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  "path": "/t/laptop-with-cellular-connectivity-a-concern/38674#post_1",
  "publishedAt": "2026-06-21T22:04:55.000Z",
  "site": "https://discuss.privacyguides.net",
  "textContent": "I am looking into getting a used Thinkpad to install Linux on and both models I was leaning towards have a SIM card tray and thus are capable of cellular connectivity.\n\nMy understand - which could be wrong - is that at least with a cellular phone the baseband processor is a privacy concern because it could at least technically connect to/communicate with a tower independently of the CPU, and without the user ever knowing, even in airplane mode or with cellular turned off. Because of this I am trying to minimize my cellphone (devices with baseband processors) use and what I need it for, including going as far as getting an old school dumbphone with removable battery.\n\nDoes that concern carry over to a laptop with a SIM card slot? I would never put a SIM in it, but I assume it has a baseband processor in it and it could independently communicate with a tower without me knowing right?\n\nI assume with a laptop and linux maybe there are more options to disable that and/or disconnect it.\n\nI was really surprised to see that old Thinkpads have SIM card slots. I was really close to getting one but now I am not sure.\n\nWould love people’s thoughts on this.",
  "title": "Laptop with cellular connectivity a concern?"
}