Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

1. Information We Collect

Sherlock Project is committed to protecting your privacy. We collect minimal information necessary to operate the service:

  • Search queries: Processed in real-time only. Never stored on our servers.
  • Log data: Standard server logs (IP address, browser type, pages visited) retained for 30 days for security purposes.
  • Analytics: Anonymized usage statistics to improve the service. No personally identifiable information.

2. How We Use Information

The limited information we process is used exclusively to:

  • Provide and improve the Sherlock Project service
  • Detect and prevent abuse, fraud, or illegal activity
  • Maintain service security and performance
  • Comply with legal obligations

3. Zero Search Storage Policy

We maintain a strict zero-storage policy for user searches. When you enter a username, phone number, email address or IP address:

  • The query is forwarded directly to our search infrastructure
  • Results are streamed back to your browser
  • No record of the query or results is retained after the session

4. Cookies

We use minimal, functional cookies only:

  • Session cookies: Required for basic functionality, deleted when you close your browser.
  • Rate limiting: Anonymous token to prevent abuse, expires after 1 hour.

We do not use tracking cookies or third-party advertising cookies.

5. Data Sharing

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share data only in these limited circumstances:

  • When required by law or valid legal process
  • To protect the rights and safety of users or the public

6. Local Browser Storage

Recent search history displayed on the homepage is stored locally in your browser's localStorage only. This data never leaves your device and can be cleared at any time by clearing your browser data.

7. Third-Party Services

Our service uses Cloudflare for CDN and DDoS protection. Cloudflare may process request data in accordance with their privacy policy.

8. Children's Privacy

Sherlock Project is not intended for use by children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

9. Your Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have rights regarding your personal data, including the right to access, correct, or delete it. Since we store virtually no personal data, most requests can be fulfilled by simply not using the service.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date.

11. Contact

If you have questions about this privacy policy, please contact us via GitHub.