Lightwaves - EU-Sovereignty Audit for Websites

What it does

Lightwaves offers the first EU-Sovereignty Audit for websites, a tool designed to assess and ensure compliance with EU digital sovereignty standards. The audit checks websites for dependencies on non-EU services, data storage locations, and other factors that may compromise digital sovereignty. The service is currently in revision after an initial launch on Hacker News revealed imprecise results.

Who it is for

The audit is aimed at businesses and organizations operating within the EU that want to verify their website's compliance with EU digital sovereignty principles. This includes companies concerned about data privacy, regulatory compliance, and reducing reliance on non-EU technology providers.

Why it matters

Digital sovereignty is a growing concern in the EU, with regulations like GDPR emphasizing data protection and local control. Lightwaves' audit provides a practical tool for businesses to identify and address potential sovereignty issues, helping them align with EU values and legal requirements. The founders emphasize that they built the audit because they believe digital sovereignty matters, not for commercial gain.

Launch signal

The audit was launched on Hacker News as a Show HN post, where it reached the front page for 3 hours. The response was overwhelming but critical: the HN community stress-tested the tool and found imprecise results. The two-person team from Austria took the feedback seriously, worked through nights to improve the audit, and then temporarily shut down the website to revise it thoroughly. This demonstrates a commitment to quality over hype.

Brand and naming

The name "Lightwaves" suggests speed, clarity, and digital connectivity, aligning with the tech-focused audit service. The tagline "EU-Sovereignty Audit for Websites" is direct and descriptive, clearly communicating the product's purpose. The brand positions itself as a small, principled team from Austria, contrasting with VC-funded startups, which may appeal to users who value authenticity and European values.