Privacy Policy
Last Updated: January 1, 2025
TL;DR - Privacy First: Your family tree data never leaves your device. It's stored locally in your browser using LocalStorage. We don't have access to your data, and we can't see it. You're in complete control.
1. Introduction
MapMyRoots ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we handle information when you use our free family tree builder application at mapmyroots.com (the "Service").
2. Data Collection and Storage
2.1 Family Tree Data
All family tree data you create (names, dates, relationships, photos, notes) is stored locally on your device using browser LocalStorage technology. This data:
- Never leaves your device or browser
- Is not uploaded to our servers
- Cannot be accessed by us or any third party
- Remains under your complete control
- Can be exported and deleted at any time
2.2 Analytics Data
We use Google Tag Manager and Google Analytics to collect anonymous usage statistics to help us improve the Service. This includes:
- Pages visited
- Features used
- Time spent on site
- Device type and browser
- General location (country/city level)
Important: Analytics data does not include any personal information from your family tree.
2.3 Cookies
We use the following types of cookies:
- Essential Cookies: Required for the Service to function (e.g., saving your language preference)
- Analytics Cookies: Google Analytics cookies to understand how you use the Service
3. No Account Required
MapMyRoots does not require you to create an account or provide any personal information such as:
- Email address
- Name
- Payment information
- Phone number
You can use the Service completely anonymously.
4. Data Security
Since your family tree data is stored locally on your device:
- You are responsible for securing your device
- We recommend regularly exporting your family tree data as backup
- Your data is subject to your browser's security and storage policies
- Clearing your browser data will delete your family tree
5. Third-Party Services
We use the following third-party services:
- Google Analytics: For anonymous usage statistics. See Google's Privacy Policy
- Google Fonts: For typography. See Google Fonts Privacy
6. Your Rights
You have complete control over your data:
- Access: View your data anytime in the application
- Export: Download your family tree data in JSON, PDF, or image formats
- Delete: Clear all data using the "Clear All Data" button in settings
- Modify: Edit any information in your family tree at any time
7. Children's Privacy
MapMyRoots does not knowingly collect any personal information from users. Since we don't collect personal data, users of all ages can use the Service. However, we recommend parental supervision for users under 13.
8. International Users
MapMyRoots is available worldwide. Since your data is stored locally on your device, it never crosses international borders through our Service. Analytics data processed by Google may be transferred internationally in accordance with Google's privacy policies.
9. Data Retention
Your family tree data remains on your device until you:
- Clear your browser's LocalStorage
- Use the "Clear All Data" feature in the application
- Uninstall your browser
We strongly recommend exporting your data regularly to prevent accidental loss.
10. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by updating the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
11. GDPR Compliance
For users in the European Union, we comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR):
- Data Minimization: We only process the minimum data necessary (anonymous analytics)
- User Control: You have complete control over your family tree data
- Transparency: This policy clearly explains our data practices
- Consent: By using our Service, you consent to analytics as described
12. California Privacy Rights (CCPA)
MapMyRoots does not sell personal information. California residents have the right to:
- Know what personal data is collected (none from your family tree)
- Request deletion of personal data
- Opt-out of data sales (we don't sell data)
13. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us:
- Email: support@mapmyroots.com
- Website: mapmyroots.com