Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy explains how ExCITATION("Company", "we", "us" or "our") collects, uses, and protects personal information when you access or use the ExCITATION website, browser extension, crowdfunding pages, and any related APIs or services (collectively, "Services").

1. Definitions

• Website – the ExCITATION site accessible at https://excitation.tech/
• Extension – the ExCITATION Chrome browser extension.
• Crowdfunding Campaign – any fundraising initiative hosted or promoted through the Website.

Registered address: 4th Floor, Silverstream House, 45 Fitzroy Street, Fitzrovia, London, England, W1T 6EB.

2. Chrome Browser Extension "ExCITATION"

No personally identifying information is collected automatically.

2.1. Local data (stays on your device)

• Journal-rank cache → faster page loads.
• Email + Access key (optional) → unlock beta features.

Clear both at any time by uninstalling the extension or deleting its storage.

2.2. Bug reports (voluntary)

Clicking "Report a bug" opens a Google Form pre-filled with the current Google Scholar URL and your extension version—you can edit or erase those fields before submitting. Responses are stored in a private Google Drive folder visible only to ExCITATION team and removed upon request.

2.3. Usage analytics (anonymous)

We use Google Analytics 4 to understand, in aggregate, how many people install and use ExCITATION and which extension versions are active. We do not send browsing history, paper titles, or email addresses.

2.4. No 3rd party Data Sharing

Data are shared only with Google Analytics 4 and Google Forms for the purposes above. We never sell data or use it for advertising.

2.5. Extension's Data Access Permissions

To support the abstract preview feature, the extension fetches article metadata from external websites only when you click the preview icon — these can be hosted on any domain. We also query api.crossref.org to retrieve missing journal information. If you prefer, you can limit access to just https://scholar.google.com/* and https://api.crossref.org/*. The extension will still work, but without abstract previews feature.

3. Website – Log Data

Like most websites delivered over the internet, our servers automatically collect certain information and store it in log files when you visit or interact with the Website. This Log Data may include: IP address; date and time of access; browser type and settings; cookie identifiers. We use Log Data to operate, maintain, and improve the Website, ensure security, and compile aggregated statistics.

4. Website – Email

If you voluntarily provide an email address (e.g., to subscribe to updates or create an account), we may use it to send product or feature announcements, security or maintenance notices, and respond to support enquiries. You can opt out of non‑essential emails at any time via the unsubscribe link or by contacting us.

5. Crowdfunding Campaign Data

When you participate in an ExCITATION crowdfunding campaign, we collect name (or chosen display name), donation amount, and feature votes / preferences as described on the campaign page. We do not sell, rent, or otherwise transfer crowdfunding data to advertisers or any external parties. By default, we may list donor names on a public "Backers" page; you can opt to remain anonymous at the point of donation or by contacting us later.

6. Information Security

We implement industry‑standard technical and organisational measures to protect personal data against unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction.

7. Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have rights to access, correct, delete, or restrict the processing of your personal data. To exercise these rights, email hello@excitation.tech.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. If material changes are made, we will post a prominent notice on the Website or notify you via email.

9. Contact Us

For any questions about this Privacy Policy or your personal data, please email hello@excitation.tech.