Last Updated: 2025-03-11
1. Introduction
At Hend, we take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our language learning application and website (collectively, the "Service").
We prioritize data minimization and local-first technology to protect your privacy. Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. By using Hend, you consent to the data practices described in this policy.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Local-First Data
Most of your data in Hend is stored locally on your device, including:
- Language learning progress
- Word and phrase lists
- Personal content you've imported
- Application settings and preferences
- Generated or downloaded learning materials
This local-first approach means that much of your personal data never leaves your device.
2.2 Information Collected for Premium Features
If you subscribe to premium features, we may collect:
Account Information:
- Email address
- Username
- Authentication data (processed through a third-party authentication provider)
- Payment information (processed through secure third-party payment processors)
Synchronization Data:
- All app data (texts, saved words, learning progress, statistics)
- User-imported content
- App preferences and settings
2.3 AI-Generated Content
When you use AI content generation features:
- Your prompts and preferences may be sent to our servers or third-party AI providers
- AI generation requests are processed according to our data retention policies
- When you use your own API keys, data processing is governed by that service's privacy policy
3. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide, maintain, and improve Hend
- Process transactions and manage your subscription
- Synchronize your data across devices (premium users only)
- Analyze usage patterns to enhance user experience
- Communicate with you about your account or subscription
- Provide customer support
- Detect and prevent fraudulent or unauthorized activity
4. Data Storage and Security
4.1 Local Data Storage
The majority of your learning data is stored locally on your device. For non-registered users, all data remains local. We do not have access to this local data unless you explicitly choose to share it with us (such as for support purposes).
4.2 End-to-End Encrypted Synchronization
For registered users using synchronization features:
- Your data is fully end-to-end encrypted - The syncing server never sees your data in plaintext
- We use a modern synchronization technology that implements public-key cryptography
- Your edits are encrypted and signed on-device, verifiable by everyone but readable only by those you've given access to
- Synchronized data is cached using a distributed infrastructure optimized for performance and security
- We implement additional industry-standard security measures to protect your information
4.3 Data Retention
- Local data remains on your device until you delete it or uninstall the application
- Account information is retained as long as you maintain an active account
- After account deletion, we retain certain information as required by law or for legitimate business purposes
5. Sharing Your Information
We do not sell your personal information. We may share information in the following circumstances:
5.1 Service Providers
We may share information with third-party vendors who provide services on our behalf, such as:
- Payment processors
- Authentication providers
- Synchronization technology providers
- Analytics services
- Customer support tools
These providers are contractually obligated to use your information solely for providing services to us. Note that due to end-to-end encryption, our synchronization provider cannot access your content data in plaintext.
5.2 AI Service Providers
When you use AI generation features:
- Your generation requests may be processed by third-party AI providers
- These providers may retain data according to their own privacy policies
- When you use your own API keys, your relationship with that provider is governed by their terms
5.3 Legal Requirements
We may disclose information if required to do so by law or in response to valid requests by public authorities.
6. Your Rights and Choices
Depending on your location, you may have certain rights regarding your personal information:
- Access: You can request access to the personal information we hold about you
- Correction: You can request correction of inaccurate information
- Deletion: You can request deletion of your account and personal information
- Opt-out: You can opt out of marketing communications
- Data portability: You can request a copy of your data in a structured format
6.1 Local Data Control
Because Hend uses a local-first approach:
- You maintain direct control over data stored on your device
- Uninstalling the application will remove local data from your device
7. Children's Privacy
Hend is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe we have collected information from a child, please contact us immediately.
8. Third-Party Links and Services
Hend may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties. We encourage you to read their privacy policies before providing any information.
9. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the "Last Updated" date. For significant changes, we will provide additional notice through the application or via email.
10. International Data Transfers
For premium users with data synchronization:
- Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your residence
- All synchronized data is end-to-end encrypted, protecting your privacy regardless of location
- Our synchronization technology optimizes data caching to keep your encrypted data as close to your location as possible
- We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international transfers
11. California Privacy Rights
If you are a California resident, you have specific rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Please contact us to exercise these rights.
12. GDPR Compliance
For users in the European Economic Area (EEA), we comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The legal bases for processing your information include:
- Performance of the contract we have with you
- Your consent
- Legitimate interests
- Compliance with legal obligations
13. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us at:
[email protected]
Thank you for trusting Hend with your language learning journey!