COVIDSafe

COVIDSafe is a digital contact tracing app announced by the Australian Government on 14 April 2020 to help combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The app was released for free download on 26 April 2020. The COVIDSafe app is part of the government's initiative to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Overview

COVIDSafe uses Bluetooth technology to record contact events between users, storing this information on the user's device. The app records the date, time, distance, and duration of the contact, and the other user's reference code. The information is encrypted and stored on the user's phone for 21 days, after which it is deleted.

Privacy and Security

The COVIDSafe app has been designed with a strong focus on privacy and security. The app does not track location, but rather uses Bluetooth signals to log when users are in close proximity to each other. The data collected by the app is encrypted and stored locally on the user's device. It can only be accessed by state and territory health officials if a user tests positive for COVID-19.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of the COVIDSafe app is dependent on the number of people who download and use the app. The Australian Government has stated that at least 40% of the population needs to use the app for it to be effective.

Criticism

Despite its potential benefits, the COVIDSafe app has faced criticism. Concerns have been raised about the app's privacy and security, its effectiveness, and the government's transparency about the app.

See also

• Digital contact tracing
• COVID-19 pandemic in Australia
• COVID-19 apps