Abstract: A personal security system includes a personal security device which a user can use to call for help. The user triggers the device to go into a panic state by interacting with the device in particular ways, some of which are covert. Each interaction has a meaning which the device assigns a different meaning that signifies the user needs help. When in the panic state, the device can send a notification to a security node associated with the device; and the device can capture data (such as sounds and images) and send that data to the security node. The security node in turn can render aid based on this information. Advantageously, the user can call for help quickly, easily, and some instances discretely.