Your data belongs to you.
Dusty was built on the principle that system optimization shouldn't require compromising your privacy. Our policy is simple: we never see your files.
Introduction
At Dusty, we build tools for macOS users who value performance and security. This Privacy Policy describes how Dusty handles information when you use our desktop application. Unlike most "cloud-optimized" tools, Dusty is a sovereign application. We believe your computer should work for you, not against your privacy.
Local-Only Scanning
Every scan initiated by Dusty happens entirely on your machine. We do not upload file lists, metadata, or directory structures to any server. Your file hierarchy is yours alone.
What Dusty Sees
- File sizes and system paths
- Creation & access dates
- Standard system cache locations
What We See
Absolutely Nothing.
No file data ever leaves your local filesystem.
Keychain Encryption
If you choose to save specific cleanup configurations or application preferences, Dusty utilizes the **macOS Native Keychain**. We leverage Apple's secure hardware enclave for maximum security.
AES-256 Encryption
Hardware-level protection standard.
No Cloud Sync
Settings stay on your device.
User Control
Revoke permissions instantly.
AI Reasoning & Fair Use Policy
Dusty uses Google Gemini 1.5 Flash to explain why certain files exist and whether they are safe to remove. We adhere to a strict zero-content data policy:
Metadata-Only Transmission
Only file paths, file category labels, and size metadata are sent to the AI. Document contents, code files, database rows, chats, and images are never read or uploaded.
10 Daily AI Scans (Fair Use)
Our managed cloud proxy includes 10 AI scan explanations per day per device. For unlimited scans, users can connect their own free Google Gemini API key in app Settings.
Zero Telemetry
We do not use third-party analytics trackers like Google Analytics or Mixpanel. We believe in building better software through user feedback, not through silent surveillance. We don't know how many times you open the app, which buttons you click, or what your hardware specs are.
// Hardcoded privacy defaults
const TELEMETRY_ENABLED = false;
const CRASH_REPORTING = false;
Updates & Security
Dusty checks for updates periodically by pinging our secure GitHub repository. This request sends no personal identifiers and only receives version metadata. All binaries are Apple-notarized to ensure they haven't been tampered with and are safe for execution on macOS.
Questions about your privacy?
If you have any questions or want to learn more about our commitment to local-first software, our engineering team is happy to chat.