Privacy Policy

Last updated: November 30, 2025

At CitePulse, we take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our platform.

By using CitePulse, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

When you register for an account, we collect:

  • Name and email address
  • Company name and website
  • Payment information (processed securely through Stripe)
  • Account preferences and settings

Usage Data

We automatically collect certain information when you use our platform:

  • IP address and browser type
  • Pages visited and features used
  • Time and date of visits
  • Diagnostic and performance data

Brand and Content Data

To provide our services, we collect:

  • Brand names and website URLs you want to monitor
  • Target keywords and products
  • Content you submit for optimization
  • GEO score results and analytics

API Keys (BYOK Users)

For users on Bring Your Own Key plans:

  • LLM API keys (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google) — stored encrypted with AES-256
  • Keys are encrypted using PBKDF2 with 480,000 iterations
  • Never used outside of your requests
  • Can be deleted at any time

How We Use Your Information

  • Provide Services: To deliver GEO monitoring, analysis, and optimization features
  • Account Management: To create and manage your account, process payments, and provide support
  • Improve Platform: To analyze usage patterns and enhance our features and performance
  • Communications: To send service updates, security alerts, and marketing communications (you can opt out)
  • Legal Compliance: To comply with legal obligations and protect our rights

Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your data:

Encryption

All data transmitted over HTTPS/TLS. API keys encrypted at rest with AES-256.

Access Control

Role-based permissions and authentication with JWT tokens.

Monitoring

24/7 security monitoring and automated threat detection.

Backups

Regular automated backups with point-in-time recovery.

Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information. We may share data only in these limited circumstances:

  • Service Providers: With trusted third parties who help us operate our platform (Stripe for payments, cloud hosting providers)
  • LLM Providers: Your queries are sent to LLM providers (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google) to generate GEO scores — only when you use those features
  • Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or to protect our rights
  • Business Transfers: In the event of a merger or acquisition (you'll be notified)

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • ✓ Access your personal data
  • ✓ Correct inaccurate data
  • ✓ Delete your account and data
  • ✓ Export your data
  • ✓ Opt out of marketing communications
  • ✓ Object to certain data processing

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@citepulse.com

Cookies and Tracking

We use essential cookies for authentication and session management. We do not use third-party advertising cookies.

You can control cookies through your browser settings, but disabling them may affect platform functionality.

Children's Privacy

CitePulse is not intended for users under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from children. If you believe we have collected data from a child, please contact us immediately.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We'll notify you of significant changes via email or through the platform. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

Questions About Privacy?

We're here to help. Contact our privacy team anytime.

privacy@citepulse.com