As people take to the streets to exercise their right to free speech and assembly, it's essential to remember that their digital footprint can be a liability. With the rise of surveillance technology and data collection, protesters must be vigilant in protecting their privacy and security. In this article, we'll provide expert-recommended tips on how to secure your phone, data, and identity during protests.

In today's digital age, our phones carry a vast amount of personal information, making them a treasure trove for authorities and malicious actors. From location data to social media activity, a single misstep can put protesters at risk of arrest, surveillance, or even identity theft. To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to take proactive measures to secure your device and online presence.

First and foremost, consider leaving your phone at home or using a burner phone instead. This may seem drastic, but it's a simple way to avoid carrying sensitive information to a protest. If you must bring your phone, back up your device, remove personally identifiable information, and consider wiping it clean before attending a demonstration. Additionally, use a password or PIN instead of biometric authentication methods, which can be legally compelled.

Encryption is another vital step in protecting your data. Enable encryption on your device to prevent authorities from accessing your information in case of confiscation. Furthermore, turn on airplane mode or disable cellular data, Wi-Fi, and location services to minimize your digital footprint. You can also use guided access or app pinning features to restrict access to specific apps and information.

When it comes to communication, opt for secure, end-to-end encrypted messaging apps like Signal, which doesn't store message metadata. For browsing, consider using a VPN to hide your activity and protect your identity. Finally, be mindful of your social media presence, creating separate accounts for protest-related activities and enabling two-factor authentication to safeguard your online identity.

In the event of device confiscation, remember that your Fifth Amendment rights protect you from being forced to unlock your phone with a fingerprint or face image. However, if you're arrested, it's essential to change your passwords and disconnect your accounts from the confiscated device as soon as possible.

In conclusion, protecting your digital security during protests requires a combination of common sense, technical know-how, and proactive measures. By following these expert-recommended tips, you can minimize your risk of surveillance, data collection, and identity theft, ensuring that your right to free speech and assembly remains uncompromised.