Privacy Policy

Effective Date: February 1, 2026

ChessScan ("we," "our," or "the app") is developed by Eugene Chan. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use ChessScan.

Information We Collect

Account Information. When you create an account, we collect your email address and a user identifier. You may optionally upload a profile picture, which is stored with your account.

Scoresheet Images. When you scan a chess scoresheet, the image is processed using a third-party AI service (Anthropic Claude API) to perform optical character recognition. Images are sent to the API for processing and are not permanently stored on our servers. Anthropic's data handling is governed by their own privacy policy.

Game Data. Chess game data you create, including move notation (PGN), annotations, metadata (player names, event, date, result), and associated settings are stored in our cloud database (Google Firebase Firestore) to enable syncing across your devices and game sharing.

Usage Data. We track aggregate usage counts, such as the number of scans and game saves, to manage subscription tier limits. We do not track which specific games you scan or the content of your games for analytics purposes.

Purchase Information. If you subscribe to a paid plan, Apple processes your payment. We receive confirmation of your subscription status but do not have access to your payment method details (credit card number, etc.). Purchase history is used solely to provide you with the correct level of service.

How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide the core app functionality: scanning scoresheets, storing games, and enabling game analysis
• Sync your game library across your devices
• Enable game sharing via links
• Manage your account and subscription
• Enforce usage limits based on your subscription tier

Third-Party Services

ChessScan uses the following third-party services:

• Google Firebase — for user authentication, cloud data storage (Firestore), and app configuration. See Firebase Privacy.
• Anthropic Claude API — for AI-powered handwriting recognition of chess scoresheets. See Anthropic Privacy Policy.
• Stockfish — for chess move analysis, processed on our servers. No personal data is sent to the analysis engine.

Data Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties. Your data is shared only in the following circumstances:

• Game Sharing. When you share a game via a link, the game's move data and metadata (player names, event, date, result) become accessible to anyone with the link. No account information is shared.
• Service Providers. We use the third-party services listed above to operate the app. These providers process data on our behalf and are subject to their own privacy policies.

Data Storage and Security

Your account and game data are stored in Google Firebase Firestore, which uses encryption in transit and at rest. We use Firebase Authentication to secure access to your account, including support for biometric authentication (Face ID / Touch ID) on your device. While we take reasonable measures to protect your data, no method of electronic storage is 100% secure.

Data Retention and Deletion

Your game data is retained as long as you maintain an active account. You can delete individual games at any time from within the app. If you wish to delete your entire account and all associated data, please contact us at the email address below, and we will process your request within 30 days.

Children's Privacy

ChessScan is not directed at children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child under 13 has provided us with personal information, please contact us and we will promptly delete it.

Your Choices

• You can use ChessScan without creating an account, though cloud sync and sharing features require sign-in.
• You can delete individual games from your library at any time.
• You can manage or cancel your subscription through your Apple ID settings.
• You can request full account deletion by contacting us.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. If we make material changes, we will notify you through the app or by other means. The "Effective Date" at the top of this page indicates when the policy was last revised.

Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or your data, please contact us at:

chessscanapp@gmail.com