Privacy

Last updated 15 November 2026

HawaDrop collects nothing about you. There is no account, no server storing your files, and no record of who you shared with. Files travel directly from your phone to the other person's phone.

What we collect

Nothing. We operate no servers that receive your data, so there is no database with your name in it, no analytics, no advertising identifiers and no third-party tracking of any kind.

What stays on your phone

The name you choose. Shown to people near you so they know who is offering a file. You can change it at any time in Settings.
A random identifier. Created when you first open the app and not derived from your phone, your number or anything about you. It exists so that blocking someone keeps working even if they change their name.
People you have blocked. Kept on your phone and never shared.
Files you receive, saved to the HawaDrop folder in the Files app.

All of this is removed when you delete the app.

How files travel

When you send a file, your phone connects directly to the other person's phone over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, in the same way AirDrop does. The connection is encrypted, no router or internet connection is involved, and the file is never uploaded anywhere. HawaDrop works with no signal at all.

What other people can see

While the app is open, people nearby who also have it open can see the name you chose. They cannot see your phone number, your contacts, your photos, or anything else, and they cannot send you a file without you accepting it first.

You are only visible while the app is open and on screen. Close it and you disappear.

Camera and photos

HawaDrop asks for the camera only when you choose to take a photo, and for your photo library only when you choose one to send. It does not browse, scan or upload your library, and the only photos it touches are the ones you pick.

Local network

iOS asks your permission for HawaDrop to use the local network. This is what allows your phone to find and connect to the phone next to you. It is not used to reach the internet.

Reporting someone

If you report someone, they are blocked on your phone straight away and an email is prepared for you to send us. We receive only what you choose to put in that email, along with the random identifier of the person you reported. We hold no record of either of you otherwise.

Children

HawaDrop is not intended for children under 13 and we do not knowingly collect anything from anyone, of any age.

Changes

If this policy changes, the date above changes with it. Material changes will be noted in the app.

Contact

Questions about privacy: [email protected]