See also Stop and Search guide, and for more GrapheneOS phone information.
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New South Wales Police have been granted powers to access and download phone content on the beat, targeting devices that facilitate encrypted communication. While GrapheneOS on Google Pixel devices offers robust privacy protections, it cannot guarantee immunity against physical device seizure if the phone is unlocked.
To maximize protection against these powers, you must rely on the following GrapheneOS security features:
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Keep Bootloader Locked: Law enforcement tools (like Cellebrite) can only extract data from unlocked devices. A locked bootloader prevents unauthorized modification and is critical for security.
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Use Auto-Reboot: Configure auto-reboot to return the device to a locked, encrypted state after a set idle period. This defeats forensic extraction tools that require the device to be unlocked and authenticated.
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Disable Biometrics: Biometrics can be forced open by physical access. Use a strong PIN and disable biometrics in high-risk scenarios to ensure the device remains in the Before First Unlock (BFU) state, which encrypts most of the disk.
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Leverage Encryption: GrapheneOS uses hardware-based disk encryption. If the device is locked and encrypted, law enforcement cannot access the data without the PIN.
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Duress PIN: Set up a duress PIN that irreversibly wipes the device and eSIMs, preventing data access under coercion.
Legal Context: In 2023, NSW became the first state to criminalize Dedicated Encrypted Criminal Communication Devices (DECDs). While privacy-focused devices like GrapheneOS are legal, using them to facilitate crimes may change their legal status. GrapheneOS itself is not illegal, but its use in connection with crimes may be prosecuted under existing laws.
Important Note: No device is completely immune to law enforcement access if physically seized and the PIN is known or coerced. The primary defense is keeping the device locked and encrypted at all times when not in active use.
Last Updated 4 weeks ago
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