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mystraline

How to create an account on #WSocial in 13 easy steps:

1. choose a username

2. choose a password

3. choose your interests

4. download the #WIdentity app to your phone (two options: Apple AppStore or Google Play Store)

5. scan a QR code

6. create a PIN code

optional: enable biometrics; re-enter PIN

7. choose whether you simply want to verify that you're human or if you also want to verify your name

8. choose the verification method (automatic photo review, request a manual review or scan your passport chip)

9. scan your passport's picture page

10. scan your passport's chip

11. take a selfie

12. scan a QR code to link the W Identity to your W Social account

13. enter your PIN code

https://aseachange.com/@elena/statuses/01KVD55YBYVM3B46ACQTE...

Or.... How about not? Seriously, join Mastodon!

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> Seriously, join Mastodon!

not bad but bluesky/eurosky is just better. activitypub based networks treat instances as sovereign with full control over users data. they can permanently delete your posts and the posts you see depend on who the admin wants to federate with. the only way to be independent is run your own server so non technical users get stuck under reddit style moderation.

at protocol is global by default and puts you in control with full account portability. and it looks like its easier to expand it to new use cases like tangled (github alternative) or rocksky (social listening like last fm).

On the other hand, the currently overwhelmingly dominant Bluesky app and infrastructure can control what users see, presenting a centralized chokepoint. It’s nice to own your data but if your social circle uses a single centralized app to view it, shrug.

> Or.... How about not? Seriously, join Mastodon!

Which decentralised instance?

> Which decentralised instance?

any of them

all of them

> any of them

> all of them

That is the problem.

The paradox of choice stiffles adoption for Mastodon for the regular user and pushes them away.

Choosing the main instance goes against the whole point of Mastodon for federation.

There was even a time Mastodon wanted to promote other federated instances by closing off the main instance, it failed.

You might as well use Bluesky or Threads and be done with it.

It's true, same goes for e-mail host, just so many options to choose from! /s

I never understood that point too. It shows quite some cognitive decline in the users mind. Searching for 20 minutes is now too much even if your privacy depends on it. I suspect also this was a well planted thinking point by the social media conglomerates.

I mean of course I have to choose an instance! That’s called a market. People have been lobotomized to prioritize monopolies.

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