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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. 

Consent Culture

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The concept of “consent culture” emerged from the sex positive movement of the 1980s and 90s. It was a response to the concept of “rape culture”, a term that had been coined to describe the experience that many people—especially women, queer and trans people—have of sexual violence and harassment.
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Types of Mobile Service Harm Reduction Provision

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Mobile harm reduction services come in many forms—each shaped by local needs, available resources, and the creativity of the people providing care. From backpack outreach to vans, bikes, and home delivery, these models offer flexibility, build trust, and reach people who may never visit a fixed site. This section explores the unique strengths and limitations of different mobile approaches
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