Last updated: 2 October 2026
This policy explains what information ao.tools (“we”, “us”) handles when you use our free online tools.
Tools that run in your browser
Most of our tools (text, developer, calculators, image, generators and design tools) run entirely in your web browser. The text, images, passwords or other data you enter into them are processed on your device and are not uploaded to or stored on our servers.
PDF tools
When you use a PDF tool, the file you choose is uploaded to our server, processed, and the result is made available for download. Original files are deleted as soon as processing finishes, and results are deleted automatically after 30 minutes. We do not read, copy or share the contents of your files. Passwords you enter for protecting or unlocking a PDF are used only for that operation and are not stored.
Information we collect
- Usage records for PDF tools: which tool was used, file size and number of files, processing time, success or failure, your country, and your IP address. This is used to apply fair-use limits and prevent abuse. IP addresses are erased automatically after a limited period (30 days by default). We do not store file names or file contents.
- Visit statistics: we count page views, country and the number of unique visitors per day, using a hashed identifier that changes every day. We do not use cookies for this and do not track you across days.
- Account information (only if you create an account): username, email address and a securely hashed password. We use cookies to keep you signed in.
- Messages you send through our contact form: your name, email address and message.
- Technical data handled by our infrastructure providers, such as IP address and browser type, for security and delivery of the site.
Dynamic QR codes
If you create a dynamic QR code with an account, we store the code, its content (for example a web address or contact details you enter) and its design so you can edit it later. When someone scans the code we count the scan together with the day, the country, the type of device and the operating system, and a hashed identifier that changes every day to estimate unique visitors. We do not store IP addresses or browser details of people who scan. Static QR codes are created entirely in your browser and are not stored by us. You can delete a dynamic code, with its statistics, at any time; scan records are deleted after 400 days.
Cookies and advertising
We use strictly necessary cookies for sign-in and security. If advertising is enabled on the site, third-party advertising partners such as Google may use cookies or similar technologies to show and measure ads. Where required, we ask for your consent before loading advertising technologies, and you can change your choice at any time using “Cookie settings” in the footer. You can learn how Google uses data at policies.google.com/technologies/partner-sites.
Service providers
We use Cloudflare for content delivery and security, a hosting provider for our servers, and an email service provider to send account and contact emails. These providers process data on our behalf.
How long we keep data
PDF files: at most 30 minutes. IP addresses in tool records: up to 30 days. Other usage records: up to 90 days. Account data: until you ask us to delete your account. Contact messages: as long as needed to respond to you.
Your rights
Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete or export your personal data, and to object to or restrict certain processing. To exercise these rights, contact us using the form on our contact page.
Children
Our tools are general-purpose and not directed at children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect their personal data.
Changes
We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above shows the latest version.