Your computer: Windows and Mac

For anyone whose computer holds documents, chats or social media and could be seized in a search or inspected at a border.

The 5-minute minimum

• Turn on disk encryption: Mac System Settings → Privacy & Security → FileVault; Windows 11 Settings → Privacy & security → Device encryption (BitLocker on Pro).
• Don't keep the recovery key on the same computer. With a Microsoft account Windows stores the key in that account; decide whether you want it there.
• Use a login password and auto-lock; shut down rather than sleep before travel or if you fear a search.
• Keep the system and browser updated.

If you are at risk

• Mac: Lockdown Mode if you may be targeted by spyware.
• Windows Copilot+ PCs: make sure Recall (screen snapshots) is off.
• Sign out of desktop messengers before travel; for trips to Russia or Belarus a laptop without work data is safer.

What not to do

• Don't leave the computer on and unlocked unattended.
• Don't install software from forwarded links or cracked versions.
• Don't remotely wipe a seized phone or laptop (Find My, Find Hub) without talking to a lawyer first: it can be treated as destroying evidence.

What traces remain

• Cloud sync keeps copies of files elsewhere; an encrypted disk is open while you are logged in.

current as of 26 September 2026. More: Security in-a-Box: protecting Windows (Russian); Security in-a-Box: protecting a Mac (Russian); Apple: encrypt your Mac with FileVault; EFF Surveillance Self-Defense: encrypting your device (Russian); Microsoft: finding your BitLocker recovery key; First Line: strong passwords and password managers