Be safe : keep your identity safe at a protest, conceal your face with a mask or hat and sunglasses, dress in nondescript clothing, and avoid sharing photos or videos of yourself or others online. On your phone, enable encryption and a passcode, turn off biometrics like facial and fingerprint ID, and consider putting it in airplane mode to prevent tracking. Have a safety plan, which can include knowing exit routes and having contact information for a lawyer. Set up a strong passcode, disable facial and fingerprint recognition, and enable full-disk encryption. Ensure your phone is fully charged and consider bringing a portable charger. Use encrypted messaging apps like Signal and turn off location services. Conceal your identity: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and a face mask to obscure your features, as face recognition is a major surveillance tool. Dress to blend in: Wear nondescript, layered, and long-sleeved clothing in monochrome colors. Cover any identifying tattoos, and consider wearing gloves. Protect your digital footprint: Put your phone on airplane mode to prevent tracking. Do not take pictures or videos of other attendees' faces, and be mindful that banners or signs you hold can identify you. Use secure communication: If you need to use your phone, use secure messaging apps and be aware of who you are connecting with online. After the protest Disinfect your belongings: Wash your hands and clothing, and disinfect your phone, keys, and anything else Be mindful of social media: Avoid posting photos or videos of yourself or other protesters on social media. Secure your phone again: If you took any pictures or videos, it's a good idea to wipe them or edit them to remove identifying information before posting.Protesting is a constitutionally protected activity rooted in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly. This means you have the right to express your views, gather with others, and petition the government, though these rights are not absolute and can be subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions, such as the need for permits for large events that block traffic. For a protest on October 18, 2025, demonstrators may need to protect themselves from a variety of risks, including potential confrontations with police and counter-protesters, as well as digital surveillance. Several major "No Kings" protests are scheduled across the United States for this date, with organizers emphasizing peaceful and nonviolent action. Key risks protesters face Police misconduct and excessive force: Despite the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, protesters frequently encounter police misconduct and violence, particularly during demonstrations organized by marginalized groups. Law enforcement has been known to use "less-lethal" weapons, such as tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, and sound cannons (LRADs), to disperse crowds. These can cause serious injury and disorientation. Arrests can occur even during peaceful events. Protesters who are detained face the risk of injuries from restraints and the potential for felony charges. Hostile counter-protesters: Demonstrators may face aggressive or armed counter-protesters looking to escalate tensions or incite violence. This risk is compounded by the fact that some counter-protesters may be armed. Digital surveillance: Law enforcement agencies and other entities use various surveillance methods, including tracking cell phone signals, facial recognition technology, and social media monitoring, to identify and track protesters. Information collected can be used for harassment, doxxing, or prosecution. Health and environmental risks: Large crowds can present their own health hazards, from the spread of infectious disease to medical emergencies like heatstroke or falls. Protesters must also prepare for environmental factors like heat and sun exposure. Safety precautions for protesters Protect personal information: Use privacy-focused communication apps like Signal. Encrypt your phone, disable biometric unlocking, and use a strong password. Consider leaving your personal phone at home and bringing a secondary device. Document everything: If safe to do so, film police actions and document any misconduct. If posting online, blur or obscure identifying features of other protesters to protect their privacy. Wear protective gear: Wear clothing that covers your skin to protect against sun and chemical irritants. Shatter-resistant goggles or glasses can protect your eyes from projectiles and chemical agents. Consider a hat or face covering to help conceal your identity from facial recognition technology. Bring essential supplies: Pack a small bag with water, high-protein snacks, and any necessary medications. A first-aid kit, extra masks, cash, and a portable charger are also recommended. Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your First Amendment rights and what to do if you are detained. For instance, you have the right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer. Stay aware of your surroundings: Be mindful of suspicious behavior and avoid potential hazards like abandoned items or unsafe parts of the crowd. Having a pre-planned exit strategy and a designated rally point is crucial for group safety. Beloud