Glossary

The bootloader is the first software that runs every time you turn on a phone or computer. Its job is to wake up the hardware and load the operating system (such as Android or iOS) into action.

• Locked bootloader: Configured by the manufacturer to only start their approved operating system. It prevents installing alternative or community-supported systems on the device.
• Unlocked bootloader: Allows the device owner to install, change, or update the operating system freely (such as installing a different version of Android or Linux).

The ability of citizens, businesses, and governments to maintain control over their own digital technologies, data, and software without being locked into foreign or monopolistic platforms.

Hardware attestation is a security method that helps verify that a device is genuine and has not been tampered with. It uses special hardware features to create a trusted certificate that confirms the device’s identity and security state.

The practice where companies discontinue security updates and support for functional devices after a few years, rendering them insecure and pushing owners to purchase new hardware.