Privacy Policy

1. File processing

All PDF processing — merging, splitting, compressing, converting, signing, encrypting, and every other tool on this site — runs entirely within your web browser using JavaScript libraries loaded from our CDN. No file, page content, password, or personal data is ever transmitted to our servers or any third-party server.

The QR Scan to PDF feature uses WebRTC (via PeerJS) to establish a direct peer-to-peer connection between your devices. PeerJS servers are used only for the initial connection handshake and do not relay or store any document data.

2. Data we collect

We collect the minimum data necessary to operate the site:

• Server logs: Standard web server logs (IP address, user agent, page URL, timestamp). These are retained for up to 30 days for security and debugging purposes and are never sold or shared.
• Analytics: We use privacy-respecting, cookie-free analytics (aggregate page view counts only). No individual user is tracked across sessions.
• Contact form submissions: If you contact us via the contact page, your message and email address are stored only for the purpose of responding to your inquiry.

3. Cookies

We do not use cookies for advertising, tracking, or profiling. We use only a single session-preference cookie for language selection, which is strictly functional and contains no personal data.

4. Local storage

Some tools (such as Sign PDF) store your signature data in your browser's local storage for convenience. This data never leaves your device and can be cleared at any time via your browser settings.

5. Third-party services

The following third-party services are used. None receive your document content:

• Cloudflare: CDN and DDoS protection. Cloudflare may see your IP address. See Cloudflare's privacy policy.
• PeerJS (WebRTC signaling): Used only for the initial handshake in QR Scan to PDF. See PeerJS's terms.

6. GDPR & data rights

Because we collect minimal data and no document content, compliance with GDPR, CCPA, and similar regulations is straightforward. You have the right to:

• Request deletion of any contact form data we hold about you.
• Receive a copy of any personal data we hold about you.
• Object to processing of your data for any purpose.

To exercise any of these rights, contact us at smartmadhn@gmail.com.

7. Children

EssentialPDFTool is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children.

8. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Material changes will be noted on this page with an updated date. Continued use of the site after changes constitutes acceptance.

9. Contact

Questions about this policy? Email us at smartmadhn@gmail.com.