ABSTRACT
As global populations retreated from offline social interactions both the use of data and shedding of personal data online have increased exponentially. Data that stands apart from us as abstract Covid-19 statistics, and data that must speak us, perhaps even betrays us when it reveals behaviour and movement that run contrary to government guidance. Large numbers or complex mathematical models are rarely user friendly, hence the reason data visualisation has become popular and effective ways of showing general populations (who care to look) the impact of the virus globally. Compensation or remuneration for data work may appear equitable responses to the exploitation and abuses of platform capitalism in recent years, therefore, but it cannot and should not be a long-term option. In terms of the datus quo, the way data labour presently looks is a boon for capitalism, and as a response to economic fall-back because of Covid-19, capitalism will want to preserve that position.
