Use secure communications
If you can, don't send regular texts. Use an encrypted app.
This morning, in an essay called Art as Civil Defense, photographer Bill Crandall shares a "faux-brochure." Suggestion #16 is "It's not too soon to start using secure communications." The brochure may be fake, but the suggestion is useful.
On which point, I pass along a couple ideas.
Idea #1: Encrypt your text messages
Several days ago, U.S. officials said there's an ongoing hacking operation. They recommend stopping the use of regular text messages and pivoting to encrypted communications. NBC explained:
For everyday consumers, the simplest way to send encrypted messages or make encrypted calls is to use communications apps like Signal or WhatsApp that have implemented end-to-end encryption between other Signal and WhatsApp users.
In general, your messages may be encrypted as long as you're messaging someone who's using the same app on their end. Messages tend to be unencrypted when they're sent and read through different apps.
Idea #2: Choose your device and internet connection carefully
Investigative journalist Joseph Cox wrote last month for 404 Media: "I haven’t owned a cellphone since around 2017." Instead, wearing "a small bag or a jacket with pockets," he carries an iPad Mini to send emails or encrypted text messages only over WiFi.
Large companies gather our data to sell it, hackers routinely steal it, and he's opting out.
You are powerful. Do what you can right now.
"We all have different superpowers and all will be needed," Crandall says. Don't wait: "Anything you can do will have more impact now than it will later."
