git-annex users entrust it with data that is often intensively private. Here's some things to know about how to maintain your privacy while using git-annex.

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repository contents

In general, anyone who can clone a git repository gets the ability to see all current and past filenames in the repository, and their contents. It's best to assume this also holds true for git-annex, as a general rule.

There are some obvious exceptions: If you git annex dropunused old content from all your repositories, then it's gone. If you git annex move files to a offline drive then only those with physical access can see their content. (The names of the files are still visible to anyone with a clone of the repository.)

git-annex can encrypt data stored in special remotes. This allows you to store files in the cloud without exposing their file names, or their contents. See encryption for details.

When using the shared encryption method, the encryption key gets stored in git, and so anyone who has a clone of your repository can decrypt files from the encrypted special remote.

When using encryption with a GPG key or keys, only those with access to the GPG key can decrypt the content of files stored in an encrypted special remote.

bug reporting

When you file a bug report on git-annex, you may need to provide debugging output or details about your repository. In general, git-annex does not sanitize --debug output at all, so it may include the names of files or other repository details. You should review any debug or other output you post, and feel free to remove identifying information.

Note that the git-annex assistant does sanitize XMPP protocol information logged when debugging is enabled.

If you prefer not to post information publicaly, you can send a GPG encrypted mail to Joey Hess id@joeyh.name (gpg key ID 2512E3C7). Or you can post a public bug report, and send a followup email with private details.