Features of the App:
Contact Tracing: SwissCovid enhances the conventional contact tracing efforts of the cantons by anonymously measuring encounters with other smartphones that have the app installed. It records situations where the risk of virus transmission is highest.
Minimum Technical Requirements: To use the app, your smartphone must run on Android 6 or a newer operating system.
Encounters Function: Utilizing Bluetooth technology, the app transmits encrypted IDs, or checksums, to gauge the duration and proximity of encounters with other smartphones. These checksums are automatically deleted from your device after two weeks, ensuring your data is not retained indefinitely.
Check-in Function: The app allows users to check into specific locations or events. If there's a risk of infection at these places, users are promptly notified. Only your presence is recorded, maintaining your privacy.
Notification: Upon testing positive for the coronavirus, users receive a Covid code that activates the notification feature in their app. This alerts other app users who were in close contact or checked into the same location during the infectious period. Privacy remains a top priority throughout this process.
Privacy Protection: All data collected by the app is stored exclusively on your smartphone. No personal or location data is transmitted to any central storage or server, ensuring your privacy. The app's operations are confined to Switzerland and are subject to Swiss law.
Conclusion:
SwissCovid is Switzerland's official contact tracing app, instrumental in containing the spread of the new coronavirus. It complements traditional contact tracing and promotes voluntary participation from the public. With features like encounter tracking, location check-ins, notifications of potential exposure, and robust privacy protection, SwissCovid is a vital tool in our fight against the virus. By using the app and following hygiene and social distancing protocols, we can effectively manage and reduce the spread of the virus.
