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Getting Started

Welcome to Vauchi! This guide will help you set up your identity and exchange your first contact.


Creating Your Identity

When you first open Vauchi, you'll be asked to create your identity:

  1. Enter your display name — This is how contacts will see you
  2. Tap "Create Identity" — Vauchi generates your unique cryptographic identity

Your identity includes:

  • A unique public ID (like a fingerprint for your identity)
  • Cryptographic keys for secure communication
  • Your display name

Important

Your identity keys are stored only on your device. There's no account to log into — your device IS your account.


Understanding the Home Screen

After creating your identity, you'll see:

  • Your Card — The contact information you've added
  • Fields — Individual pieces of contact info (email, phone, etc.)
  • Navigation — Access to Contacts, Exchange, and Settings

Adding Your Contact Information

Your contact card contains fields — pieces of information you want to share with contacts.

To Add a Field

  1. Tap the + button on the home screen
  2. Select a field type:
    • Email — Email addresses
    • Phone — Phone numbers
    • Website — URLs and websites
    • Address — Physical addresses
    • Social — Social media profiles
    • Custom — Any other information
  3. Enter a label (e.g., "Work", "Personal")
  4. Enter the value (e.g., "john@example.com")
  5. Tap Add

Your First Exchange

Ready to exchange contacts? Here's the quick version:

  1. Meet someone in person
  2. Open the Exchange tab
  3. Show them your QR code
  4. Scan their QR code
  5. Done — you're connected!

For detailed instructions, see the Exchange Contacts guide.


What's Next?

Now that you're set up:


Tips for New Users

Security Tips

  1. Create a backup as soon as you set up
  2. Verify important contacts in person
  3. Use a strong backup password (passphrase recommended)

Privacy Tips

  1. Review visibility settings when adding new fields
  2. Use specific labels to control field visibility precisely
  3. Check what contacts can see periodically

Organization Tips

  1. Use descriptive labels (e.g., "Work Email", "Personal Cell")
  2. Update outdated information promptly

Need Help?

  • Check the FAQ for common questions
  • See features for detailed explanations
  • Read the how-to guides for step-by-step instructions