I think dead internet theory refers to contents on the internet not made by people but manufactured by AI instead.
For privacy and security, don’t settle for all or nothing mentality because something is always better than nothing. Total protection is hard nonetheless some protection is better than no protection.
ADS AND TRACKERS:
Ad blockers / content blockers such as browser extension (eg Adguard, Ghostery, uBlock Origin) and ad blocking DNS (eg AdGuard, NextDNS).
Turning off JavaScript (JS) and blocking cookies can also help but some websites may not look or function well.
Other extras include anti fingerprinting extension (blocking or randomizing), user agent switching and IP switching (reset router, iCloud private relay or VPN)
PAYWALL, CLICKBAIT AND DARK PATTERNS:
Using methods above for blocking ads and trackers (eg ad blocker, turn off JS, block cookies) can also help but this part requires common sense the most. You should just pay or avoid paywalled contents as well as clickbait and dark patterns. Look carefully at pop ups before you close or click agree. Some websites will allow you to continue reading content without paying if you can find its cleverly/maliciously hidden ‘close’ or ‘no thanks’ button. Reader mode or reading view can also help distill contents to just text without the annoyance.
For websites which limit certain number of articles per day, if you don’t want to sign up, then try changing or randomizing IP or user agent.
AI AND SEO CONTENT:
Via ad blockers, content blockers or DNS, you can select blocklists / blacklist for AI or any contents. The list is dynamic and changes over time.
Use private search engines that provide good, organic results instead of ads or SEO garbage. Most search engines rely on ads for revenue and it’s okay as long as ads are distinguishable from results.
Learn to identify good honest websites from content mills and browse only the good ones—don’t waste time on others. Certain search engines (eg Mojeek, Brave, Kagi) allow you to exclude websites you don’t like so your search will appear cleaner and more effective.
