Privacy Policy

TextJournal (“we”, “us”) provides a private journaling experience via SMS/MMS and an iOS app. This policy explains what we collect and how we use it.

1. Information we collect

• Account: phone number, name, email (optional), timezone, reminder preference, language, authentication provider (password, Apple, or Google).
• Journal content: SMS/MMS text and photos you send to the TextJournal number, plus AI companion replies.
• Subscription: App Store transaction identifiers and entitlement status needed to unlock SMS features (processed by Apple).
• Technical: basic server logs (timestamps, request status) for reliability and abuse prevention.

2. How we use information

• Provide journaling, AI CBT-informed replies, daily reminders, and the in-app journal history.
• Authenticate you and protect your account.
• Process subscriptions and free trials.
• Improve reliability and safety (including crisis keyword responses that point to 988 / local emergency resources).

3. AI processing

Journal text (and, when present, photo content needed for vision) is sent to our AI provider (currently OpenAI) to generate CBT-informed replies and short photo descriptions. Do not send information you do not want processed by these systems.

4. SMS delivery

We use Twilio to send and receive SMS/MMS. Message content is transmitted through carrier and Twilio networks to deliver the service.

5. Encryption & storage

Journal entry bodies are encrypted at rest with keys derived for your account. Photos attached to entries are stored securely and served only to your authenticated session. We do not sell your personal data.

6. Payments

Purchases are handled by Apple In-App Purchase. We do not receive your full payment card details. Apple’s privacy policy applies to payment processing.

7. Data retention & deletion

We retain account and journal data while your account is active. You can permanently delete your account in the TextJournal app under Settings → Delete Account. That removes your account, journal entries, and stored photos from our servers. You may also email support@textjournal.app for help. After deletion, limited records may be retained only where required for legal, security, or accounting reasons. App Store subscriptions are managed separately in your Apple ID settings.

8. Children’s privacy

TextJournal is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 13.

9. Important health disclaimer

TextJournal is a wellness and journaling tool. It is not medical care, therapy, or a crisis service, and it is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (US) or use local emergency services.

10. Changes

We may update this policy. The “Last updated” date will change when we do. Continued use after updates means you accept the revised policy.

11. Contact

Questions: support@textjournal.app