The WIRED Guide to Protecting Yourself From Government Surveillance

In today’s digital age, government surveillance is a constant threat to our privacy and security. With the rise of technologies like facial recognition, GPS tracking, and internet monitoring, it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect yourself from potential government intrusion.

One of the first steps you can take is to use secure and encrypted communication tools like Signal or ProtonMail for your messaging and email needs. These platforms ensure that your conversations and interactions remain private and out of reach of prying eyes.

Another important aspect of protecting yourself from government surveillance is to regularly update your devices and software. By keeping your operating systems and applications up to date, you can stay ahead of potential security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by surveillance agencies.

It’s also crucial to use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts, as well as enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to your online activities and makes it more difficult for hackers or government agencies to gain unauthorized access to your data.

When browsing the internet, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to mask your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic. This can help prevent websites and surveillance agencies from tracking your online activities and collecting data on your browsing habits.

Additionally, be mindful of the permissions you grant to apps and websites on your devices. Limiting access to your location, camera, and microphone can help minimize the amount of data that is shared with third parties and potential government surveillance entities.

Overall, staying informed and proactive about your digital privacy is key to protecting yourself from government surveillance. By following these tips and best practices, you can safeguard your personal information and maintain your security in an increasingly connected and surveilled world.