What is Empeopled?

Empeopled is an open-source, decentralized social network that places a strong emphasis on user privacy and data ownership. Launched in 2015, Empeopled seeks to provide an alternative to mainstream social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, which have faced ongoing criticism over issues like data mining, algorithmic filtering, and content moderation policies.

At the core of Empeopled's platform is user control. All content published to Empeopled is encrypted and users hold the decryption keys. This allows them to take their data with them if they choose to leave the network. Empeopled also does not employ algorithms to curate, filter or limit what users see. Everything is displayed in chronological order in a Facebook-style newsfeed.

Like most social networks, Empeopled allows users to create a profile, connect with friends and family, share status updates, photos, links, events, and private messages. It also features public groups based around common interests. However, it purposefully lacks features some may take for granted on other platforms, such as animated GIF comments or a slick, polished interface. The focus is entirely on function over form.

As an open-source platform built on Secure Scuttlebutt protocols, Empeopled is developed by a community of volunteers. This collaborative approach allows for transparency in the ongoing development of the network to prioritize user privacy. The codebase is available on GitHub.

Official Links