Chat with other UA workers
Read first: precautions
We use a chat program called SimpleX. It is free, open source, and requires no account or registration. It is an anonymous and private way to communicate – as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. These are especially relevant for using the group chat, where anyone might be present.
Do not use any part of your real name as your username.
Do not use a username that you have ever used before. It’s best to use a totally random username (you can generate one here). You can also let SimpleX generate a random username for you by you choosing “Use incognito profile” when you join our chat or message us.
Do not provide identifying information in the chat. Never type your name, MAU, department, location, gender, years of service, or whatever.
Do not share other information that could be used to de-anonymize you. This might include information that only a few people are privy to. It also might include information sent directly to you by the University; employers use canary traps to identify leakers.
Do not install SimpleX on a work device. Assume the University spies on you if you’re using their hardware.
Do not use your personal devices to connect to University resources. Board of Regents policy gives administration carte blanche to search any device that connects to University resources. Frankly, you shouldn’t even check your email from a personal device!
Before sharing any files, scrub them of metadata. This is a simple guide on what metadata is and how to remove it. macOS and Linux users can use mat2 as well.
Finally, remember that as the struggle heats up, our discussions may draw interest. Anyone could be in our group chat. Cops, scabs, administrators, provocateurs. Who knows? Take no risks!
Instructions
Download SimpleX and install it. The software is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Once installed, you can join our fully anonymous chat group with this link. If you’re on a mobile device, clicking it should open up the chat in SimpleX. If you’re on a laptop/desktop, you should copy the link and paste it into SimpleX’s “Search or paste SimpleX link” field.
You can also use SimpleX to message just the UA Workers team rather than the entire chat.