Protesting in the Surveillance Age: Your Privacy Guide

As protests surge, understanding how to protect your digital footprint is crucial. Law enforcement increasingly utilizes advanced tools to monitor movements and communications. Here’s a guide to safeguard your privacy while exercising your right to protest.

Understanding the Surveillance Landscape

Authorities can gather data from your phone if detained, and track identifying information through wireless interception, license plate readers, and facial recognition. It’s essential to be aware of these risks.

Evan Greer, Deputy Director at Fight for the Future, emphasizes the increasing weaponization of government surveillance. However, simple precautions can significantly complicate efforts to intercept communications or access personal data.

Protecting Your Phone: A Crucial First Step

Decide whether to bring your phone. Smartphones broadcast identifying information, and police may use “stingray” devices to intercept data. Harlo Holmes of the Freedom of the Press Foundation advises leaving your primary phone at home.

• Minimize Use: Keep your phone off as much as possible.
• Faraday Bag: Use a Faraday bag to block all radio communications.
• Secondary Phone: Consider a less sensitive secondary phone without personal accounts.
• Encryption: Use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps like Signal with disappearing messages.
• Strong Passcode: Use a long, strong passcode instead of biometric unlocking.
• Disable Biometrics: Turn off fingerprint or facial recognition before protesting.

Masking Your Face: Thwarting Facial Recognition

Facial recognition is a powerful identification tool. Wear a face mask and sunglasses to hinder identification. Full-face masks or even cosplay masks offer added protection.

Avoid wearing distinctive clothing or logos that make you easily recognizable.

Driving to a Protest: License Plate Readers

Be aware that automatic license plate readers can track vehicle movements. These sensors can also detect words on bumper stickers and signs.

The Online Realm: Social Media and Your Digital Footprint

Understand how social media posts can be collected and used. Even mentioning attendance at a protest puts information out there. Photos and videos can expand law enforcement’s view of attendees.

• Metadata Awareness: Files uploaded to social media may contain timestamps and location data.
• Permission: Get permission before photographing or videotaping fellow protesters.
• Livestreaming Caution: Think carefully before livestreaming to ensure everyone is comfortable being included.

Weighing Risks and Benefits

Danacea Vo, founder of Cyberlixir, advises assessing the benefits of privacy versus documenting events. While chronicling reality is important, protecting personal information is crucial.

Remember, protesting now carries higher risks. Stay vigilant and understand your tolerance for potential consequences.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Intimidated

Governments use surveillance to discourage dissent. Don’t let fear prevent you from exercising your rights. Thoughtful privacy protections can empower you to protest safely.

Stay informed, stay safe, and protect your rights.