Show HN: DeadDrop – Tiny tool to share files anonymously

[Rayid]

Hey HN!

I built a small project called DeadDrop – a tool for sharing files without needing logins or accounts. You just enter a name and a passkey, and your file is encrypted in the browser using AES-GCM. Only the encrypted file is uploaded. On the other side, anyone with the same name + key can retrieve and decrypt it client-side.

The server never sees the passkey or the raw file – it's fully privacy-first.

Use cases: quick transfers between devices, sharing sensitive files with collaborators, or just simple temp file drops without any tracking.

Would love your feedback or suggestions!

Link: https://deadrop.updo.in

[apitman]

I recommend using a different word than "passkey". That has a specific meaning that's different than how it's used here. Password or passphrase would be more appropriate.

[cedws]

Be careful hosting a service like this. You will have feds knocking on your door in no time.

[pogue]

What's the file size limits? How long does the file stay there?

And most importantly, how can we trust it's private/anonymous/encrypted?

[kratosthegod]

Well done! I appreciate the minimal, no-login approach. It feels like a modern and more lightweight alternative to (late)Firefox Send.

[Rayid]

Sorry, but the CORRECT LINK IS: https://deaddrop.space

[hschne]

I launched something similar a year ago, funnily with an almost identical name.

Different tech stack and slightly different features though. Super cool to see more other tools in the space!

https://datadeaddrop.com/

[Rayid]

That's awesome — love seeing others thinking in the same direction! Just checked out your project, and it’s really well put together. Funny how we both ended up with such similar names and ideas. I hadn’t seen yours before launching mine, but it’s super cool to see how you approached it differently with those extra features. More privacy-focused tools in the space is always a win!

[aiiizzz]

Firefox Send flashbacks. It was shut down because it became a malware hotbed.

[Rayid]

I totally get the concern, and I am aware of what happened with Firefox Send. DeadDrop is still in its early stages, but I’m actively thinking about ways to prevent any unethical use of the platform as it grows.

[Andrew091]

I think the vision is pretty optimistic.. It would help a lot in rapid file transfer for those who are working in documentation sectors.. It would also help school or college students for their ppt sharing without a physical usb... Nice initiative

[Rayid]

Thanks! Glad you see the potential — that’s exactly the goal, to make file sharing as quick and simple as possible. No USBs, no hassle. Appreciate the feedback!

[eipi10_hn]

Thanks for the project. Does the tool have expiry time for the files?

[Rayid]

Yup! When you upload a file, you can choose how long it stays — anywhere from 1 day to 30 days. After that, it's automatically deleted from the server.