Last updated: October 16, 2026
VocalWitness is built with privacy as a core design principle. We collect only what is necessary to operate a public square for sealed citizen reports, and we give you clear control over what is visible.
We process the following categories of information:
We do not sell personal data. We do not use advertising trackers on sealed testimony.
• To operate the public square, store sealed reports, and enable verification tools.
• To prevent spam, bots, and abuse (including phone verification for higher tiers).
• To provide optional features such as the Independent Citizen Press Credential.
• To respond to legal requests when required by applicable law.
We never use payment for a Press Credential or voluntary support to change your trust rank or voting power.
Location and device metadata can be stripped in the browser before media is uploaded when privacy mode is active.
You can hide your real name and location from public profile views while still participating.
Media and text can be fingerprinted with SHA-256 on your device so others can verify integrity without trusting us blindly.
Instantly clears local browser storage on this device and redirects away from the site.
Data is stored on Google Firebase and protected at the edge by Cloudflare. Operators retain administrative access necessary for moderation, security, and legal compliance.
Sealed public reports are designed to remain part of the permanent public record. Account-level data (email, phone verification status, etc.) is not published on the sealed ledger as your identity.
We do not sell your data to third parties for advertising.
• You control what you publish and whether to enable Privacy Shield.
• You can request account-related changes or deletion subject to legal and operational limits (sealed public records cannot be quietly erased by ordinary users).
• You can clear local data on any device using Quick Exit.
• For questions about your data, use the contact / support options on the main site.
VocalWitness is not directed at children under 13 (or the applicable age in your jurisdiction). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The “Last updated” date at the top will change when we do. Continued use of the platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
For privacy-related questions, use the Support options available on the main VocalWitness site or the contact methods listed in the repository / about page.