This article examines the ethical and strategic problems arising from a possible encounter of humanity with extraterrestrial intelligence — both in our Universe and beyond, in neighbouring branes. The author argues that humanity is not ready for such an encounter but can prepare through a system of ironclad protocols, protected from the human tendency to break rules. The approach is based on historical lessons from contacts between human civilisations: the Columbian Exchange, colonialism, introduced species. These examples show that even good intentions can lead to disaster. Therefore, principles must be not declarations but mandatory protocols. The article introduces the "Ant Strategy" — the only permissible way to interact with higher civilisations (Kardashev levels 3.2–3.3 and above): do not attempt contact, leave, hide, transmit data to Control. For different types of encounters (pre‑atomic life, atomic civilisation, Berserker, "Leopard on the Rock"), corresponding protocols are proposed: "Silent Witness," "Absolute Silence," "Stranger," "Doubt," "Sanatorium," "APDO," "Ant." Special attention is paid to the problem of uncoordinated contact by other Earth groups. An international mission registry, ways to distance oneself, and warning channels for higher civilisations are proposed. The article does not provide ready‑made solutions for all possible encounters, does not replace international agreements, and is not a final ethical code. Its purpose is to offer directions for further discussion and protocol development.
Alexander Yourievitch Kotelnikov (Tue,) studied this question.