August 2020

by Aidan Rosen & Emily Chen

Edited by Kavya Gurunath, Uday Lingampalli, & Sahithi Lingampalli, Layout by Sahithi Lingampalli

In today's age of uncertainty, with riots, tension, and a pandemic raging, Circle of 6 is an app that works to help people defend themselves via streamlined communication. It is named so because the app shows a circle of 6 contacts chosen by the user.

The app makes it quick and easy to reach the person of choice for messaging, calling, or even sending your location. Circle of 6 is made for anyone at any age in any situation.

The app is currently not available on Android, and it is suggested to use Circulo instead. Circulo features end to end encryption. Circle of 6 does not collect personal information.

We designed Circle of 6 to feel like a lifestyle app and to be discreet. Because a third party won't assume it's a safety app, the user has more privacy to ask for help.

says Thomas Cabus, the Creative Director.

The website also has a resource page to deal with problems, such as rape or assault, which this app helps defend against so that anyone can get further help.

So, how does it work? There are three options: to send your location, a message, or a call. All are automated and streamlined to truly receive help at just the click of a button. No typing, no time wasting. The button for messaging texts "I need to talk," location texts "Come get me. I need help getting home safely," and calling texts "Call and pretend you need me. I need an interruption." Outside of direct communication, the app also features helpful links next to the "i" button for info on sexuality, relationships, and safety.

There are also hotlines available that are specialized to your needs, such as Spanish-speaking hotlines, LGBTQ+ hotlines, and more. They are all based on personal priorities.

The company developed the app with advice from survivors, LGBTQ users, and experts. After its great success, it has spread to 36 countries.

Achieving praise from the U.S. Air Force and with over 300,000 users worldwide, this app is certainly popular and impactful enough to achieve its goals of providing safety to all.