this post was submitted on 26 Aug 2023
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Privacy

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For example using privacy screen protectors or phone cases with a manual shutter over the camera.

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[–] eager_eagle@lemmy.world 19 points 1 year ago (3 children)
  • font size on the phone is small, both for preference and for a bit more privacy.
  • protect most apps with fingerprint app lock, in case the phone is stolen unlocked or someone else tries to open another app.
  • webcam covers. I don't use phone camera covers, but android has privacy indicators that work as "snitches" when apps access the camera or mic. I have something similar for my other computers, at least for the camera.
  • I would like a hardware toggle for camera and mic on my next laptop, but that narrows down the laptop space too much.
[–] ElGringoLoco@lemmy.donmcgin.com 11 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I'm sure you're already aware, but the framework laptop includes toggles for mic and camera. I'm a big fan of the laptops in general because of the upgradability and ease of repair.

[–] eager_eagle@lemmy.world 5 points 1 year ago

right, I do have framework in my list of candidates for next laptop

[–] brimnac@lemmy.world 8 points 1 year ago (1 children)

If i recall correctly, law enforcement can use biometric information to unlock phones without your consent or a warrant.

PIN codes still by consent or warrant only.

[–] eager_eagle@lemmy.world 3 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (1 children)

I understand the phone owner is not covered by the fifth amendment to prevent authorities from unlocking a device using biometrics, but authorities still need a warrant or probable cause as it falls into search of private property.

[–] brimnac@lemmy.world 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (1 children)

You sure that’s been ruled on? Not arguing, only feel like I’ve seen a lot more instances of police violating that than hearing they couldn’t do it.

Edit: my apologies, you’re right. I was able to check into it and see recent rulings. Warrant levels may vary, but they need a warrant.

[–] eager_eagle@lemmy.world 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (1 children)

Despite username similarities, I'm not Legal Eagle, nor do I have a legal background. Though I would be very much surprised if authorities in the US could search anybody's phone at will without consent, warrant, or reasonable suspicion.

[–] DrWeevilJammer@lemmy.ml 2 points 1 year ago

This very much depends on the state. Some state courts (California) have ruled that one can refuse a request to unlock a phone via biometrics, while others (Minnesota) have ruled that you do not have the right to refuse.

My understanding is that a passcode or PIN can be considered "testimony", because you have to communicate this information, and testimony can't be forced.

But biometrics aren't always considered to be testimony, because it's something you ARE.

[–] otter@lemmy.ca 4 points 1 year ago (1 children)

How solid is the android privacy indicator, in terms of if it can be tricked to not appear when the camera is running

[–] eager_eagle@lemmy.world 3 points 1 year ago

unless there's a way for non-root apps to bypass the Android API to access these sensors, I'd say it's pretty solid.