Signal is an encrypted communications app that allows for reasonably secure communication. You can download Signal on a mobile device app store. Messages sent on Signal are not anonymous when the app is downloaded on a mobile device with a phone number that is connected with your identity.
If your information is highly sensitive or you have concerns about your anonymity DO NOT CONTACT US ON SIGNAL, instead follow our instructions for SecureDrop.Signal is reasonably secure. But it will not protect you if:
If you have reason to believe either of these things is true, then consider following our instructions and contact us on SecureDrop.
Alternatively, use the device of a trusted friend to make initial contact or buy a new smartphone device in cash and use that device and a phone number new to you to install Signal and contact us.
If we decide to proceed with your case, we will notify you with instructions on how to sign a written retainer. Regardless of our initial communications, you are not our client, and we do not represent you, unless and until you have signed a written, signed, paper hard copy retainer agreement provided by us.
If you have not signed a written, paper hard copy retainer agreement you received from Whistleblower Aid, then Whistleblower Aid does not represent you, and you are not Whistleblower Aid’s client.
Before you can sign a written retainer with us, we will require proof of your name and identity (although this information is not required in your first message). Regardless of whether we accept you as an actual client, all your communications with us are privileged communications and entitled to legal protection.
Precisely follow the detailed steps below to contact Whistleblower Aid. There is always risk in any online communication, but we feel comfortable recommending this method for less sensitive cases and concerns.
Our number on Signal will only work and respond to messages sent using the Signal app. Do NOT try to communicate with our intake number using regular SMS messaging or other service. We won’t receive it and it may create a digital record.
To message us on Signal, download the Signal app and send a message to:
+1 201-773-1371
See below for what to include in your initial message.
Signal can receive attachments. This functionality is amplified if you connect your mobile Signal app to Signal for Desktop. The use of attachments may help you share a succinct account of your claim. DO NOT attach documents or evidence that are classified or obtained illegally. Lawyers may not receive and possess such information. Anything that appears classified or illegally obtained will be deleted immediately.
Whistleblower complaints should include a claim of waste, fraud, abuse or illegality by a United States government agency or official. Please provide as much of the following information as possible:
We cannot accept every case, but we review each message carefully. Our decision about whether and on what terms to accept a case is entirely at our own discretion. We reserve the right to refuse any case or client. This website is for informational and advertising purposes only. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome for any other case. Information on this website does not constitute legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
When Whistleblower Aid chooses not to accept a case or client we will generally inform you within two weeks by return message. To protect the security and privacy of those who reach out to us we do not leave messages about cases we choose not to accept sitting around. Thirty days after we have sent you a notice saying we are not taking your case we will delete any messages you have sent us.