Privacy Policy

Last updated: 2026-04-26

The short version

Smarkdown is a free conversion tool. We do not sell your data, we do not run advertising trackers, and we do not retain your uploaded files. PDFs are processed entirely in your browser and never leave your device. Other formats are converted on a stateless server that deletes the file the moment your download is sent.

Who runs this site

Smarkdown is operated by Mycelium Consulting Limited, registered in England and Wales. Registered office: 30 Westgate, Otley, LS21 3AS, United Kingdom. Contact: hello@smarkdown.xyz.

What data we process

Files you convert

  • PDFs: processed in your browser using PDF.js. The file never reaches our server. We cannot see it, read it, or store it.
  • All other formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, EPUB, HTML, CSV, JSON, images, audio, ZIP): uploaded to api.smarkdown.xyz, converted in memory, returned to you, and immediately deleted. No copy is retained on disk after the response is sent.
  • PDF compression (large files via async mode): if a PDF is over 50MB, you may be asked to provide an email so we can notify you when it is ready. The file and the email are deleted within 24 hours of completion.

Analytics

We use Plausible Analytics, self-hosted at plausible.clpn.io. Plausible:

  • Does not use cookies.
  • Does not collect personal data.
  • Anonymises IP addresses (we never see your raw IP).
  • Tracks aggregate metrics only: page views, referrer, device type, country.

We also track non-identifying product events (file uploaded, conversion completed, preview opened) to understand which features people actually use.

Forms

  • Contact form: handled by Netlify Forms. We receive your name, email, and message. Stored for as long as needed to respond, then archived.
  • Newsletter signup: email only. Used to send occasional product updates. Unsubscribe at any time using the link in every email.

What data we do not collect

  • We do not run third-party advertising trackers (no Google Analytics, no Facebook Pixel, no AdSense).
  • We do not sell, rent, or share your data with anyone.
  • We do not require you to create an account.
  • We do not track you across other websites.

Cookies

Smarkdown does not set tracking cookies. The only client-side storage we use is browser localStorage for remembering UI preferences (e.g. clean mode selection). This data never leaves your browser.

Your rights (GDPR / CCPA)

If you are in the EU, UK, or California, you have the right to:

  • Request a copy of any personal data we hold about you (likely none, given we do not collect any).
  • Request correction or deletion of any data.
  • Object to processing of your data.
  • Lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority (in the UK, the ICO at ico.org.uk).

Email hello@smarkdown.xyz for any privacy-related request. We respond within 30 days.

International transfers

Our servers are in Germany (Hetzner) and globally distributed (Netlify CDN). If you are outside the EU/UK, your data may be processed in these locations under standard contractual clauses.

Children

Smarkdown is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children.

Changes to this policy

We will post any changes here with an updated "Last updated" date. Material changes will be highlighted on the homepage for at least 14 days.

Contact

Questions? Email hello@smarkdown.xyz or use the contact form.

See also: Terms of Service.