One PIN.Total Emergency Protection.
Zitto's Kill Switch (Panic PIN) is your last line of defense. A single, pre-configured emergency PIN instantly wipes all your data or activates a harmless decoy account — designed for device seizure, coerced access, or any situation where seconds matter.
Designed for Real Threats
The Kill Switch exists for journalists, activists, whistleblowers, and anyone who operates in high-risk environments where forced device access is a genuine threat. Configure it as a precaution — hope you never need it.
Kill Switch Features
Full Data Wipe
Entering the Panic PIN immediately wipes all messages, contacts, and sensitive account data from the device and server.
Decoy Account Mode
Instead of wiping, the Panic PIN can switch you to a harmless decoy account — appearing normal while your real account stays hidden.
Instant Activation
The Kill Switch fires the moment you confirm the Panic PIN. No delay, no confirmation dialog — immediate action when seconds matter.
Single PIN Trigger
Configure a separate numeric PIN distinct from your standard access PIN. One entry — everything is protected.
Configurable Action
Choose between full wipe, decoy account, or a combination of privacy actions when the Panic PIN is entered.
Pairs with Dead Man Switch
Combine with the Dead Man Switch for both manual and automated emergency privacy — two layers of last-resort protection.
When the Kill Switch Matters
Device Seizure
If your device is seized during a border crossing or search, entering your Panic PIN before handing it over wipes or obscures your data instantly.
Coerced Access
If someone demands access to your messenger, the Panic PIN lets you appear to comply while actually triggering emergency privacy protection.
Theft
If your device is stolen unlocked, anyone who finds it and opens Zitto can be met with the Panic PIN prompt — eliminating access to your real data.
Preventive Measure
High-risk users such as journalists, activists, and whistleblowers can pre-configure the Kill Switch as a standard precaution.
Wipe vs. Decoy Account
Full Data Wipe
- ✓ All messages deleted immediately
- ✓ Contacts removed
- ✓ Sensitive data purged
- × Action is irreversible
Decoy Account Mode
- ✓ Switches to harmless decoy account
- ✓ Appears normal — nothing suspicious
- ✓ Real account intact and hidden
- ✓ Recoverable after the threat passes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Panic PIN?
A Panic PIN is a second, emergency PIN that is different from your regular access PIN. When entered, it doesn't unlock your account normally — it triggers your configured Kill Switch action: wiping data or switching to a decoy account.
What is the difference between "wipe" and "decoy account" mode?
Wipe mode deletes your messages, contacts, and data immediately and irreversibly. Decoy account mode logs you into a separate, empty account that appears normal — making it seem like there is nothing to hide while your real account remains intact.
Can I recover my account after a wipe?
If you triggered a wipe, the deleted data is gone. However, your account itself may be recoverable via your recovery phrase depending on what actions you configured. Decoy account mode does not affect your main account.
How do I set up a Panic PIN?
Navigate to Settings in Zitto and find the Panic PIN / Kill Switch section under Advanced Privacy. Follow the setup wizard to define your Panic PIN and choose your trigger action.
Does the Panic PIN look different to someone watching me enter it?
No. The Panic PIN is entered via the same interface as the regular PIN. There is no visible difference in the entry flow — it looks identical to a normal unlock attempt.
Is this feature available on all accounts?
The Kill Switch (Panic PIN) is a Zitto privacy feature. Check your Settings panel for current availability on your account tier.
