MapSafe QGIS plugin: a complete open-source geoprivacy tool for desktop GIS applications

In recent years, integrating geoprivacy functions into GIS applications has become crucial due to increasing data breaches and the need to comply with international guidelines. This paper introduces the MapSafe geoprivacy plugin, a comprehensive tool that allows scientists and practitioners to safeguard and verify sensitive geospatial data directly within their desktop GIS applications, where most geospatial data workflows – from creation to analysis – take place, without relying on centralised third parties. The QGIS plugin enables data owners to share anonymised datasets with users having lesser privileges using donut masking or hexagonal binning, securely protect the original dataset with robust encryption and public-key passphrase protection, and notarise the encrypted file’s details on the blockchain, allowing recipients to verify its integrity before decrypting and displaying. MapSafe expands upon its browser-based predecessor, bringing these capabilities to desktop GIS applications, handling larger datasets, and empowering individuals and organisations to meet data protection regulations with ease. The user interface prioritises usability, with clear documentation, tooltips, and video guide included to educate about the features. Our aim is for this desktop plugin to make geoprivacy more accessible to users with different GIS backgrounds.