Link
Many of you are familiar with WhatsApp. However, HBNW currently also uses Link as part of its communications systems.
WhatsApp Link
Group size Restricted Unlimited
Encryption Partial Full
Incident Mapping No Yes
Incident Categorisation No Yes
Real time patroller tracking No Yes
Patroller SOS / Medic function No Yes
Vetted incident reports No Yes
Why not just stick to using Whats App?
Because it has limitations which Link does not.
Do we need all these features?
Yes we do. As the pressures that drive crime in our communities increase we will have to make use of technology that enables us to work smarter and more carefully with crime intelligence that needs to move quickly and securely within the broadening civilian SAPS partnerships that are forming.
HBNW has taken a lead in developing and customising Link (previously know as Ttrumpet) to better suit NW operational needs. We invite you to participate in this development phase by loading the Link app onto your mobile phone from the Android Play Store or iPhone App Store
Participants will be able to receive and contribute information relating to security issues whilst still being able to do everything that you previously did with WhatsApp like Chat, free calls, etc.
Installation guide
Requirements
Android (at least version 2.3) or iPhone
You must be a registered Hout Bay Neighbourhood Watch member
If you are not yet a member then click here to register
Step by Step Guide
(1) Make sure you have Watchcon’s mobile number in your phone contact list: 060 345 3514
(2) Install Link from Google Play or the iPhone App Store
(3) Run the app on your phone and enter your mobile number to register the device
(4) Set up personal details: (from main menu) Profile (top of screen) > Edit > Name / email / address
(5) Add “HBNW Security” to your channels: Chats > Channels > (You can skip this step if your mobile number was registered with HBNW because your access has been granted already)
(6) Add Watchcon to your SOS message list: App Settings > Setup SOS button
Support:
For support please go to https://linkapp.co.za/
Please report any issues to admin@hbnw.co.za
How to use Link
Link is an app which has a fantastic set of features which you can read about at https://linkapp.co.za/ or
This is Link!
This clip will show you how to use Link and familiarise yourself with several of the app's functionalities in just a few quick and easy steps!
Get to know the Link safety & security channel feature from setup through to user validations and input. Become an active player in your local community's safety today.
Why change to Link ?
Group size
WhatsApp restricts the number of users per channel whereas Link does not. This makes it feasible for the Watchcon controller to monitor all alerts in one group while also giving you the choice of what sort of alerts you want to be notified of.
Encryption
WhatsApp has recently implemented end to end encryption but does not offer full encryption. This is particularly important with serious incidents where leaking information onto social media can have detrimental effects when it comes to prosecution of criminals. Our criminal justice system has enough of a challenge getting criminals convicted and does not need the “help” of social media to ruin a case. Members are asked to please treat information on Link as confidential and not share it on social media.
Incident Mapping and Categorisation
One of the challenges at Watchcon is communicating accurate information about an incident in the heat of the moment. Link's incident reporting function allows you choose the type of incident that you have witnessed and send a picture (or video) along with a text description and your GPS location directly to the Controller.
Real time patroller tracking
The “Tag Me” feature can be enabled to allow the Watchcon controller to track your GPS position in real time if you are patrolling or responding to an incident. This is a huge advantage when coordinating a tactical response.
SOS function
The “SOS function” allows you at the push of a button to send an automated distress message directly to Watchcon along with your GPS location in cases of emergency giving the controller instant notification that you need help along with your exact location and contact number. You can also add multiple recipients such as family or friends who will be notified simultaneously.