In the final installment of our series, we pivot from the mechanics of technical surveillance and defense measures to a critical, often overlooked aspect of security: our actions and how they influence threat actor behavior. While the first two parts focused on digital defenses and understanding surveillance tactics, here we explore the nuanced ways in which personal conduct and overt security measures can inadvertently signal a target’s value.
The Counterproductive Signals of Aggressive Security Measures
Adopting overly aggressive personal security steps can paradoxically make you more conspicuous to threat actors. Portraying oneself as a ‘super hacker’ through stickers, clothing, or openly discussing advanced security measures might seem like a deterrent but can actually highlight you as a potentially valuable target. This visibility contrasts starkly with the preferred strategy of blending in, appearing mundane, and not worthy of special attention.
The Risks of Overprotection
Similarly, carrying devices stripped of all personal data or utilizing overtly secure communication tools can signal that you have something significant to protect. While tools like Signal offer robust encryption, their use—especially in environments where such measures are uncommon—can suggest a level of awareness and preparedness that marks you as an individual of interest. Sometimes, blending in with the crowd is the best way to hide; platforms like WhatsApp have similar security features and more than a billion users, so using ordinary communication methods can be a surprisingly good way to protect yourself.
Problems with Trying to Outsmart Threat Actors
Setting traps in hotel rooms or doing active counter-surveillance may seem like a good idea, but it has many dangers. Such actions can attract attention and risk being misunderstood by real threat actors who are watching these behaviors. If you are caught on camera looking for bugs or trying to escape a possible follower, that can prove to a threat actor that you are a valuable target, possibly leading to more direct and unpleasant situations that you are probably not prepared to handle.
Trying to “lose a tail” or use evasive maneuvers during travel can accidentally signal that you are involved in activities that interest threat actors. This kind of behavior not only makes you more noticeable but can also create unnecessary suspicion on colleagues or associates, spreading the potential risk beyond yourself. It is smart to be careful in conversations about travel activities, but acting normal can often be your best protection. Comments that suggest secrecy or sensitivity, even to family, can unintentionally create an image of importance that threat actors want to investigate further.
Collaboration with Security Teams: Your Role
The most effective stance against surveillance and potential threats is not to adopt the mantle of a defender but rather to assist those tasked with your security. Appearing as unremarkable as possible minimizes interest from threat actors, while providing timely and relevant information to your security team enables them to protect you and your organization more effectively. Your insights, especially when shared securely, contribute to a broader understanding that benefits future travelers and organizational security strategies.
Understanding the interplay between personal actions, perceived value, and threat actor interest is crucial in maintaining security. By adopting measures that align with blending in rather than standing out, and by recognizing the importance of supporting your security team rather than taking on the burden of defense, you enhance not just your own safety but that of your entire organization. The key takeaway is clear: in the world of security, less is often more, and subtlety is the greatest protector.
