Silent Link, a Bitcoin-native SMS and mobile data service provider, has emerged as an international entity catering to privacy-conscious users at competitive rates. This raises the question of how a relatively nascent company can effectively compete with established mobile data giants.
Bitcoin Native and Privacy-Focused
Silent Link was conceived during the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020. Bob recounted being inspired through a series of podcasts featuring Matt Odell, which prompted him to establish his own BTCPay Server instance. He recognized that creating a digital business within the Bitcoin ecosystem would provide a robust method for accumulating Bitcoin through self-custody.
After implementing the foundational payment systems typical for Bitcoin enterprises—including BTCPay servers, an open-source stack with Lightning support, and full invoicing and accounting capabilities—Bob and his expanding team identified a pressing need: a modern data and SMS service. Silent Link is now capable of offering users around the globe competitive data rates, alongside incoming SMS texts essential for authentication with legacy institutions such as banks and numerous online platforms. Notably, the service does not facilitate outgoing texts or standard phone calls, as these protocols are heavily monitored by governments and do not align with the security preferences of the target audience, who predominantly utilize more secure messaging applications.
As a privacy-first Bitcoin company, Silent Link ensures that its services are not linked to personal information, which can often be closely tied to financial systems in various countries—sometimes even affecting credit scores. Unlike conventional providers, Silent Link collects no personal user data. Bob emphasized that “not even the local data carrier knows your phone number.”
Moreover, Silent Link eSIMs can be acquired without requiring an email address from users. Bob explained that by maintaining a policy of minimal user information, the company reduces the potential for hacks and eliminates the existence of a centralized data repository susceptible to breaches. To date, the company has reported “zero requests for user information” from governmental entities. This model fosters a mutually beneficial dynamic between Silent Link and its users, ensuring that user data is not commodified for resale to third parties. Additionally, the company operates as a self-funded and profitable entity, which Bob believes further aligns its objectives with those of its users, asserting that “you cannot serve two masters.”
Upon purchasing an eSIM, users receive a unique link—a code that can be securely backed up similarly to the recovery phrases used for Bitcoin wallets. This simplified authentication model effectively mitigates the risks associated with SIM card swap attacks, which have historically resulted in substantial financial thefts within the industry.
Roaming and Travel Automated
Enhancing the user experience, which is tailored for frequent travelers concerned about cybersecurity, Silent Link automates and streamlines roaming-related decisions as users transition between countries. Bob stated that users benefit from the same phone number operational in most regions, eliminating the need to acquire a temporary local SIM card or engage with customer service for additional purchases. Silent Link effortlessly connects to local data providers and utilizes customers’ account balances, reducing friction and maintaining competitive pricing.
According to Bob, Silent Link possesses the capability to bypass state-imposed firewalls, including those in China, as users have reported successful access to WhatsApp from Dubai, where Voice over IP (VoIP) restrictions are in place. The eSIM model significantly contributes to this censorship-resistant feature enabled by Silent Link.
Furthermore, users are not subjected to throttling of data-sharing hotspot functionalities, a crucial feature for perpetual travelers and Bitcoin enthusiasts attending conferences worldwide while remaining connected.
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