Privacy Policy for Anchor - PTSD Support

Last Updated: August 12, 2026

Introduction

Anchor (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you use our mobile application.

Information We Collect

Information Stored Locally on Your Device

• Mood logs and emotional check-ins
• Safety plan information
• Technique usage history
• Conversation history with AI support
• App preferences and settings

Information We Do NOT Collect

• We do not collect, transmit, or store any personal information on external servers
• We do not track your location beyond what you explicitly provide
• We do not share your data with third parties
• We do not sell your information

How We Use Your Information

All data is stored locally on your device using secure storage mechanisms:

• To provide personalized mental health support
• To track your progress and mood patterns
• To remember your preferences and settings
• To improve your experience with the app

Third-Party Services

OpenAI API (Optional AI Support Feature)

What Data is Shared: If you choose to use the AI Support feature, the text messages you type are shared with OpenAI’s API to generate helpful mental health support responses.

What is NOT Shared:

• Your mood logs and history
• Your safety plan
• Your breathing exercise records
• Your personal notes
• Any other app data

How It Works:

1. You type a message in the AI Support screen
2. Your message is sent securely (HTTPS/TLS encryption) through our Vercel backend server
3. Our backend forwards it to OpenAI’s API for processing
4. OpenAI generates a response based on mental health support guidelines
5. The response is sent back to your device

Rate Limiting: To ensure service availability and responsible usage, we limit AI Support to 10 messages per day per device.

Data Retention:

• Anchor does NOT store your AI conversation messages on any server
• Conversation history is stored only on your device
• OpenAI processes messages according to their privacy policy and data retention terms
• For OpenAI’s data practices, see: https://openai.com/privacy

Your Control:

• This feature is entirely optional
• All other app features work completely offline without any data sharing
• You can choose not to use AI Support at any time
• Deleting the app removes all local conversation history

Backend Security: We use Vercel serverless functions as a secure proxy to:

• Protect API keys from exposure
• Add rate limiting and usage controls
• Monitor for abuse
• Ensure encrypted transmission

Expo Services

We use Expo for app development and updates. Expo may collect anonymous usage data. See Expo’s privacy policy: https://expo.dev/privacy

Data Security

• All sensitive data is encrypted using industry-standard encryption
• Data is stored only on your device
• No cloud backups are created without your explicit consent
• You can delete all your data at any time from Settings

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access all data stored by the app
• Delete all your data at any time
• Export your data (future feature)
• Opt out of any optional features

Children’s Privacy

This app is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13.

Medical Disclaimer

Anchor is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions regarding medical conditions. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, contact emergency services immediately.

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.

Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy, contact us at: [Your Contact Email]

Crisis Resources

If you are in crisis, please contact:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255
• Emergency Services: 911