Privacy Policy

Last updated: December 13, 2025

Our Commitment to Privacy

FamilyCodex is designed with privacy at its core. Unlike cloud-based genealogy services, FamilyCodex is self-hosted software that runs on your server. This means your family data stays under your complete control.

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Store & Licensing (familycodex.org)

When you purchase or register for FamilyCodex, we collect:

  • Email address (for license delivery and account access)
  • Payment information (processed securely by Stripe - we never see your card details)
  • Domain name (for license activation)
  • Basic usage analytics (download counts, version numbers)

1.2 The FamilyCodex Application

The FamilyCodex application itself:

  • Does NOT send your family data to us or any third party
  • Does NOT require an internet connection to function (except for updates and license checks)
  • Does store all data locally on your server in JSON files
  • May periodically check for updates from familycodex.org (version number only)

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

  • Deliver and activate your software license
  • Provide customer support
  • Send important product updates and security notices
  • Process refunds or billing inquiries
  • Improve our products based on aggregate usage patterns

3. Information Sharing

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

  • Payment Processing: Stripe processes payments and is subject to their privacy policy
  • Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
  • With Your Consent: For any other purpose with your explicit permission

4. AI Features & Third-Party Services

FamilyCodex's AI features (biography generation, place standardization) use your own OpenAI API key. When you use these features:

  • Data is sent directly from your server to OpenAI
  • We never see or process this data
  • You are subject to OpenAI's privacy policy
  • You control what data is sent and can disable these features anytime

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures including:

  • SSL/TLS encryption for all communications with familycodex.org
  • Secure password hashing (bcrypt)
  • Regular security updates
  • No storage of payment card information

For your self-hosted installation, security is your responsibility. We recommend keeping PHP updated, using HTTPS, and following server security best practices.

6. Data Retention

We retain your store account information for as long as your license is active, plus a reasonable period for support purposes. You may request deletion of your account by contacting support. Your family tree data in the application is stored only on your server - you have full control over it.

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access the personal information we hold about you
  • Request correction of inaccurate information
  • Request deletion of your account
  • Export your data
  • Opt out of marketing communications

8. Cookies

The FamilyCodex store uses essential cookies for session management and authentication. We do not use tracking cookies or third-party analytics on the store website.

9. Children's Privacy

Our store services are not directed at children under 16. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. The FamilyCodex application may be used to record information about family members of any age, but this data is stored only on your server.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by email or by posting a notice on our website. Your continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions about this privacy policy or how we handle your data, please contact us:

Contact Us