Privacy Policy

Last Updated: November 20, 2025

1. Introduction

Scholar Note ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our Service.

Privacy-First Approach: Scholar Note is designed with privacy at its core. The vast majority of your data never leaves your device.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information Stored Locally (Not Collected by Us)

The following data is stored exclusively in your browser's local storage and is never transmitted to our servers:

  • Notes content and titles
  • Audio recordings and transcriptions
  • Generated flashcards, quizzes, mind maps, and podcasts
  • Uploaded files (PDFs, audio, video)
  • User preferences and settings
  • Folder organization

2.2 Information We Collect

We collect minimal information necessary to provide authentication:

  • Account Information: Email address and password (encrypted)
  • Authentication Tokens: Session tokens for maintaining login state
  • Usage Analytics: Basic usage statistics (if Google AdSense is enabled)

2.3 Automatically Collected Information

  • Browser Information: Browser type, version, and capabilities
  • Device Information: Device type, operating system
  • IP Address: For security and fraud prevention
  • Cookies: For authentication and preferences

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for:

  • Authentication: To verify your identity and maintain your session
  • Service Delivery: To provide and maintain the Service
  • Security: To detect and prevent fraud and abuse
  • Improvement: To improve and optimize the Service
  • Communication: To send important service updates (opt-in)

4. Third-Party Services and AI Processing

4.1 Browser-Based AI (No Data Transmission)

Audio transcription uses Transformers.js, which runs entirely in your browser. No audio data is sent to external servers.

4.2 Local LLM (User-Controlled)

If you configure a local LLM (e.g., Ollama), text is sent only to your locally-running model. We have no access to this data.

4.3 Third-Party Links

The Service may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for their privacy practices.

4.4 Google AdSense

We may use Google AdSense to display advertisements. Google AdSense uses cookies to serve ads based on your prior visits to our website or other websites. You can opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google's Ads Settings.

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information. We may share information only in these limited circumstances:

  • Legal Requirements: When required by law or to respond to legal process
  • Protection: To protect our rights, property, or safety
  • Service Providers: With trusted third parties who assist in operating the Service (under strict confidentiality)
  • Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or asset sale

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your information:

  • Encryption: Passwords are hashed and encrypted
  • HTTPS: All data transmission uses secure HTTPS
  • Access Controls: Limited access to personal information
  • Browser Storage: Your notes remain in your local browser storage

Important: While we implement security measures, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. Browser-based storage can be cleared or lost if you clear your browser data.

7. Your Data Rights

You have the following rights regarding your data:

  • Access: Request a copy of your personal information
  • Correction: Update or correct your information
  • Deletion: Request deletion of your account and data
  • Export: Export your notes at any time using the export feature
  • Opt-Out: Opt out of marketing communications

To exercise these rights, please contact us.

8. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies for:

  • Essential Cookies: For authentication and core functionality
  • Preference Cookies: To remember your settings
  • Analytics Cookies: To understand how you use the Service (via Google AdSense)

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Note that disabling cookies may limit functionality.

9. Children's Privacy

The Service is not intended for users under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately.

10. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your own. We will ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information.

11. Data Retention

We retain your personal information only for as long as necessary to provide the Service and comply with legal obligations. Account information is deleted upon account termination.

Local Data: Notes and content stored in your browser remain until you clear browser data or delete them manually.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by updating the "Last Updated" date and, where appropriate, providing additional notice.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us:

Contact Page

14. Your Consent

By using the Service, you consent to this Privacy Policy and the collection and use of information as described herein.