- Put a security code on your devices in addition to the SIM code and engage the auto-locking feature.
- Add an HTTPS enforcer to your browser, such as HTTPS Finder or HTTPS Everywhere, to safeguard your browsing.
- Disable network connections and switch off bridging connections. Do not broadcast the Bluetooth device name and disable automated peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connections.
- Avoid connecting personal devices to other computers. And be very cautious of free charging points.
- Watch for unauthorised billing, unusual text messages, rapidly-depleting battery and unexpected warmth of the device.
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- IFJ/EFJ Digital Safety Tips for Journalists Covering the Baku 2015 European Games
IFJ/EFJ Digital Safety Tips for Journalists Covering the Baku 2015 European Games
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) have warned that journalists covering the Baku 2015 European Games may be subject to surveillance by the Azeri security services if they trespass the limits and boundaries fixed by their official accreditation to cover other issues than the Baku 2015 European Games. Alan Pearce, a journalist and author specialising in cyber-security and counter-surveillance, provides some top tips and spy-proof measures on how to keep your activities to yourself. BEFORE YOU GO
Clear out all your devices, removing personal details and contacts, and replace the SD card in your phone. Store anything sensitive on a spare card or USB drive.
Install open-source anti-spyware and anti-malware on all devices. For Android users, AVG Mobilation is a free app that protects against viruses, malware and spyware. It also identifies unsecure device settings; ensures contacts, bookmarks and text messages are secure; checks media files for malicious software and security threats; guards against phishing; and offers anti-theft protection. Lookout protects iOS and Android devices from unsecure Wi-Fi networks, malicious apps, fraudulent links, etc.
ONCE THERE
As soon as you arrive at the airport, they may want to take your digital devices away for inspection. Generally, you should never let your mobile devices out of your sight and this includes leaving them unattended in hotel rooms. It is very easy to scan the memory or plant malware inside.
With laptops and tablets, place a sticker over any opening parts so you can see if the device has been tampered with. Better still, apply a coating of glitter nail polish and then take a photo of it with your smartphone. The glitter in the polish provides a unique pattern that cannot be replicated and which can later be compared to the photo. Additionally, be sure to thoroughly run an anti-spyware programme on the device as soon as possible after recovery.
As soon as they have your details, they will begin tracking you around the venue. To avoid this, turn off Geotagging and GPS location and switch on Airplane Mode. This will make their job harder. If you are meeting anybody, and would rather they didn’t know, remove the battery from your phone because they can still listen in even when it’s turned off. If you have an iPhone and can’t take the battery out, leave it behind – but not anywhere they can find it.
If they are handing out free sim cards, be sure to bring along an older, non-smart phone and install the card in that. Use this phone to receive updates and calls from the Games’ organisers.
And be careful of the messages you receive on your regular smartphone. Never open attachments or click on links if you are suspicious. To avoid infection via email, disable HTML in your email programme via the Settings tab. Be aware of social media posts and emails with enticing links, many of which are often shortened so you don’t know where you are heading. Short URLs can be enlarged at LongURL.org.
When connecting to the 3G network or Wi-Fi, employ a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to prevent tracking and to mask your activities from eavesdroppers. Hotspot Shield is a good free, option which also allows you to view banned content and access Twitter and Facebook mobile if their services are blocked locally. A popular and fast paid-for option is VrprVPN.