When, Where, and Why?

KDE has kicked off its end-of-year Halloween Fundraiser to address the ongoing risks posed by proprietary software. The community is calling upon supporters to contribute to the fight against restrictive tech practices, ensuring that users maintain ownership over their digital lives. This initiative is not only about fundraising but also highlighting the advantages of free and open-source software, which KDE champions.

The Threat of Proprietary Software

The KDE community warns of the dangers presented by proprietary software that can control or limit user access or data. Proprietary systems often lock users in with sneaky contracts, exorbitant update fees, and intrusive data practices. KDE offers an alternative—free open-source software that is developed and maintained by a passionate community of volunteers. The fundraiser aims to bolster these efforts, ensuring that their software remains free and available to all.

Supporting Free Software Through Donations

KDE invites everyone to participate in their Halloween fundraiser by making donations to support free software development. They rely primarily on grassroots funding, which is crucial to maintain their independence from commercial influences. By donating, supporters help sustain KDE's mission to provide software that respects user freedom and privacy.

The Nightmare of Proprietary Lock-ins

The article highlights various scenarios where users experienced setbacks due to proprietary software. From forced software updates to AI training on personal work, users recounted tales of software developers misusing their control over users' digital environments. KDE offers solutions through applications like Kdenlive and Krita, which maintain backward compatibility and give artists control over their creations.

Real Stories, Real Solutions

Personal accounts shared in the body of the article emphasize KDE's commitment to user-centric software. Whether it's providing alternatives to expensive upgrades, preventing unauthorized data collection, or enabling the use of older devices, KDE shines as a bastion of digital freedom and privacy protection.

Invitation to Share Stories

The KDE community encourages sharing of proprietary horror stories on platforms like Mastodon, Lemmy, Reddit, and their dedicated discussion forum. Users can collaborate, educate, and inform others about the freedoms that come with open-source solutions, aiming to create a more informed and empowered user base.

The ongoing fundraiser was reported on by KDE.