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Hardware
What is Hardware Kill Switch?
A physical switch that electrically disconnects a component like the camera, microphone, WiFi, or cellular radio, providing a hardware guarantee that it cannot be activated.
Hardware kill switches provide a guarantee that no software — no matter how compromised — can activate a disabled component.
Why Software Switches Aren't Enough
- A software "off" can be overridden by malware or a compromised OS
- Pegasus spyware can activate microphones on compromised phones
- Remote access tools can enable cameras without the indicator light
- Software controls ultimately rely on trusting the software
Devices with Kill Switches
- Purism Librem 5: Switches for WiFi/Bluetooth, cellular, camera/microphone
- Purism Librem 14: Switches for WiFi/Bluetooth, camera, microphone
- Pine64 PinePhone: DIP switches for modem, WiFi, microphone, speaker, cameras
- Nitrokey NitroPad: Hardware modifications for camera disable
Use Cases
- Meetings where phone surveillance is a concern
- Crossing borders (disable cellular before entering Faraday bag)
- Activists and journalists in hostile environments
- Anyone who wants verifiable hardware control over their devices
Related Terms
Baseband Processor
A separate processor in your phone that handles all cellular communication, runs its own proprietary firmware, and has direct access to the microphone and GPS.
Faraday Cage
An enclosure made of conductive material that blocks electromagnetic fields, used in privacy to prevent wireless signals from reaching or leaving a device.
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