Attending large events always comes with risks to your digital security. Law enforcement agencies routinely monitor political rallies, exploiting legal loopholes and using tools like IMSI catchers (fake cell towers) to intercept large amounts of communication data. You can mitigate these risks by taking a few precautionary steps before the event.

Minimize Tracking

• Use Airplane Mode: Manually disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth unless necessary.
• Disable Location Services: Turn off GPS tracking in your device settings.
• Use a Burner Phone: Consider using a prepaid phone that isn’t linked to your identity.

Secure Communications

• Use Encrypted Messaging Apps: Signal is a good option for end-to-end encrypted communication.
• Avoid Regular Calls and Texts: These can be intercepted. Stick to encrypted messaging.
• Use a VPN: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and helps to mask identifying information.

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VPNs don’t protect against local surveillance tools like fake towers—they mainly protect against internet-level interception.

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Limit Data Exposure

• Pre-load maps and other important info - By having a copy of important information and maps available offline, you can help reduce exposure to apps that constantly send data.
• Turn Off Biometric Unlocking: Use a strong PIN instead of fingerprint or face unlock.
• Enable Auto-Lock: Set your phone to lock quickly when not in use.
• Delete Sensitive Data: Remove protest-related messages, photos, and browsing history before attending.

Prevent Device Interception

• Avoid Unknown Networks: Do not connect to public Wi-Fi, which may be monitored.
• Update Your Software: Keep your phone updated to patch security vulnerabilities.

Plan for Emergencies

• Write Down Important Numbers: In case your phone is confiscated or disabled.