Support
Privacy Scanner runs entirely on your Mac, so most questions are about how a feature works, not about accounts or the cloud (there are none). Here's how to get help, and answers to the most common questions.
Get in touch
Email support@privacyscanner.app. Include your macOS version and, if it's about a specific file type, an example (with the sensitive parts removed). One person reads every message.
Frequently asked questions
Does anything leave my Mac?
No. Privacy Scanner has no network entitlement, the macOS sandbox prevents it from reaching the internet. Scanning, detection, and cleaning all run locally.
What's free, and what's paid?
Scanning, all detection (including AI content markers), your Privacy Score, history, and scheduled scans are free. The one-time purchase unlocks cleaning (strip metadata, redact IDs, export clean copies) and signed privacy and AI-inventory reports.
Does it detect AI-generated images?
It reads the provenance markers that AI tools and cameras embed, C2PA Content Credentials, IPTC digital source type, and generator metadata. It does not analyze pixels or guess, so it flags what carries a marker. Identification is best-effort and is not a legal certification of authorship.
How do I unlock the full version?
Open Settings in the app and choose Unlock Full Version, or use the upgrade prompt when you run a fix. It's a one-time purchase through the App Store, no subscription and no account.
I already bought it. How do I restore it on another Mac?
Sign in to the same Apple Account and choose Restore Purchase in Settings. The full version is tied to your Apple Account.
How do I redeem an offer code?
In the app, open Settings and choose Redeem Offer Code, then enter the code. You can also open the redemption link on your Mac and it will unlock the full version.
Can I verify an exported report myself?
Yes. Signed PDF reports and their sidecar files verify with the standard shasum and openssl command-line tools, so you don't have to trust us, you can check the signature.
Where is my data stored?
Locally, in Privacy Scanner's own container on your Mac. Scan results and the tamper-evident audit log never leave your device.
The Finder extension isn't showing up.
Enable it in System Settings, Privacy & Security, Extensions, Finder. macOS keeps third-party Finder extensions off until you turn them on.
A scan isn't finding my files.
macOS asks for permission before an app can read certain folders (Desktop, Documents, Photos). Grant access when prompted, or add the folder again from the app.
System requirements
macOS 14 or later. Available in 12 languages.