All About Signal

Información de Signal 📱Signal Information 

We communicate mainly through Signal. You will need to download the app on your phone. You will be added to the appropriate Signal groups once you've completed the Volunteer Form and been properly vetted.

How To Get On Signal 

1. Download the app called “Signal” on the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android)

2. Open the app, and follow the on-screen instructions to set up registration. This will include connecting the app to your phone number, and you will need to verify your phone number in the process. **Don’t enter your legal first and last name. Choose a nickname instead to make the app safer** 

3. Once the app is set up, click the letter(s) in the top left hand corner of the app screen and go to “Settings.” Verify or adjust the following settings. They are important for using the app safely. 

a. Click your Signal name at the top > Choose a “username.” You can choose one word, it should not be your legal name. The app will add a dot and two numbers automatically after the word you choose. 

b. Account > Registration Lock should be ON (green) 

c. Chats > Share Contacts with iOS/Android should be OFF (grey), and Use Phone Contact Photos should be OFF (grey) 

d. Notifications > Under Notification Content choose “Show” and set it to “No Name or Content” 

e. Privacy > Choose “Phone Number” and make sure both settings are set to “Nobody.” Set your “Disappearing Messages” default to 1 week. You can make it longer for particular chats if needed.

4. Connect with others.

a. Click the “Pen” icon in the top right hand corner of the app screen, choose “Find by Username,” and search for the username of the person you want to write to (username is the single word+dot+two numbers, visible Settings > Your signal name) OR 

b. If you are together, click the “Pen” icon in the top right hand corner of the app screen, choose “Find by Username,” and then choose “Scan QR Code.” The other person can show your phone their QR code by going to “Settings > their signal name > QR code or Link.” 

3. Best practices for using Signal:

Share factual observations only to keep the community informed.

Do:

•  Lock your phone with a strong passcode.

•  Use Signal PIN and hide lock-screen previews.

•  Deny permission for Signal to access your contacts 

•  Share what you see, where (general area), and when.

•  Use neutral, factual language.

•  Follow pinned rules and admin guidance.

Don’t

•  Don't use your real name or photo - you can change your name in Settings

•  Don’t post exact locations of meetings

•  Don’t speculate, joke, or spread rumors.

•  Don’t share names, faces, or personal info.

•  Don’t post exact home addresses or track individuals - general area like neighborhood, cross streets, etc is best.

•  Don’t screenshot or forward messages outside the group.

Media

•  Share photos/videos only if necessary.

•  Avoid faces of bystanders or group members.

•  Assume anything shared can be saved.

Safety

•  Disappearing messages reduce risk—but nothing is guaranteed.

•  If your phone is lost or taken, alert an admin immediately.

•  When in doubt, don’t post. Community safety comes first.