Privacy Policy for Merkle

Overview

Merkle is a local-first Windows application designed to help users analyze and optimize disk usage by scanning folders and computing file metadata. Your privacy is important, and Merkle is built to operate entirely on your device.

Data Collection

Merkle does not collect, transmit, or share any personal data.

All operations are performed locally on your computer.

When you scan a folder, Merkle may compute and store the following local file metadata:

• File paths
• File names
• File sizes
• File creation and modification timestamps
• Cryptographic hashes (e.g., SHA-256)
• Perceptual image hashes (for duplicate detection)
• File type and extension information

This data is used only to provide the app's features, such as duplicate detection, file analysis, and storage insights.

Data Storage

• All computed metadata is stored locally on your device
• Merkle does not upload any data to external servers
• Merkle does not use cloud services
• Merkle does not include analytics, telemetry, or tracking

Data Sharing

Merkle does not share data with third parties.

No information is sent to:

• The developer
• Microsoft
• External services
• Analytics providers
• Advertising networks

Network Access

Merkle does not require an internet connection to function.

Any internet access is limited to:

• Application updates via the Microsoft Store (handled by Windows)

Permissions

Merkle only accesses folders that you explicitly select for scanning. It does not access files, folders, or system resources without your consent.

Children's Privacy

Merkle does not target children and does not collect any personal information from users of any age.

Changes to This Policy

If this privacy policy changes, the updated version will be made available at the same location where this policy is published.

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