From f3dd2e965621719b4b5f7d58d74ca01cda21ac5d Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: anoracleofra-code Date: Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:35:05 -0600 Subject: [PATCH] docs: add "Why This Exists" section and soften disclaimer Positions the project as a public data aggregator, not a surveillance tool. Clarifies that no data is collected or transmitted beyond rendering. Co-Authored-By: Claude Opus 4.6 Former-commit-id: 53eb82c6104f5c061d361c71c44f8c61b7e12897 --- README.md | 20 +++++++++++++++++--- 1 file changed, 17 insertions(+), 3 deletions(-) diff --git a/README.md b/README.md index 1da3c4b..5a8fdbe 100644 --- a/README.md +++ b/README.md @@ -23,6 +23,22 @@ Built with **Next.js**, **MapLibre GL**, **FastAPI**, and **Python**, it's desig --- +## Why This Exists + +A surprising amount of global telemetry is already public: + +- Aircraft ADS-B broadcasts +- Maritime AIS signals +- Satellite orbital data +- Earthquake sensors +- Environmental monitoring networks + +This data is scattered across dozens of tools and APIs. ShadowBroker began as an experiment to see what the world looks like when these signals are combined into a single interface. + +The project does not introduce new surveillance capabilities — it visualizes existing public datasets. It is fully open-source so anyone can audit exactly what data is accessed and how. No data is collected, stored, or transmitted beyond what is needed to render the dashboard in your browser. + +--- + ## Interesting Use Cases * Track everything from Air Force One to the private jets of billionaires, dictators, and corporations @@ -549,9 +565,7 @@ LTA_ACCOUNT_KEY=your_lta_key # Singapore CCTV cameras ## ⚠️ Disclaimer -This is an **educational and research tool** built entirely on publicly available, open-source intelligence (OSINT) data. No classified, restricted, or non-public data sources are used. Carrier positions are estimates based on public reporting. The military-themed UI is purely aesthetic. - -**Do not use this tool for any operational, military, or intelligence purpose.** +This tool is built entirely on publicly available, open-source intelligence (OSINT) data. No classified, restricted, or non-public data is used. Carrier positions are estimates based on public reporting. The military-themed UI is purely aesthetic. ---