Security at VaultChat
VaultChat is engineered so that your conversations stay yours — verifiable cryptography, zero-knowledge design, and the smallest possible data footprint.
1. Encryption Standard
VaultChat implements the Signal Protocol, the same end-to-end encryption standard trusted by Signal and WhatsApp.
- X3DH (Extended Triple Diffie-Hellman): Establishes a shared secret between two parties on first contact, even when one party is offline.
- Double Ratchet Algorithm: Generates a new encryption key for every single message, providing forward secrecy and post-compromise security.
- AES-256-GCM: Authenticated symmetric encryption for message payloads.
- Curve25519: Elliptic-curve key agreement for fast, modern key exchange.
2. Zero-Knowledge Architecture
VaultChat is built so we cannot read your messages — even if compelled to. Encryption and decryption happen entirely on your device, and your private keys never leave it.
- Private keys are generated and stored on your device only.
- Messages are encrypted before they ever touch our servers.
- We see ciphertext — never plaintext, never your keys.
- Backups are encrypted with your personal PIN before upload.
3. Infrastructure
We use a small, audited set of providers — each scoped to the minimum role needed to deliver the service.
- Supabase: Secure, managed backend for account metadata and encrypted message routing. Protected by row-level security policies and isolated per user.
- Twilio: Encrypted signaling for SMS verification and secure download links. Twilio never has access to your message content or keys.
- Apple & Google Push Services: Used solely to wake your device. Notification payloads never include message content.
4. Data Retention
We collect the minimum data needed to operate — and we keep it for the shortest time possible.
- Message content: Stored only on your device. Deleted from our relay servers the moment it is delivered.
- Undelivered messages: Held encrypted on relay servers for up to 30 days, then permanently purged.
- Server logs: Retained for 30 days for security and abuse prevention, then deleted.
- Account metadata: Retained only while your account is active. Deleting your account purges all associated data within 30 days.
- Phone number: Stored hashed where possible; used only for verification and account recovery.
5. Audits & Transparency
VaultChat undergoes independent security review and adheres to SOC 2 Type II controls. Found a vulnerability? Email security@vaultchat.co. Responsible disclosures are acknowledged within 48 hours.