Our Mission
Open Signal Foundation builds open-source tools that help people access verified information when the internet is blocked, unsafe, or unreliable.
Why We Exist
When governments impose internet shutdowns, filter content, or surveil communications, communities lose access to verified information at the moments they need it most. Journalists, activists, families, and humanitarian workers all depend on reliable access to information.
Open Signal Foundation was created to address this gap through public-interest technology — open-source tools designed with safety, transparency, and resilience at their core.
What We Build
We operate two complementary programs:
- FreeWave — offline-first emergency and news distribution using signed QR video broadcasts
- IranVPN — research-driven tools for safer internet access under filtering conditions
Our Principles
- Open source — all code is publicly auditable
- Safety first — we never overpromise on anonymity or access
- Transparency — we publish how funds are used
- Humanitarian framing — technology in service of information access, not politics
- Community-driven — built with volunteers, donors, and partners worldwide
Who We Serve
Our tools and research are designed for journalists, NGOs, developers, donors, and at-risk communities who need reliable access to verified information during crises and censorship events.