Informal networks
Some journalists (#5, #6) described digital security practices like using dual
phones/SIM cards or regularly changing passwords as “common sense,” even without
formal training in digital security. Informal networks, including peers—fellow journalists
and pro-democracy activists—as well as indirect experiences through stories and
rumours about security threats like doxxing, significantly contribute to normalising
these practices (#1). Others, like Journalist #2, adopt these habits through
experiential learning, gradually integrating digital security into their routine.
Infrastructure support
Since the onset of the coup, support groups have played a crucial role in providing
essential infrastructure support to activist and journalist networks, although
limitations persist. The consistent distribution of VPN gift vouchers has offered a
secure communication channel amid challenging circumstances. Furthermore, highrisk profile activists and journalists received additional assistance from support
groups in the form of banner phones and eSIMs. However, it is important to note that
this support has reached only a limited number of individuals, with many working
journalists lacking adequate infrastructure support from their media houses.
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