Tools & Resources
The right tools make coordination safer and more effective. This page covers recommended platforms and technologies for cell operations, along with security considerations for each.
Core Communication
Signal
What it is: Encrypted messaging app for secure communication.
Use for:
- All cell coordination and communication
- Segment-specific groups
- Voice calls during active operations
- Sharing photos (with disappearing messages)
Security features:
- End-to-end encryption (only sender and recipient can read)
- Disappearing messages (auto-delete after set time)
- Screen lock and screen security
- Registration lock (prevents SIM-swap attacks)
- Minimal metadata retention
What to avoid:
- Don't share specific addresses in text (use photo method)
- Don't keep sensitive messages indefinitely (use disappearing messages)
- Don't screenshot sensitive information
- Don't use for public announcements (use other channels)
Setup guide: See Signal Setup for detailed configuration.
PRIMARY TOOL
Signal is the backbone of cell communication. Every member must have it properly configured before joining any segment.
Secure Collaboration
CryptPad
What it is: Encrypted, zero-knowledge collaborative documents and forms platform.
Use for:
- Creating secure intake forms for community members
- Collaborative document editing (meeting notes, planning docs)
- Polls and surveys within the cell
- Spreadsheets for coordination (not for storing sensitive data)
Security features:
- End-to-end encryption
- No account required (can use anonymously)
- Zero-knowledge architecture (CryptPad can't read your data)
- Self-destructing documents option
- No tracking or analytics
What to avoid:
- Don't store lists of vulnerable community members
- Don't keep permanent records of activities
- Don't use for long-term data storage
- Don't share CryptPad links on public platforms
Access: cryptpad.fr (free) or self-host for maximum security
TEMPORARY USE ONLY
CryptPad is excellent for temporary collaboration, but remember: the safest data is data that doesn't exist. Delete documents when no longer needed.
Fundraising & Financial Support
GoFundMe (or similar platforms)
What it is: Crowdfunding platform for raising money for community members in need.
Use for:
- Emergency funds for legal fees, bail, rent
- Medical expenses for community members
- Supporting families after detention or deportation
- Business recovery after harassment
Security considerations:
- Public platform: Assume anything posted is visible to everyone, including law enforcement
- Use general language: "Supporting a local family in need" not "Bail fund for ICE detention"
- Don't name individuals: Protect the identity of who you're helping
- Separate from cell identity: Don't link fundraisers directly to your cell's name or structure
Alternatives:
- Mutual aid networks: Direct cash transfers through trusted community members
- Cash-based systems: For maximum privacy, though harder to scale
- Cryptocurrency: For tech-savvy cells, offers more anonymity (but has learning curve)
FINANCIAL PRIVACY
The more public the fundraising, the less operational detail you should share. Keep fundraising general and separate from specific cell activities.
Language Access
Google Translate
What it is: Free translation tool for text, speech, and images.
Use for:
- Real-time translation during community interactions
- Translating documents and forms
- Communication with multilingual community members
- Understanding written materials in different languages
Security considerations:
- Not private: Google can see everything you translate
- Don't translate sensitive information: Names, addresses, operational details
- Use for general communication only: Know Your Rights info, general coordination
- Offline mode available: Download language packs for offline translation (more secure)
Best practices:
- Use offline mode when possible
- Translate general concepts, not specific operational details
- Have multilingual members review important translations
- Consider hiring professional translators for critical documents
Alternatives:
- DeepL: Often more accurate, but still not private
- Offline dictionaries: For basic word lookup without internet
- Community translators: Most secure option for sensitive content
Additional Tools
Secure Email (for external communication)
Recommended: ProtonMail, Tutanota
- End-to-end encrypted
- Based outside US jurisdiction
- Use for external communication only (not internal cell coordination)
Password Managers
Recommended: Bitwarden, 1Password
- Store complex passwords securely
- Essential for admins managing multiple accounts
- Enable two-factor authentication
VPN Services
Recommended: Mullvad, ProtonVPN
- Hides your IP address and location
- Useful for admins accessing sensitive systems
- Not necessary for most members (Signal already encrypts)
Tool Selection Principles
When evaluating any new tool, ask:
- Is it encrypted? End-to-end encryption is non-negotiable for sensitive communication
- Who can access our data? Zero-knowledge systems are best
- What metadata is collected? Less is better
- Is it widely used? Popular tools are less suspicious than obscure ones
- Can we use it anonymously? No account or minimal information is ideal
- What happens if it's compromised? Assume any tool can be breached
The golden rule: Use the right tool for the right job. Signal for coordination, CryptPad for temporary collaboration, cash for maximum financial privacy.