Keeping people safe, one message at a time.
Every year, thousands of migrants risk, and often lose their lives searching for safety. In 2024 alone, over 8,900 migrants died, making it the deadliest year on record. Since 2014, more than 63,000 people have gone missing or died along migration routes. These displacements or deaths usually occur in deserts or overseas, where many are cut off from help due to a lack of internet, smartphones, or even fear of being tracked. SafeLink works to bridge this divide. While only 30–40% of migrants have reliable internet access, over 60% can still receive basic SMS. By utilizing simple SMS systems available even on 2G flip phones, SafeLink can deliver life‑saving guidance to anyone who is need regardless of their situation.
SafeLink operates through simple SMS and satellite messaging where no smartphone, app, or internet access is required. Users will text a keyword like “HELP” or “EXIT” followed by a location to a local SafeLink number. The system will then take the message, interprets the user’s need, and respond with clear information tailored to that prompt and region.
For example, if someone texts “HELP SHELTER" SafeLink may reply with a list of nearby shelters, legal aid offices, and safety tips specific to Cairo. If they text “EXIT PALESTINE” they’ll receive step-by-step guidance on legal migration routes, documents required, and border crossing times. (See left side)
SafeLink works by utilizing SMS gateways like Vonage or Plivo to route user messages to a cloud-based server, where a lightweight Python/Flask app processes the user request and returns pre-verified information according to given locations such as shelters, legal aid, or safety tips. No internet, apps, or accounts are needed. Our data will be sourced from both official Government agencies and local NGOs, which will then be stored in an easily updatable backend, starting with Airtable and scaling to a structured SQL database as we grow. To reach even more people in remote areas, we plan on partnering with organizations like Starlink to integrate low-bandwidth satellite messaging, allowing access that extends far beyond normal cell networks, providing migrants everywhere with SafeLink.
Is SafeLink safe to use for undocumented migrants?
Absolutely yes. Privacy and safety has and always will be our number one concern. SafeLink collects no personal data, does not track GPS locations, and is built specifically for people who may be avoiding detection. We provide our help and services no questions asked.
What phones are compatible with SafeLink?
Any phone that can send and receive basic SMS text messages will be able to use SafeLink. This includes old feature phones and non-smartphones.
What if I don’t speak English?
SafeLink supports multiple languages and is designed to respond in the user’s preferred or most common local language. We are continuously expanding our language support.
Is there a cost to use SafeLink?
While SafeLink itself is free to use, SMS fees may apply depending on the country and carrier. We wish to partner with NGOs and mobile providers to either mitigate or entirely eliminate these costs wherever possible.
What number should I message to access SafeLink?
SafeLink aims to establish one universal access number for reliability and convenience regardless of region, while also implementing country-specific shortcodes when possible in partnership with local telecom companies. This hybrid approach ensures that users can reach us whether they’re using a local SIM, roaming internationally, or relying on satellite-based SMS in rural/disconnected areas.
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