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by fsflover 1218 days ago
Yes, desktop GNU/Linux has a long way to go to get to the security model of Android. Yes, FDE only works for the turned off device (at the current stage). But, depending on your threat model, the phone can already be more secure nevertheless.

For example, if you do not trust the manufacturers in China, you can verify the schematics, or order Librem 5 USA. Or, if you suspect your device is compromised, you can rely on the kill switches to make sure you are not tracked or listened to. Can you do these on Android? I'm sure there are known vulnerabilities for the latter on the black market.

Another example: If you use the smart card to read or sign your emails, you can be sure that even a hacked or stolen unlocked phone would not allow the attackers to manage your email identity.

People who say that Librem 5 is less secure than Android do not take into consideration that threat models can affect it a lot. You cannot simply declare "it's insecure" without considering the threat models. Also, I guess if you are fine with the security of your GNU/Linux laptop, which you take with you, you should be also more or less fine with the Librem 5 security.

I am not even speaking about the freedom benefits. Also, there is no security and privacy without freedom (https://puri.sm/posts/why-freedom-is-essential-to-security-a...). In the long term, Google is heading toward the walled garden on Android, just like Apple does. I would not bet on it for the future. If you care about security more than freedom and need Android-style security now, then Librem 5 is not for you.