made zero plans to remedy the issues caused by their update. If you were affected by this update (and need help getting around these issues) or simply want to know more about how it has messed with dual-boot Windows and GNU/Linux devices, take a look at the Verge article below.
Court to California: Try a privacy law, not online censorship
From August 19 by Adam Schwartz, Mario Trujillo, and Aaron Mackey
Free speech and privacy won a victory last month after a federal appellate court last week prevented enforcement of the 2022 California Age-Appropriate Design Code Act (CAADCA) based on the finding that parts of it likely violate the First Amendment, and that other parts require further review by the lower court. The CAADCA requires a majority of businesses to use invasive age-detection technology and/or only publish content deemed "age-appropriate," which not only forces users to provide an excessive amount of personal data, but also burdens online speech (both adults and minors), likely including access to news about current events and community resources for mental health help and abuse. At least for now, the right for internet users of all ages to access and disseminate lawful speech online is protected in California.
Critics of China’s proposed National Internet ID System hit with online bans, censorship, harassment
From August 9 by Cindy Carter
A few weeks ago, the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China published a draft law proposing a "voluntary" national Internet ID program and opened it up for public comment. Since then, there has been significant public discussion about the proposed draft law as well as censorship of this discussion, ranging from blocking related search terms to disabling comment sections on verified posts. This draft law, should it pass (which seems likely right now) will almost certainly chill free speech (among other negative effects), and could set a precedent for other countries.
Breaking up Google would offer a chance to remodel the web
From August 6 by Natasha Lomas (TechCrunch) and August 14 (The Guardian)
A US district court found Google guilty of operating an illegal monopoly earlier this month. While it is encouraging to see Google confronted with their blatant abuse of power over computer users, we should remain vigilant about any "remedies" that they offer. It's still too early to say whether any "solutions" that will be coming out of this ruling will be a win or loss for user freedom, especially knowing that Google doesn't prioritize user freedom or privacy.
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat, and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client. Everyone's welcome!
LibrePlanet featured resource: LibrePlanet Artists
Every month on the LibrePlanet wiki, we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting LibrePlanet Artists, which is a network of graphic designers, photographers, illustrators, videographers, animators, and audio engineers committed to creating free artwork only using free software. They help to create educational materials and other media for LibrePlanet teams, as well as to advocate for free software generally.
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from https://ftp.gnu.org/gnu/. Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at https://www.gnu.org/prep/ftp.html, or you may use https://ftpmirror.gnu.org/ to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
October 27-29, 2024, Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC, ATO
November 8-9, 2024, Online and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, SeaGL
Thank GNUs!
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
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Do you read and write Portuguese and English? The FSF is looking for translators for the Free Software Supporter. Please send an email to campaigns@fsf.org with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications.
