How Do I Prepare My Phone for a Protest? (Updated 2024) – The Markup
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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.

  • TaterTurnipTulip@lemmy.worldEnglish
    20·
    12 hours ago

    Your car’s GPS is also tracking your movements. If you have a newer car then your phone is only part of the problem.

    • twice_hatch@midwest.socialEnglish
      9·
      8 hours ago

      To be specific, it’s not the GPS receiver, it’s the fact that the car may be communicating via cell network or satellite, right?

      • TaterTurnipTulip@lemmy.worldEnglish
        4·
        6 hours ago

        Correct. Yeah, if you have a newer car with GPS, it will likely also have built in communications to the car company.

        There are benefits to older, “dumber” cars. Besides enjoying knobs and buttons 😁

      • dhork@lemmy.world
        English
        2·
        7 hours ago

        Right, but most modern cars have that communication built in, because they use it to update firmware remotely. You can’t turn it off even if you wanted to. Many car companies justify it by saying it is needed to give your location to emergency services if you use their alert button.

        • teuto@lemmy.teuto.icuEnglish
          3·
          6 hours ago

          Idk about other brands but with Mazda you can call and get them to deactivate your car’s sim. IIRC in Subarus you can just physically unplug the communication unit.