ForeverScout
FAQ
Is it allowed?
The addon only uses the game's normal addon API and stores data in SavedVariables, like every addon. The Windows client only reads and writes files in the game folder (AddOns, SavedVariables and the hotfix cache) – it does not read game memory or automate anything, just like ordinary addon managers.
What is collected?
NPC ids, names, subtitles, levels, whether they are friendly to your faction, where they stand (map-%), what trainers teach and vendors sell, quests, world objects, loot and flight points. The client also sends the game's hotfix cache (DBCache.bin).
What is not collected?
No account name, character name, realm, chat, friends list or anything from other addons. The account name appears in the file's path – it is never sent, and text that looks like paths or e-mail is dropped by the server.
Exactly what the app reads
The Windows app only reads: in the WoW folder, WTF\Account\*\SavedVariables\ForeverScout.lua and Cache\ADB\*\DBCache.bin, plus the Interface\AddOns\ForeverScout folder (which it also writes to when installing the addon); its own folder %APPDATA%\ForeverScout; and a single registry value – Blizzard's InstallPath for World of Warcraft, to find the game. It only talks to guide.wow4ever.se. It does not read the process list, Battle.net.config or anything else. The source code is open. In the app, the menu item Show what is sent shows exactly what would be uploaded, and a local upload log shows what has been sent. The server rejects the whole file if it contains anything other than ForeverScoutDB.
When is something confirmed?
When at least two different players have reported it – from different connections, or three players if everyone is behind the same IP (like at a LAN). Alliance and Horde count the same. For NPCs the positions must also be within 2 map-% on the same map – an outlier doesn't count.
Why do some NPCs say Classic data?
Until someone reports an NPC we show Classic 1.12 data (CMaNGOS). The label tells you what to trust: Confirmed in Forever, 1 report (not confirmed yet) or Classic data.
Can I upload the same file several times?
Yes. The server recognises what it already received, so you get neither duplicate reports nor duplicate points.
I play on several computers.
Create a code under Link the Windows client and enter it on the other computer, so everything counts for the same name.
How do I delete my contribution?
At the bottom of the Contribute page there is Delete my contribution. It removes name, keys, reports and points immediately.
Why is my name on an NPC page?
Whoever first reported something and those who confirmed it are credited next to it, with the day but never the time. If you don't want to be shown, choose Anonymous contributor under Contribute – then only the number of players is shown. ★ First reported is only shown once something is confirmed, and passes to the next confirmer if the first person's reports are removed.