About Terms Privacy

Privacy Policy

Last updated: December 2, 2025

1. Data Collection

Reference Manager is designed with privacy in mind. We do not collect, store, or transmit your reference data to any external servers. All processing happens locally in your browser session. Your references are stored only in your browser's session storage and are cleared when you close your browser or clear your session data.

2. External API Usage

When you add references via URL, Reference Manager may make requests to external APIs to fetch metadata:

  • arXiv API: For arXiv paper metadata
  • CrossRef API: For DOI resolution and metadata
  • PubMed E-utilities API: For PubMed article metadata

These requests are made directly from your browser to the respective APIs. We do not intercept, store, or log these requests. The URLs you provide are sent only to the relevant API service for metadata extraction.

3. Session Storage

Reference Manager uses browser session storage to temporarily store your references while you use the application. This data is:

  • Stored only in your browser
  • Not transmitted to any external servers
  • Cleared when you close your browser
  • Accessible only to you

4. Cookies and Tracking

Reference Manager uses session cookies only for maintaining your session state. We do not use tracking cookies, analytics, or any third-party tracking services. We do not collect information about your browsing behavior or use cookies for advertising purposes.

5. File Uploads

When you upload RIS files, they are processed entirely in memory. Files are not saved to disk or transmitted to external servers. The file contents are parsed and immediately discarded after processing.

6. Third-Party Services

Reference Manager may be hosted on third-party platforms (such as Vercel, Heroku, or similar). These platforms may collect standard server logs (IP addresses, request timestamps) as part of their normal operation. We do not have access to or control over these logs. Please refer to the hosting platform's privacy policy for details.

7. Data Security

Since Reference Manager processes all data locally in your browser, your reference data never leaves your device. This provides a high level of security and privacy. However, you are responsible for maintaining the security of your own device and browser.

8. Children's Privacy

Reference Manager is not intended for use by children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us.

9. Changes to 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.

10. Contact

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please review the project documentation or open an issue on the project repository.