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Hacks for Phone and Cyber Security

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In an era of increased surveillance and risk for criminalized populations, it is increasingly essential for harm reduction organizations to think about electronic security and hygiene. Here are some tips from harm reduction leaders that are also supported by cyber civil liberties groups like the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Access Now,  and others:

  • Use unique, strong passwords for every account (6+ digits or alphanumeric)
  • Enable full disk encryption (FileVault, BitLocker, VeraCrypt)
  • Keep devices and apps updated
  • Install only trusted apps
  • Use end-to-end encrypted apps (Signal, Element/Matrix)
  • Avoid SMS, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram DMs
  • Turn on disappearing messages in Signal
  • Use a password manager (Bitwarden, KeePassXC, 1Password)
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) using an authenticator app
  • Turn off location service and/or use Airplane Mode or disable GPS/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth while in the field
  • Disable Google/Apple location history
  • Use privacy-focused apps like OsmAnd or offline maps
  • Think about using a burner phone with minimal apps and contacts
  • Remove or log out of personal accounts before actions
  • Back up your data in advance
  • Think before posting or sharing pictures, pages and/ or videos and always remove metadata before doing so
  • Do not rely on anonymity unless using anonymizing tools
  • Compartmentalize work and personal digital life

Featured Hacks

These featured hacks highlight creative, practical solutions from harm reduction leaders on the ground. From DIY tools to clever workarounds, each one reflects the ingenuity, care, and real-world experience that keeps this movement alive. 

Hacks for Non-Verbal Active Listening

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When someone is agitated or in distress, how we carry ourselves can make a huge difference. Non-verbal cues—like posture, breathing, and personal space—can either calm a situation or escalate it further. The following tips offer guidance on using body language to reduce tension, show respect, and create a safer, more grounded interaction.
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Trauma-Informed

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The term “trauma-informed” emerges from a growing understanding of the far reaching ways that trauma impacts health and well-being. Trauma is defined here, in keeping with the scientific literature, as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience(s) that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, and significantly impacts their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
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