Field Security Guide

Guidance for device and personal security when operating in high-risk environments. Staying vigilant and using a combination of modern technology with traditional practices can significantly enhance personal and device security.

Device Security

SIM Card Management

Prefer physical SIM cards over eSIMs - Easier to remove quickly
Use local SIM cards when traveling to avoid tracking patterns
Don’t associate multiple devices - Each device should have its own identity
Keep devices isolated - Never use personal and operational devices near each other

Faraday Bags

Faraday bags block all wireless signals, preventing tracking:

Use separate bags for each device
Always test - Try sending a message from inside the bag to verify it blocks signal
Keep devices in bags when not actively in use
Multiple layers provide better protection

Device Practices

Change devices regularly if possible
Use dedicated devices for sensitive work
Monitor for unusual behavior - battery drain, overheating, unexpected activity
Keep software updated - Security patches matter
Full-disk encryption enabled on all devices

Signal & Network Tracking

Tracking Vectors

Be aware of how you can be tracked:

Vector	Risk
Wi-Fi	Devices probe for known networks, revealing history
Bluetooth	Can be tracked even when “discoverable” is off
Cellular	IMSI catchers can intercept communications
GPS	Apps may track location even when not in use
Fitness apps	Strava, etc. can reveal patterns and locations

Mitigation

Disable Bluetooth when not actively using it
Avoid wireless earbuds in sensitive situations
Turn off Wi-Fi when not connecting to known networks
Use airplane mode when location privacy is critical
Check app permissions and revoke unnecessary access

Contact & Information Management

Secure Practices

Use Signal for all sensitive communications
Keep contacts minimal on operational devices
Use nicknames or codes instead of real names
Avoid digital storage of the most sensitive information
Paper can be safer for critical notes (and can be destroyed)

Password Management

Use a password manager (Bitwarden, KeePassXC)
Memorize critical passwords - don’t rely solely on the manager
Different passwords for different security levels
Enable MFA wherever possible

Memory Systems

Build mental maps of contacts and procedures
Develop a personal system for remembering critical information
Practice recall regularly
Have backup plans that don’t require devices

Personal Security

Behavioral Awareness

Recognize surveillance indicators - Same person appearing multiple times, unusual interest in you
Notice patterns - Vehicles that appear repeatedly, people taking photos
Trust your instincts - If something feels wrong, act on it
Be aware of cultural differences in expressions and behaviors

Counter-Surveillance

Vary your routes - Don’t establish predictable patterns
Change timing - Don’t always leave/arrive at the same times
Use reflective surfaces to check behind you without turning
Know your environment - Identify exits, safe spaces, public areas

Emergency Situations

Have plans ready for different scenarios
Know local emergency numbers
Identify safe havens (embassies, hospitals, police stations - depending on context)
Keep emergency contacts memorized

Travel Security

Before Traveling

At Borders

Know your rights at border crossings
Expect device searches - Consider travel devices with minimal data
Don’t lie - But you don’t have to volunteer information
Know what’s on your devices - Be prepared for questions

In the Field

Maintain heightened awareness
Be cautious with new contacts
Recognize minders or followers
Know when to abort - Safety over mission

When Followed or Watched

Recognizing Surveillance

Signs you may be under surveillance:

Same individuals appearing in different locations
Vehicles that seem to follow your movements
People who seem unusually interested in your activities
Feeling of being watched (trust this instinct)

Response Options

Low-key methods:

Change your route
Enter a public, crowded space
Stop and window shop (use reflection to observe)
Take public transportation with multiple transfers

Direct methods (use judgment):

Directly approach and ask if they need something
Take their photo
Enter a police station or embassy

Evasion:

Use crowds to break visual contact
Enter buildings with multiple exits
Use restrooms to change appearance or exit differently

Communication Security

Secure Messaging Principles

Assume messages may be intercepted outside encrypted channels
Verify identities before sharing sensitive information
Use disappearing messages for sensitive conversations
Don’t discuss locations in messages when in sensitive areas
Have code words for emergency situations

When Devices May Be Compromised

If you suspect your device is compromised:

Don’t use it for anything sensitive
Don’t tip off that you know
Use it for disinformation if strategic
Get a clean device for actual operations
Report to trusted contacts via secure means

Self-Defense Considerations

General Principles

Awareness is the best defense - Avoid situations before they become dangerous
De-escalation first - Violence should be the last resort
Know local laws - Self-defense laws vary significantly
Consider consequences - Physical confrontation has legal and safety implications

Tool Selection

Non-lethal options are generally preferred
Practical items (flashlight, umbrella) can serve dual purposes
Weapons can escalate situations and attract attention
Training matters - Untrained use of any tool can backfire

Quick Reference

Before Going Out

If Compromised

Stay calm
Protect what you can
Get to safety
Contact trusted support
Document everything
Assess and adapt

This guide draws from field experience in high-risk environments. Always adapt practices to your specific situation and threat level.