Since 2017, we've investigated
cyber threats & helped people
defend against surveillance.
Since 2017, we've investigated
cyber threats & helped people
defend against surveillance.
Digital devices collect vast amounts of personal data. We document how this leads to privacy harm and explore tools to resist surveillance, especially in mobile ecosystems plagued by hidden trackers.
We lead workshops, teach privacy and cybersecurity, and develop free and open source software for Yale such as a collaborative document editor and secure password generator. Our remote events host global privacy experts.
We organize community walking events where we contribute to crowdsourced maps by documenting cameras, license plate readers, "shot spotters" and other monitoring systems in public spaces.
Date: April 23, 2025
Time: 1:00 - 3:00pm EST
We’re excited to launch our new Resilient Privacy Program with updated training materials. Join us for a hands-on event as we unveil new strategies to help communities resist surveillance and protect their digital lives.
Date: TBD May 2025
Time: TBD
Want to learn about the future of digital privacy? Join us online to discuss recent developments in emerging privacy and anonymity technologies, with presentations by the builders and architects.
Privacy Lab is a research and education initiative of the Information Society Project at Yale Law School. Since 2017, we have investigated threats to digital privacy and security through technical analysis, collaboration with journalists, and public engagement. We examine how surveillance systems, from smartphone trackers to urban monitoring infrastructure, impact human rights and democratic participation. Our work includes developing and maintaining free and open source tools, hosting public events, and offering technical expertise to scholars, privacy advocates, and students at Yale and beyond.
Rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration, Privacy Lab serves as a bridge between law, technology, and civil liberties. We train participants in the practical use of privacy-preserving tools and conduct workshops on digital self-defense. From hosting infrastructure such as Tor relays to leading hackathons in New Haven, our events programming is both critical and applied. Privacy Lab's long-term mission is to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify and protect against surveillance. We are guided by a commitment to digital transparency, autonomy, and free expression. Privacy Lab is a member of the Electronic Frontier Alliance, a participant in the Fight For The Future network, and a signatory of the Copenhagen Letter.
Founder & Research Fellow
[email protected]
Founder of the Privacy Lab initiative and Research Fellow at Yale ISP. Sean builds tech at the crossroads of privacy and security. As a Lecturer at Yale Law School, he developed the Cybersecurity course with Scott J. Shapiro.
Trainer & Resident Fellow
[email protected]
Resident Fellow at Yale ISP and the Floyd Abrams Institute for Freedom of Expression. In his role at the Abrams Institute, Isaac studies the constitutional protections for journalistic freedom under the Press Clause.
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