How Do I Prepare My Phone for a Protest? (Updated 2024) – The Markup
themarkup.org
Simple steps to take before hitting the streets

Shared here for public benefit.

Before going to a protest, demonstrators or observers should note that their cellphones may subject them to surveillance tactics by law enforcement. If your cellphone is on and unsecured, your location can be tracked and your unencrypted communications, such as SMS, may be intercepted. Additionally, police may retrieve your messages and the content of your phone if they take custody of your phone, or later by warrant or subpoena.

  • BigDanishGuy@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    3·
    12 hours ago

    This. You’ve got to ask yourself, what your goal when interacting with law enforcement is. It it your goal to stand up for every right? Or do you want to get away for the interaction as easy as possible?

    Let me give you an example of what I mean. I Denmark police can stop and ID you without a cause. You don’t have to provide an ID, but you have to state your name, address, and birthday. If you don’t, then you’ll be arrested. Our SSNs consists of birthday and a checksum. You’re not required to state your SSN checksum, but if you do state it, the police will have to pay you if the stop is longer than 10min.

    So giving the police a little more than they’re entitled to, can get you out of the interaction a lot easier.

    Of course you can stand up for your rights, and if you want to fight, then do it. But it will make your day harder.