Guardian Project

The Guardian Project creates open-source apps and libraries that empower users to communicate securely on mobile devices in hostile environments.

Main Activities:

Mobile privacy tools, Tor integration, Secure camera apps, Circumvention technologies, Support for journalists and activists

The Guardian Project is a collective of developers and activists focused on mobile security and privacy. It produces open-source apps that bring strong encryption and anonymity to Android, including Orbot (Tor on Android), ObscuraCam, and more. Their tools are designed for real-world use by journalists, activists, and human rights workers.

Key Activities:
– Development of Orbot, ObscuraCam, PixelKnot, and secure communications libraries
– Integration of Tor with Android apps
– Collaboration with newsrooms and NGOs on mobile security
– Development of training materials and usability research

Partnerships / Collaborations:
Works with Tor Project, OTF, WITNESS, and academic institutions.

Governance Model:
Informal collective with transparent development process; grant and donation funded.

Self-hostable / Auditable:
Yes – all software is open-source and available on GitHub or F-Droid.

Contact / Engagement Channels:
– Website: https://guardianproject.info
– GitHub: https://github.com/guardianproject
– Mastodon: @guardianproject@mastodon.social

Activity Level:
Medium to High – Active maintenance on core apps and libraries.

Organizational Structure:
Developer collective / community initiative

Founding Year / Age:
2009

Hosting/Funding Independence:
Grants from nonprofits; no corporate backing.

Primary Regions / Languages:
Global focus; Android-only apps

Associated Tools / Outputs:
Orbot, ObscuraCam, PixelKnot, IOCipher, ChatSecure contributions