Freedom House: Internet Continues to Become Less Free

surveillance – n. the act of carefully watching someone or something especially in order to prevent or detect a crime

encrypt – v. to electronically change (information) from one form to another especially to hide its meaning

online – adj. done over the Internet

the likes of – expression a similar kind

sphere – n. an area of influence or activity

maximum – adj. the highest number or amount that is possible or allowed

implement – v. to begin to do or use (something, such as a plan); to make (something) active or effective

advocate – v. to support or argue for (a cause, policy, etc.)

rumor – n. information or a story that is passed from person to person but has not been proven to be true

virtual private network – n. a technology that permits internet users in some countries to gain access to websites that are blocked by their government