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Tag: communications

  • Secure Communications for The American Reformation: Telegram App

    Secure Communications for The American Reformation: Telegram App

    Those Patriots who wish to communicate with fellow Patriots in a more secure manner – for whatever reason – may want to look into the communications tool called “Telegram”. Telegram is a communications tool available as both a web-based and mobile app interface.

    Working very much like any other chat app such as Facebook Messenger Telegram offers several features which may be attractive:

    • Telegram is secure – or at least much more secure than typical communication tools.
    • Telegram is fast.
    • Telegram allows for both individual and group messaging and chats.
    • Telegram allows the sharing of files.
    • Secret texts can be sent which will self-destruct.
    • Available on all of your devices.
    • Voice messages can be sent.
    • Telegram is 100% FREE

    Setup is extremely easy and not much different than any other app. Telegram does require access to your contact list and camera in order to send messengers as well as photos.

    Telegram can send two types of messages with both being encrypted.

    CLOUD: The first is a cloud-based message which is stored on the Telegram servers. While this may seem very un-secure it is not at all. While it is possible for the FBI to access these messages via a warrant, the ability for hackers to access the cloud is extremely difficult. Security is what Telegram is built their reputation and existence on. As of today, Telegram has provided zero data to anyone making requests. This includes governments.

    SECRET CHAT: The second type of message is called the “secret chat”. In this format, messages are sent and received and can ONLY be accessed using the end users devices. This means that they are not saved on the Telegram servers and cannot be accessed by anyone – except those who use the user’s devices. These messages can be set to self-destruct. This is the most secure method within the Telegram app. Currently, the Secret Chat option is only available for person to person communications. Group Secret Chats are not an option – at least for now.

    While there are pro’s and con’s to all secure communication apps Telegram continues to be the leader of the pack. Constant updates and added features keep things interesting and new features are added all the time.

    Telegram – Secure Communication Solution?

    I will tell you from my experience using Telegram over the past year it is fantastic. My preparedness group uses it as their exclusive communications tool. We set up multiple group chat rooms to use for different topics. Pictures, videos, and other files can be sent as well as audio. Frequently while I am driving if I need to communicate something to the group I just press the audio button and record my message – and then it sends automatically when I am done.

    Whether it is in the middle of the American Reformation or the beginnings we find ourselves now Telegram is but one solution for more secure communications.

    Note: Telegram is available for both the Android and iOS operating systems, as well as a web based access point. This means that virtually every multimedia device from Smartphones, tablets, and PC’s can utilize the technology.

    Visit https://telegram.org/ for more information.

  • SHTF Communications: How Far Do You Want To Talk?

    SHTF Communications: How Far Do You Want To Talk?

    Articles on SHTF communications often dive right into super expensive systems allowing communication across the country – or the world. In my own personal efforts, I have been working on trying to set up a system for what I would refer to as a “local” communications network for my group. Ideally, we are talking 20 miles and less.

    Many may hear this goal and consider it meager – “Hey – just connect to a Ham repeater.” While using a Ham repeater will allow 20 miles and much more I am looking for reliable independent communications. Efforts have been very frustrating and really not for this article. I have had some very good success lately and the retreat is currently set up for upwards of 10+ miles with no repeater. This is excellent for patrolling and inbound members. Longer range is just a matter of time.

    The purpose of this article is to consider the perspective – in a world filled with cell phones, texting, Facetime, and other means of instant communication – if it disappeared today could you stay in touch with those heading up the street to check on a neighbor? That trip to the store or up the road to see Billy that used to be considered routine and no big deal post-SHTF might not be quite the same.

    SHTF, radio, FRS, GMRS, communications, prepper, preparedness

    Although AM/FM and shortwave radios can bring in news and provide valuable information – they are both one-way communication methods which offer limitations.

    Assuming that some form of SHTF situation has occurred – why would person to person communications be important?

    • Assist in finding missing persons and pets.
    • Announce rising flood waters to others in the area.
    • Communicate direction of brush fires.
    • Communicate with others in a hunting party.
    • Perimeter patrols.
    • Tactical operations and movements.
    • Save time and energy to be able to relay information over distance rather than drive or walk to those you are wanting to communicate with.
    • Warn of impending danger.
    • Communicate observations of people moving through an area.
    • Call of help or assistance while someone is not at home.

    The list could go on and on.

    SHTF, survival, communications, prepper, preparedness, commo, distance

    Some considerations regarding a local communications network include equipping the home with some form of base station, vehicles with mobile units, and people with handheld transceivers(HT). Ideally, all could communicate with each other when within the boundaries of the local network area, however, that is not always possible when independent of any repeating system.

    The exact components I have used and have had success with will come in a later article. Again the point of this article is to get you thinking. How far are you needing(not wanting) to communicate? This is an important question to answer before setting up your system. Know that generally the longer you want to be able to transmit and receive the more expensive it is.

    Rourke