When disposing of a burner phone, it is crucial to do so responsibly. “At the end of its useful life, take necessary precautions to eliminate data, remove SIM and memory cards, and ensure you do not leave behind a security vulnerability,” advises Al-Maskati from Access Now.
Considering an Alternative Phone
In some scenarios, using a burner phone might not be the most suitable or practical option. Alternatives, often referred to as altphones, can help segment your digital presence more effectively.
“The term ‘burner phone’ can be quite ambiguous,” explains Matt Mitchell, CEO of Safety Sync Group. “I like to categorize tactics based on specific objectives, starting from understanding why standard phones may compromise privacy and gradually adjusting to desired levels of privacy, which can range from basic safety to utilizing highly secure operating systems or completely locked-down devices.”
For many users, an altphone may simply be a standard smartphone that supports various communication channels and privacy tools, including encrypted messaging apps like Signal, VPN services, and online tracker blockers. This setup enables users to adjust their privacy settings, making certain online activities—such as browsing, software usage, and communication—more private than what is typically achievable on conventional devices.
“What exactly are you aiming to protect? If you just want to hide your phone number from someone, there are simpler methods than using a heavily anonymized device,” states the ACLU’s Williams. “However, for those looking to operate completely off-grid, additional precautions are necessary.”
An altphone could be a smartphone used specifically for attending rallies or demonstrations, or it might be an older model repurposed for travel-related activities. The level of privacy you choose depends on your specific usage context.
“Repurposed devices can serve effectively over a long period,” says Vo from Cyberlixir. “Keep in mind, however, that reused phones often still carry identifiable traces, even after a factory reset. Components such as sales receipts or CCTV footage may link the device back to you. This makes them useful for segregating different activities, such as separating work and personal communications or designating a separate phone for international trips.” Retained identifiers, like IMEI numbers, persist even after factory resets.
Utilizing a smartphone as a secondary device comes with its own set of challenges. “Mainstream smartphones often fall short in safeguarding privacy and securing communications,” notes Al-Maskati from Access Now. “If individuals decide to repurpose a smartphone as a burner, it is advisable to reset it to factory settings, refrain from logging into real accounts (like AppleID or Google), avoid syncing data, and disable unnecessary location services and other features.”
Limit the use of your altphone strictly to its intended purpose; for example, if it is meant for protests, it should not double as a device for personal texts or online purchases. Similar to a traditional burner phone, keeping it separate from other personal devices is essential. Avoid using the same Wi-Fi networks or turning on your altphone in tandem with your routine devices; ideally, store it in a Faraday bag when not in use. Only share the altphone number with trusted contacts.
In summary, whether using a burner phone or an altphone, it is vital to recognize that while these devices can enhance privacy, they are not foolproof. If absolute discretion is required, consider forgoing smartphones entirely in sensitive situations.
