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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. 

Policy Creation Hacks

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Creating effective policies in harm reduction work means grounding them in your mission, being thoughtful about their impact, and ensuring they’re both practical and inclusive. The tips below offer a starting point for organisations looking to build policies that reflect their values, meet external requirements, and genuinely support the people they serve and work with.
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Universal Precautions and Workplace Safety

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Though not all harm reduction organizations or programs are in need of universal precautions or OSHA considerations, most are. It’s important when setting up a harm reduction space to take into consideration the important and real risks of harm reduction work. This includes the potential for entry and exposure to blood-borne pathogens as well as airborne pathogens.
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