What is the Buzzer app?

The Buzzer app is a community safety app that helps residents in South Africa stay safe and informed. The app allows users to create and share alerts about crime and safety concerns, view real-time crime updates, and connect with other residents in their neighbourhoods.

How does the Buzzer app work?

The Buzzer app is easy to use. Simply download the app, create an account, and start using it. You can create and share alerts about crime and safety concerns, view real-time crime updates, and connect with other residents in your neighbourhoods. Use the SOS panic button in emergencies and get help fast with connected local responders and community members.

What are the benefits of using the Buzzer app?

There are many benefits to using the Buzzer app. The app can help you stay safe and informed about crime in your neighbourhood, connect with other residents, and build a stronger sense of community. Use the SOS panic button in emergencies and get help fast with connected local responders and community members.

How can I create an alert?

To create an alert, simply open the Buzzer app and tap on the “Report” button. You can then select the type of alert you want to create, such as a crime alert, safety alert, or other type of alert. You can also add a photo or description to your alert. You can also send a voice note in the Alert chat.

How can I view real-time crime updates?

To view real-time crime updates, simply open the Buzzer app and tap on the “Alerts” or “Broadcasts” tab. You will then see a list of recent crime alerts that have been created in your area.

How can I connect with other residents in my neighbourhood?

By adding a Location to your profile, you are connected to and linked with other residents in your neighbourhood who are also on Buzzer. You will then see Alerts and Reports from all other residents in your neighbourhood.

Is the Buzzer app safe?

Yes, the Buzzer app is safe. The app uses a variety of security measures to protect your personal information.

How can I contact Buzzer?

If you have any questions about the Buzzer app, please contact us at [email protected]

Do I need to set a location? I’m worried about my privacy.

Yes, setting a location is essential for the Buzzer app to function properly. Your location tells us where the emergency or incident occurred so that help can be sent to the right place. It also tells us which alerts and notifications you should receive, so that you only get relevant information to your area.

Buzzer is designed with your privacy in mind. Your specific location information is encrypted and securely transmitted to ensure your privacy is protected.

When you send an alert, only the responding organisation can see your name and phone number. This is necessary for the people helping you to be able to contact you during the emergency/incident. Other users in the vicinity can see your location on the map. This is so that they may be able to help if emergency responders aren’t close enough to get to you in time.

How do I set my location?

The Buzzer app uses your device’s GPS or network-based location services to automatically determine your location. Ensure that your device’s location services are enabled, and the app will detect your location automatically. Setting Locations however helps us deliver Alerts and Notifications that are relevant to you in these alert areas.

Who will help me if I press an alert?

When you press the SOS alert button on the Buzzer app, it notifies an Emergency Response Organisation control room that is connected to the app and that is in your area. It will also notify other Buzzer users within the area who have opted to receive alerts.

These users can provide assistance (e.g. help spot suspects, provide first aid, etc.) or report the situation to the appropriate authorities.

Does the Buzzer app use a lot of data?

The data usage of the Buzzer app is minimal. We have designed it with your data usage in mind!

Do I need a SIM card to use the Buzzer app?

Yes, a SIM card and an active mobile number are required to use the Buzzer app. The app relies on cellular networks to send and receive alerts, as well as to determine your location.

I sent through an alert by mistake. How can I delete it?

Once an alert is sent through the Buzzer app, it cannot be deleted. Kindly send a message in the app to let people know that it was a mistake. One of the controllers will then close it for you.

I’m not getting alerts in my area. Is Buzzer working?

Buzzer relies on other users in your vicinity to report and send alerts. If there are no active Buzzer users in your area or if there are no recent alerts, you may not receive alerts. You may need to increase the radius on your Buzzer app so that you receive alerts from a bigger area. The default setting is 250 metres and can be changed to up to 10km. Find this setting in your Profile > My Locations.

How do I upgrade to premium features?

To upgrade your Buzzer app, you can visit the app’s menu, profile settings or the designated upgrade section within the app. There, you will find instructions and options to upgrade to a premium plan. You can also visit our website to upgrade from there.

How can I see that I’ve upgraded?

Once you have successfully upgraded your Buzzer app to a premium plan, you will receive a confirmation message or email. You can also view your upgraded status in your Profile section on the app. If you are still unsure, you can email us at fiona@buzzer.co.za.

How can I stop following an alert?

At present, there is no way to unfollow alerts, but you can swipe an alert away (swipe the alert to the right) and you will no longer receive updates on the alert.

What does Buzzer cost?

Choose to explore the app with the free version or choose to upgrade to premium for only R89 per month. Premium allows you to add up to 3 locations and up to 3 emergency contacts as well as other exciting premium features launching soon.

Do you adhere to the POPI Act?

Yes, Buzzer conforms strictly to the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act.

Is my data safe?

Buzzer aims to prioritise the security and protection of user data. They employ various measures such as encryption, secure transmission protocols, and secure storage to safeguard your data. However, it is always recommended to review the app’s privacy policy and terms of service to understand how your data is handled and protected.

Is my location safe and private?

Buzzer takes privacy seriously and makes efforts to ensure the safety and privacy of your location information.

How do I add a connection?

To add a connection on the Buzzer app, you navigate to the connections or friends section within the app. There, you may find an option to search for or invite other users to connect with you. Follow the provided instructions to add connections and establish communication within the app.

Is Buzzer everywhere?

Buzzer is predominantly used in Cape Town and surrounding areas. We are growing rapidly across the country. The easiest way to see if you have Buzzer coverage is to open the app. The first screen will tell how many organisations and Buzzer users are in the area.

How do I report anonymously on Buzzer?

To report anonymously on the Buzzer app, go to Report, then select Private. Your alert will only go to the local control rooms. No other users will see your report.