The Wireless Industry’s Commitment to Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence

July marked a key milestone in the implementation of provisions of the Safe Connections Act of 2022, which was designed to help survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, human trafficking, and related crimes by ensuring they have access to their phones. Abusive partners use phones and other technology to control and monitor survivors of domestic violence, making it difficult for them to seek help or escape the relationship.

This vital piece of bipartisan legislation was strongly supported by the wireless industry and survivor advocate groups, and wireless providers covered by the law have made important resources available to assist survivors seeking to separate from an abuser's phone plan, without incurring penalties or fees. These additional tools offered by the bill help provide survivors with more ways to stay safe.

The industry is deeply committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence through these efforts and a variety of other initiatives and partnerships to provide critical communication services, ensure privacy and safety, and raise awareness of the issues survivors face.

We know how wireless phones can be a lifeline to safety for survivors, and I'm proud to see the wireless industry continue to play an integral role in how best to handle these critical situations in a responsible, equitable and caring manner. Meredith Attwell Baker, President and CEO of CTIA

The Safe Connections Act Helps Protect & Empower Survivors

The law enables wireless providers to set up processes that make it easier for a survivor of domestic violence to safely leave a shared wireless plan and keep their own phone number, which is vital for accessing support services, maintaining employment, and staying connected with loved ones. Key aspects of the Safe Connections Act include:

1. Separation from Shared Plans: Survivors can separate their line from a shared family plan, avoiding the need for permission from the account holder, who may be their abusive partner. This empowers them to take control of their communications without compromising their safety and while minimizing financial burdens.
2. Maintaining Phone Numbers: The Safe Connections Act helps survivors retain their existing number, reducing the risk of losing touch with essential resources and support networks.
3. Privacy and Safety: The Act mandates that wireless providers implement measures to protect the privacy and safety of survivors. This includes keeping their new contact information confidential and preventing abusers from accessing their communications.

All nationwide wireless providers have established dedicated support teams trained to handle these sensitive situations with the utmost care and confidentiality. These teams assist survivors in navigating the process of separating from shared plans, maintaining their phone numbers, and accessing additional support resources.

To learn more about these key provisions, please visit your provider's webpage:

• Appalachian Wireless: Safe Connections
• AT&T: Leave an Account Or Remove Someone Due To Domestic Violence
• Boost Mobile: Boost Mobile's Safe Connections Notice
• Carolina West Wireless: Safe Harbor
• Cellcom: Domestic Violence Survivors: We Can Help You Stay Connected
• CellularOne: Manage Your Mobile Line Safely
• Consumer Cellular: Support For Survivors Of Domestic Violence
• GCI: Notice To Consumers Regarding The Safe Connections Act And Frequently Asked Questions
• H20 Wireless: Keeping You Safe and Connected
• T-Mobile: Keeping Customers Safe & Connected
• Union Wireless: The Safe Connections Act - Communication Independence for Victims of Domestic Abuse
• UScellular: UScellular's Safe Connections Notice
• Verizon: Manage Your Mobile Line In A Domestic Violence Situation

For iPhone users, Apple offers Safety Check, which allows users to disconnect from people, apps and devices.

Partnership with the National Domestic Violence Hotline to Connect Survivors to Help

A cornerstone of the wireless industry's efforts is CTIA's multi-year partnership with the National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline). This collaboration has been instrumental in providing immediate, accessible support to survivors through:

1. 24/7 Access to Help: The Hotline offers round-the-clock assistance to survivors, providing them with critical resources and support to navigate their situation. The wireless industry aids in promoting and facilitating access to this vital service, ensuring that survivors know they have a place to turn at any time.
2. Free Connections: Some wireless providers have programs that allow survivors to contact The Hotline free of charge. This eliminates barriers to seeking help, particularly for those who may not have the financial means to make the call.
3. Resource Distribution: As part of the partnership, the industry is distributing information about The Hotline's services through wireless providers' communication channels. This helps raise awareness about the availability of help and encourages more survivors to contact The Hotline.

Additional Industry Initiatives to Keep Survivors Safely Connected

Beyond efforts around the Safe Connections Act and the partnership with The Hotline, the wireless industry supports survivors through various initiatives:

• Donation of Devices: Many wireless providers and organizations partner to provide free phones and devices to survivors, ensuring they have the tools necessary to stay connected.
• Awareness Campaigns: Others in the wireless industry run campaigns to raise awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to survivors. These campaigns help educate the public and encourage those in need to seek help.
• Support Services: Some wireless providers offer special programs that provide survivors with free or discounted service plans, making it easier for them to manage their finances during challenging times.

Check with your provider to learn more.

The Safe Connections Act and the partnership with the National Domestic Violence Hotline stand as testaments to the wireless industry's support for survivors of domestic violence. These collaborative efforts will have a positive impact on survivors, empowering them as they reclaim their independence and security. Through continued commitment and innovation, the wireless industry plays a vital role in ensuring that survivors have the connectivity they need.

If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship abuse in any form, help is available - text START to 88788, call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or chat online at TheHotline.org. You are not alone.