What activists should know about digital communications security

Everyone's situation is different! But there are common threads and we can learn from each other.

Basic Themes

Security isn't just one thing. You can think about your risks more clearly if you understand what kinds of concerns you have. Four major security themes that are worth thinking over are:

Privacy

Who can see my communications? Is it only the people I expect? What does privacy mean when sending the same message to many people? Who can breach the privacy?

Authenticity

When I receive messages, how do i know who they're from? Are they really from that person? When I communicate messages where my identity is important and relevant, how can the people I'm communicating with know that my messages are really from me?

Anonymity

When I want to communicate without divulging my identity (whistleblowing, etc), how can I be sure that my identity is protected?

Reliability/Access

Is the communications medium i'm using something I can rely on? Who controls the medium? Can it be shut down or interrupted? Will it be there when I need it urgently?

Jumping off points

• ​Choose an email provider that provides StartTLS and encourage others to do so as well
• ​Indymedia UK's suggestions on web browsing security
• ​Is the machine you are using secure? Do you have a Trusted Physical Console?