Haven: Keep Watch (BETA)

Haven is an Android application designed to provide users with a means of protecting their personal spaces and possessions while maintaining their privacy. The app is particularly beneficial for individuals such as investigative journalists, human rights defenders, and those at risk of forced disappearance. By leveraging the on-device sensors of any Android phone, Haven transforms the device into a vigilant motion, sound, vibration, and light detector, effectively monitoring physical spaces for unexpected guests or intruders. Users can download Haven to enhance their personal security.

The functionality of Haven centers around its ability to utilize various sensors integrated within smartphones. The app monitors several parameters to detect changes that may indicate an intrusion. The accelerometer tracks motion and vibration, while the camera captures visible motion through either the front or back lens. Additionally, the microphone is employed to listen for sounds in the environment, and the ambient light sensor detects variations in light levels. The power sensor is also significant, as it can identify when the device is unplugged or experiences power loss or shutdown.

When an intrusion event is detected, Haven provides secure notifications to the user, ensuring they are promptly informed of any potential threats. Users can choose to position their device in a visible location to capture motion or place it discreetly to monitor sounds. The app only records images and sounds when it is triggered by changes detected through its sensors, thereby preserving privacy. All recorded data is stored locally on the device, allowing users to review event logs remotely or at their convenience.

Haven's design emphasizes user control and security. The app places a strong focus on protecting sensitive information and personal privacy, employing technologies such as Signal and Tor to secure communications. This integration allows users to communicate securely while using the app, further enhancing their safety.

The ability to monitor multiple environmental factors simultaneously makes Haven a versatile tool for personal security. Users can set up the app to alert them about any unusual activity, whether it be motion detected by the camera or changes in sound levels. The real-time notifications ensure that users are always aware of their surroundings, which can be particularly crucial in high-risk situations.

Another important aspect of Haven is its accessibility. The app is available for anyone with an Android device, making it easy for users to download and start utilizing its features without needing specialized equipment. This accessibility contributes to its goal of providing a layer of protection for those who may be vulnerable or at risk.

The event logging feature serves as an important tool for users to keep track of any incidents. The logs contain detailed information about each detected event, including the time and type of change that triggered the recording. This information can be essential for users who need to document incidents or provide evidence of potential threats.

User privacy is a top priority for Haven, and its design reflects a commitment to safeguarding personal data. By storing all recordings locally and not transmitting data to external servers, users can have peace of mind knowing that their information remains secure. The choice of what data to record and when to record it is entirely in the hands of the user, allowing for a tailored security experience.

In addition to its primary functions, Haven encourages users to engage with the app in a way that suits their individual needs. The flexibility in setting up the monitoring parameters allows users to customize their experience based on their unique circumstances. Whether monitoring a home, workspace, or any other personal space, users can adjust the settings to maximize their security.

Haven also serves a broader purpose by fostering a sense of community among its users. Designed for those who may be facing threats, the app contributes to a collective effort to enhance personal safety. By empowering individuals to take control of their security, Haven promotes resilience and awareness in vulnerable populations.

As individuals continue to seek tools for better personal security, Haven stands out as a reliable option. Its use of smartphone technology to monitor environments, coupled with a commitment to user privacy and security, positions it as a valuable resource for those in need. Users looking to enhance their safety can explore Haven and download it to begin utilizing its features for improved personal protection.

For additional information about Haven and how to support its ongoing development, you can visit the Freedom of the Press Foundation's website: https://freedom.press/donate-support-haven-open-source-project.