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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Encrypted Phone

Choosing the right encrypted phone is crucial for safeguarding digital privacy, especially for executive leadership teams, traveling executives in high-threat areas like China, NGOs, and physical security teams. Our guide covers key considerations, emphasizing features like end-to-end encryption and tailored recommendations for iPhone users, robust Android alternatives, and specialized secure options. It empowers informed decisions based on individual needs and security concerns in high-risk environments.

Whether you're part of a multinational executive team or an individual concerned about past targeting, securing your personal and professional communications is crucial. With numerous options available, it's vital to navigate through key considerations to make an informed decision that suits your needs. From security features to personal preferences, here's our comprehensive guide to help you choose the right encrypted phone.

Glacier travel kit designed for secure connectivity while traveling

Understanding Your Priorities

Before diving into the technical specifications, take a moment to assess your priorities. 

Consider:

  • Personal Comfort: Are you accustomed to a particular operating system? If you're an iPhone aficionado or dedicated to Android, sticking to your preferred platform might streamline your experience and make it easier to adapt.
  • Security Concerns: Define your primary security worries. Are you more focused on preventing data leakage to advertising companies, or is your concern centered around physical security and safeguarding your privacy?
  • Usage Patterns: Assess your usage patterns. Do you require robust security for sensitive work communications, or are you looking for an all-encompassing solution for personal use?

Key Features to Consider

  • End-to-End Encryption: Ensure the device offers end-to-end encryption for calls, messages, and data. This feature prevents unauthorized access, guaranteeing your conversations remain private. Keep in mind that any other person you communicate with should also have an encrypted phone, or at the very least have a secure messaging app installed such as Glacier Chat app to keep the conversation end-to-end encrypted.
  • An encrypted phone should be able to make phone calls to anywhere in the world without exposing its true wireless number. This is the number that is associated with your wireless plan, which can be used to track your device.
  • Securing an encrypted phone extends beyond the device itself. Opting to procure such a phone through secure and separate channels from the end-user becomes pivotal in mitigating supply chain tracking risks. Using organizations like Glacier can mitigate these risks, reducing potential exposure to supply chain vulnerabilities.
Glacier encrypted phone kit with Google Pixel running altOS operating system

Selecting the Right Device

Based on your considerations and the features outlined, here are some recommendations:

  • iPhone: For those comfortable and aligned with the Apple ecosystem, iPhones offer robust security, regular updates, and a user-friendly interface.
  • Android Devices: Android phones offer security features and customization options. Look for models with strong encryption and a commitment to timely software updates like the Google Pixel.
  • Specialized Secure Phones: Explore options from Glacier specializing in secure communications with hardened and fully supported operating systems like altOS. These devices are tailored solutions with enhanced privacy features.

Keep in mind that the selection of the most suitable encrypted phone hinges upon your unique needs, preferences, and the requisite level of security. Investing time in thorough research, model comparisons, and prioritizing your criteria is essential. If you're contemplating encrypted phones for your business or organization, we offer a tailored questionnaire to assist in identifying the most fitting solution for your specific requirements. Allow us to guide you toward the optimal choice that aligns seamlessly with your objectives.

April 18, 2021
by 
Team Glacier