Join a nationwide scientific study that explores how the Internet shapes modern life through secure, privacy-preserving data collection

The National Internet Observatory (NIO) invites U.S. residents to contribute to a large-scale scientific research project designed to understand real online behavior. This privacy-focused data collection app helps researchers study how people interact with the Internet in everyday life, supporting insights into digital well-being and online information flows.

Using a careful two-step process, the NIO gathers participant data and then provides researchers with secure, non-identifiable access for analysis. Participation is open to individuals from every background, and all data is handled using strict privacy protections. This mobile research data monitoring app meets regulatory standards and supports region-specific surveys to deepen scientific understanding.

After providing consent, participants allow the NIO Mobile app to collect specific data types used only for research purposes. All information is encrypted, securely stored, and never released with identifying details—ensuring a trustworthy experience for anyone joining this scientific internet usage study.

• Network metadata collection: Uses a VPN to gather network-level information about app communications, excluding all message or content details.
• App usage insights: Tracks how often apps are opened and the duration of use to understand digital habits.
• Location verification: Confirms participants are in the U.S. and enables region-based surveys for more accurate research findings.
• On-screen content analysis: With explicit consent, accessibility services capture posts, articles, and interaction patterns to reveal how users engage with online content.
• Strict privacy safeguards: All collected data remains on secure servers and is shared only with qualified researchers in de-identified form.