Privacy Policy

Last Updated: 31 December 2024

At MindEcho, protecting your privacy and handling your data responsibly is at the core of what we do. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect your information when you use our website, mobile app, and related services (collectively, the “Services”). By using our Services, you agree to this Privacy Policy and our Terms of Use.

1. Data Collection

We collect the following types of data to provide you with a seamless journaling experience:

a. What Data is Collected

  • Personal Information: Name, email address, and any information you provide during account creation or support requests.
  • Journal Entries: Voice-to-text transcriptions, manually typed entries, and any media (photos, music, etc.) you upload.
  • Usage Data: Device type, operating system, app version, IP address, and activity logs, including interactions with specific features.
  • Location Data: Approximate location based on your IP address.
  • Feedback Data: Suggestions or feature requests submitted by you.

b. How Data is Collected

  • Direct Input: Through forms, app activity, and journaling entries.
  • Automatic Tracking: Using cookies, analytics tools, and app logs.
  • Third-Party Tools: Integrations with tools like analytics platforms or OpenAI for AI-powered features (e.g., mood analysis and tagging). For more details, refer to our Terms of Use.

2. Purpose of Data Use

We collect and use your data for the following purposes:

a. Functionality

  • To provide features such as voice-to-text transcription, mood analysis, smart tagging, and goal tracking.

b. Improvements

  • To analyze user feedback and optimize app performance, feature usability, and user experience.

c. Marketing (with Consent)

  • To send newsletters, product updates, or promotional emails. You can opt out of these communications at any time.

Your acceptance of the Terms of Use confirms consent for these uses.

3. Data Sharing

We take care to ensure your data is shared responsibly:

a. Third-Party Sharing

  • Service Providers: Data may be shared with analytics platforms, cloud storage providers, or OpenAI to deliver app features.
  • Aggregated Data: Non-identifiable data may be shared for performance monitoring or research purposes.
  • Strict Limitations: Your data will not be sold to third parties.

b. Legal Obligations

  • Your data may be disclosed to comply with applicable laws, regulations, or legal processes or to protect the safety of users.

By agreeing to the Terms of Use, you consent to the sharing outlined above.

4. User Rights

You have the following rights regarding your data:

  • Access and Correction: View and update your personal data directly through the app.
  • Data Deletion: Request deletion of your account and associated data.
  • Data Portability: Request an export of your data in a machine-readable format.
  • Marketing Opt-Out: Opt out of marketing communications at any time.

To exercise these rights, contact us at [email protected].

5. Security Measures

We prioritize safeguarding your data through:

  • Encryption: All data is encrypted during transmission and at rest.
  • Access Controls: Sensitive data is accessible only to authorized personnel.
  • Third-Party Audits: In the future, we will conduct regular reviews of our security measures to maintain compliance. Refer to the Terms of Use for more details.

6. Data Retention

We retain your data as follows:

  • Retention for Service Delivery: Data is retained as long as necessary to provide the Services.
  • Legal Compliance: Data is retained to comply with applicable legal requirements. See Terms of Use for additional details.
  • User-Controlled Deletion: You can delete your account and associated data at any time through the app.

7. Cookie Policy

Our website and app use cookies to enhance your experience:

  • Types of Cookies Used:
    • Necessary cookies for core functionality.
    • Analytics cookies to track user behavior and improve performance.
    • Advertising cookies (if applicable) to deliver personalized content.
  • User Options: You can opt in or out of non-essential cookies using our cookie consent banner.

For more information, refer to our Cookie Policy.

8. International Data Transfers

If you access our Services outside of [Your Company’s Operating Region], your data may be transferred and processed in countries with different data protection laws.

  • GDPR Compliance: For EU users, we ensure compliance through Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs).
  • CCPA Compliance: California residents have specific rights under the CCPA.
  • PIPEDA and Australia’s Privacy Act Compliance: Where applicable, your data will be handled per regional privacy laws.

9. Updates to the Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or for legal compliance. Updates will be posted on this page, and significant changes will be communicated through the app or via email.

10. Contact Information

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

11. Compliance with Legal Frameworks

We ensure alignment with the following privacy regulations:

  • GDPR: Full transparency, user rights, and lawful data processing for EU users.
  • CCPA: Special provisions for California residents, including access and opt-out rights.
  • PIPEDA (Canada) and Australia’s Privacy Act: Compliance with respective national laws.

12. Special Considerations for Journaling Apps

Given the sensitive nature of journaling data, we provide additional safeguards:

  • AI Features: All AI analysis (e.g., mood analysis, tagging) is conducted with transparency about how data is processed.
  • Sensitive Data Handling: Journal entries are encrypted, and access is restricted.
  • Optional Data Sharing: Users can opt out of certain data collections, such as for AI training purposes, in their settings.