Inspiration
We wanted to create a safe, efficient way for people to reconnect with lost items on campus. Traditional “lost and found” boards are slow, unreliable, and often lack privacy. Traceback solves this by putting control in the hands of both the finder and the owner.
What it does
Traceback allows users to post lost or found items, provide descriptions, and include a secret question to verify ownership. Users can search for items by type, location, or date, and claim items securely if they answer correctly. It’s designed to make reuniting with lost belongings fast, private, and stress-free.
How we built it
Frontend: React.js for a dynamic dashboard and responsive interface. Backend: Node.js with Express for API endpoints, handling item posts, searches, and claims. Database: SQLite for lightweight storage of items, users, and verification questions. Security: Secret question mechanism ensures items are claimed by the rightful owner.
Challenges we ran into
Designing a verification system that is secure but simple. Handling real-time updates so that new found items appear instantly on the dashboard. Structuring the database to handle multiple item types and associated metadata efficiently.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
Successfully implemented the secret question verification system. Built a user-friendly interface that makes posting and searching for items straightforward. Created a secure and scalable backend that could support a real campus-wide deployment
What we learned
How to integrate frontend and backend smoothly for real-time updates. Best practices for securely handling user-submitted data. How to design a verification flow that balances security and usability.
What's next for TraceBack
Add notifications so users are alerted when a potential match is found. Expand to a mobile app for easier on-the-go posting and searching. Implement advanced search filters (like color, date range, or location radius) to make finding items even faster. Explore campus-wide partnerships to scale Traceback beyond ECU.
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