Smartphone checklist: Civil society engagement

Journalists, NGOs and other civil society groups help to create a democratic public sphere, make grievances visible and control power. This is precisely why they are targeted by states and corporations that have no interest in transparency. Smartphones are often central tools for research, organization and communication and at the same time an easy target for surveillance, data leaks and intimidation.

Independence from corporations and government agencies is a basic prerequisite for credible, critical public spheres. Those who rely on their infrastructure, platforms or advertising money are easier to control or attack. The focus here is on encryption, anonymization, secure communication and the use of independent technologies and services so as not to put themselves, those affected and sources at risk.