Mavaul FAQ

Is Mavaul a private photo vault for iOS and Android?

Yes. Mavaul is built as a private photo vault app for iOS and Android users who want strong privacy controls for private photos and videos.

Does Mavaul store my media in the cloud?

By default, no. Mavaul is local-first and designed so private gallery content remains on your device. Mavaul does not automatically sync or upload your vault, and we do not host backups.

Premium users can optionally back up their already-encrypted vault to storage they control — Dropbox, WebDAV/Nextcloud, or Files on iOS. Backups are encrypted on-device before upload, and your recovery key is required to restore on a new device.

What encryption and lock methods are used?

Mavaul uses AES-256 encryption and supports Face ID plus passcode access control.

Can I view content on another device?

Yes. Mavaul supports optional local WiFi casting for devices connected to your own network.

What is Encrypted Backup?

Encrypted Backup is an optional premium feature in Settings → Backups. Connect a provider — Dropbox, WebDAV/Nextcloud, or Save to Files on iOS — then tap Back Up Now to create a manual backup of your already-encrypted vault. Your cloud provider stores ciphertext, not readable vault content. Mavaul does not host backups.

To restore, start with an empty vault, pick your backup source, enter your recovery key, and set a new passcode. Keep the app open while a backup runs.

What is Email Recovery?

Email Recovery is an optional premium feature that gives you a safety net if you forget your passcode. When you enable it, you save your email address in the app and Mavaul securely sends your 24-character recovery key to that address. If you forget your passcode later, you can request the key to be emailed again — even when the app is locked — then enter it manually to regain access and set a new passcode.

The recovery key is never stored long-term on our servers, emails are sent as transactional messages with no tracking, and the vault does not unlock automatically from an email. You must still enter the key yourself.

What happens if I forget my passcode?

Without Email Recovery enabled, Mavaul cannot help you regain access — your vault data stays encrypted on your device and we do not hold your keys. If you have Email Recovery enabled with an active premium subscription, you can request your recovery key by email, enter it in the app, and create a new passcode.

Where can I read legal terms and privacy details?

See Terms of Use and Privacy for full policy details.