How to Protect Your Identity at a Protest
If you wish to protest and still protect your identity, here are some tips
If you're concerned about protecting your identity while participating in a protest, it's essential to take steps to maintain privacy and stay safe. Here are some best practices to consider:
1. Wear Disguises or Conceal Your Identity
• Cover your face: Wear a mask, scarf, or bandana to cover your face. Sunglasses or hats can also
help obscure your identity.
• Avoid distinguishing features: If possible, avoid wearing clothing with identifiable logos or brands.
Choose neutral, nondescript outfits to blend in.
• Change your appearance: Consider changing your hair (e.g., wearing a wig or different hairstyle) or
makeup if you're worried about recognition.
2. Use Secure Communication
• Use encrypted messaging apps: Instead of regular text messaging or social media, use secure
communication platforms like Signal or Telegram, which offer end-to-end encryption.
• Avoid publicizing plans on social media: Do not post photos or event details on your personal
accounts. Use pseudonyms if you are setting up protest-related social media accounts.
• Use burner phones: If possible, use a separate phone or SIM card specifically for protest-related
activities to prevent linking your personal phone number.
3. Minimize Digital Footprint
• Disable location services: Turn off location tracking on your phone, apps, and photos. Don’t post
your whereabouts in real time.
• Use VPNs and anonymous browsing tools: Use a VPN to mask your IP address and Tor for
anonymous internet browsing, especially when researching or communicating online.
• Delete photos/videos immediately after the protest: If you take pictures or videos, be sure to delete
them right after the protest to avoid leaving any digital trail.
4. Be Mindful of Surveillance
• Stay away from cameras: Avoid standing in front of cameras or in locations where surveillance is
high, such as near government buildings, police stations, or major streets with CCTV cameras.
• Use signal jammers (if legal in your area): In some countries, signal jammers may be available to
block phone tracking. Make sure to research your local laws before using them.
5. Avoid Being Recognized by Others
• Participate in groups: Stay within a crowd to reduce the chances of being singled out.
• Stay anonymous to others: Keep conversations general and avoid discussing personal details with
people you don’t know well.
6. Plan an Exit Strategy
• Know how to leave without being noticed: Plan your route in advance so you can exit the protest
without attracting attention.
• Have an escape plan: If the protest becomes violent or dangerous, have a strategy in place to leave
quickly and safely, including a designated safe place to go.
7. Be Aware of Legal Risks
• Know your rights: Understand the laws regarding protests and freedom of speech in your area, as
well as your rights if you're confronted by law enforcement.
• Prepare for the worst: If you are arrested or detained, consider how you’ll handle the situation. Don’t
carry anything that could link you to a specific location or person, such as personal identification or
electronics with sensitive data.• Contact a lawyer: Have legal support or advice in place, especially if you're part of a high-risk protest.
Some organizations provide legal aid specifically for protesters.
8. Use Discretion When Talking About the Protest
• Don't discuss the protest in unsafe places: Avoid discussing the event in public spaces, over
unsecured communication channels, or in places where others might be listening.
• Consider using pseudonyms: When communicating with organizers or participants, using
pseudonyms or anonymous email addresses can help protect your identity.
By taking these precautions, you can reduce the chances of your identity being exposed while still participating
in protests and advocating for your cause.