Is BeReal Safe? Security Review
3/5
Overall Safety Score
★
★
★
★
★
Verdict: BeReal is relatively low-risk compared to major social platforms, but its dual-camera capture and location data create unique privacy considerations. The Voodoo acquisition introduces uncertainty about future data practices.
BeReal is a photo-sharing app that prompts users to take a photo once per day using both front and back cameras simultaneously. Acquired by French gaming company Voodoo in 2024, it emphasizes authenticity over curation.
Security Ratings Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption | 3/5 | |
| Privacy | 3/5 | |
| Track Record | 3/5 |
Security Features
- Phone number verification
- Content visible only to friends by default
- Photos expire from Discovery feed
- No public follower counts or popularity metrics
Privacy Concerns
- Dual-camera capture collects background environment data
- Location data attached to posts by default
- Acquisition by Voodoo (gaming/ad company) raises data monetization questions
- Limited transparency about data retention
Past Security Incidents
- No major data breaches disclosed as of 2025
- 2022 security researcher found API vulnerabilities that could expose user data (patched)
How to Stay Safe Using BeReal
- Disable location tagging on posts
- Keep account set to friends only
- Be mindful of what's visible in both camera views
- Review privacy policy changes following the Voodoo acquisition
Safer Alternatives
- Instagram Close Friends (similar concept within Instagram)
- Snapchat (ephemeral sharing)
Last updated: February 10, 2026