Attending a Protest

Last Reviewed: February 1, 2025

Protests can be powerful and essential for social change, but it’s important to be prepared—both digitally and physically. This guide helps you protect your privacy, security, and safety before, during, and after the protest. Note: These tips are for informational purposes and are not legal advice.

Before the Protest: Preparation is Key

Gather Protest Materials

• Create Informative Materials: Bring posters, flyers, and pamphlets to share your message. Include contact info for the group you're affiliated with, so newcomers can connect.
• Craft a Memorable Slogan: A catchy slogan can help spread the word.
• Safety Reminder: Weapons (e.g., knives, pepper spray, stun guns) have no place in a protest.

Wear Protective Clothing

• Dress for Comfort and Safety: Wear comfortable clothes and footwear, as you'll likely be on your feet for hours.
• Layer Up: If it's cold, layers provide warmth and extra padding.
• Protective Eyewear: For front-line protestors, protective glasses are essential to guard against chemicals like tear gas or pepper spray. Avoid contacts—glasses are better in these situations.

What to Bring (and Not Bring)

Essentials to Pack

• Bag or Backpack: A small, durable bag leaves your hands free and helps keep your essentials safe.
• Water: Stay hydrated, especially during long marches. It’s also helpful for washing eyes affected by chemicals.
• Face Mask/Bandana: Protect yourself from both COVID-19 and surveillance. Have an extra mask if possible.
• Hat/Sunglasses: Block the sun and conceal your face from cameras.
• Snacks: Pack lightweight, energy-boosting food like jerky, energy bars, or nuts.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear closed-toe, sturdy shoes.
• Cash: Use cash instead of cards to avoid tracking. Keep it separate in your bag and on your person.
• Power Bank: Make sure your phone stays charged.

Other Helpful Items

• Hand Sanitizer & Extra Face Masks: Hygiene matters, especially in crowded settings.
• Cooling Towel, Blister Protection, First Aid Kit: Extra supplies for comfort and health.
• Emergency Phone Numbers & Medications: Have essential contacts and meds handy.

Phone Usage: Stay Secure

Consider Leaving Your Phone Behind

• Use a Camera Instead: If you can, leave your phone at home and use a dedicated camera for photos. This reduces tracking risks.
• Disposable Phones: If you must bring a phone, a disposable one is a better option for privacy.

Securing Your Device

• Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your phone is locked with a tough password, not easily guessable info.
• Enable Encryption: Turn on encryption to protect your data.
• Disable Biometric Unlocks: Avoid fingerprint or face recognition—authorities may try to bypass these.

Limit Connectivity

• Disable Wi-Fi & Bluetooth: Cut off connectivity to prevent tracking. Airplane Mode is a good option.
• Use Prepaid Phones: For extra privacy, opt for a prepaid phone during the protest.

Backup Data & Scrub Metadata

• Backup Regularly: Protect your data with encrypted backups, whether on the cloud or locally.
• Scrub Metadata: Before sharing photos or videos, remove metadata to keep your location and device info private.

Travel to the Protest: Minimize Surveillance

Walk or Use Public Transit

• Walking/Biking: If possible, these options are great for avoiding surveillance and reducing your carbon footprint.
• Public Transport: If you must take transit, pay with cash to avoid being tracked.

Avoiding Surveillance

• Stay Aware of Cameras: Be mindful of areas with heavy surveillance, like intersections with security cameras.
• Driving Considerations: If driving is necessary, be cautious of Automated License Plate Reader systems (ALPRs), which track vehicles.

During the Protest: Stay Safe and Document Responsibly

Capturing Moments Securely

• Take Photos without Unlocking Your Phone: On many devices, you can capture photos directly from the lock screen (e.g., double-press the power button on Android).
• Respect Others' Privacy: Blur or block out faces in photos to protect people from potential harm.
• Remove Metadata: Before posting photos or videos, scrub any metadata that could compromise your privacy.

Staying Safe in the Crowd

• Don’t Run: Running can escalate tension. Move calmly if you need to leave the area.
• Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your surroundings. If you get separated, have a plan to meet up with trusted friends.
• Exit Strategy: Have a route planned in advance to avoid surveillance and possible confrontations.

Emergency Situations

• Exposure to Tear Gas:
  • Stay calm, move away from the cloud, and flush your eyes with water.
  • Avoid milk—it’s less effective and can cause infections.
• Exposure to Pepper Spray: Flush with water or a baking soda solution and change clothes immediately.
• Dealing with Violent Police: Stay silent and remain calm. Try to discreetly film the encounter and document details like badge numbers.

If You’re Arrested:

• Remain silent and ask for a lawyer.
• Write down the officer's badge number, if possible.
• Don’t resist arrest—stay calm and follow procedures.

Witnessing Police Brutality:

• Film incidents without physically intervening.
• Your footage may help deter further violence.