Is TextKeep safe to use with my private messages?

TextKeep is designed with privacy as a fundamental principle. The app processes all message data locally on your Mac with no cloud uploads, remote transmission, or external access to your conversations.

Local-Only Processing

When TextKeep exports your messages, all processing occurs entirely on your Mac. The app reads the local chat.db database, parses the content, reconstructs conversations, and generates export files—all without sending any data over the internet. Your message content never leaves your device during the export process.

Read-Only Access

TextKeep opens the message database in read-only mode, ensuring it cannot modify, delete, or corrupt your original message data. The Messages app continues to function normally, and your message history remains exactly as it was before export. This architecture eliminates the risk of data loss or corruption during the export process.

macOS Security Permissions

TextKeep requires "Full Disk Access" permission from macOS to read the Messages folder. This is a system-level permission that you explicitly grant through System Preferences. macOS enforces this permission at the operating system level, preventing any unauthorized access to protected folders. You can revoke this permission at any time through System Preferences > Privacy & Security.

No Analytics or Telemetry

TextKeep does not collect analytics, telemetry, or usage data about your message content, conversation participants, or export patterns. The app operates independently without connecting to remote servers for functionality beyond standard macOS software update mechanisms.

Export File Security

The exported files are saved to locations you specify on your Mac. These files are not encrypted by default—they contain readable message content in the format you chose (PDF, HTML, or text). You should store exported files securely, just as you would any sensitive personal documents. Consider using encrypted disk images or secure folders if you need additional protection for exported message archives.