Privacy Policy

1. What Overmod Does

Overmod is a browser extension for Hacker News that lets you block users so their posts and comments are hidden or de‑emphasized, and highlight users so their posts and comments stand out. The extension can also create and subscribe to shared “block” or “highlight” lists that contain Hacker News account names.

2. Information We Process

2.1 Data stored in your browser

The Overmod extension stores configuration and list information locally in your browser (for example in chrome.storage.local and, if enabled, chrome.storage.sync):

• Overmod settings such as hide/collapse mode and API base URL.
• Lists you subscribe to (public keys, labels, and whether each is used to block or highlight).
• Local‑only blocked users (Hacker News usernames visible only to you).
• Local‑only highlighted users.
• Writable lists you control (labels, public keys, and associated private keys).

On overmod.org, we also use your browser’s local storage to remember which public lists you subscribe to from the directory. This data remains in your browser unless you perform actions that explicitly talk to the Overmod API.

2.2 Data sent to the Overmod API

When you interact with server‑backed lists, the extension or website may send the following information to the Overmod API operated by Technology Brother LLC:

• List metadata, such as list name, description, and type (block or highlight).
• List contents: Hacker News usernames that you add to or remove from a list.
• Public keys identifying lists, and cryptographic signatures proving you are authorized to modify them.

Server‑backed lists and their contents are intentionally designed to be publicly queryable via the Overmod API. Anyone who knows or discovers a list’s public key can view that list’s usernames.

2.3 Server logs and diagnostics

Our servers and hosting providers may collect standard HTTP log information, such as IP address, browser type and version, operating system, referring URL, date and time of requests, and error messages. We use this information to operate, secure, and debug the Service and to enforce rate‑limits and abuse protections. We do not sell this data or use it to build marketing profiles, and Overmod does not embed third‑party advertising or analytics beacons.

3. How We Use Information

• To operate and maintain the extension, website, and API.
• To allow you to create, update, and delete lists of Hacker News usernames.
• To apply your block and highlight preferences on Hacker News pages.
• To synchronize list contents and labels between your browser and the server.
• To protect the Service against abuse and attacks.
• To diagnose and fix bugs or reliability issues.

4. Sharing of Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information:

• With service providers who help us operate the Service (for example, hosting), under appropriate agreements.
• If required by law, regulation, or legal process.
• If necessary to protect the rights, property, or safety of Technology Brother LLC, our users, or the public.
• In connection with a merger, acquisition, or similar transaction, subject to applicable legal requirements.

Public list contents are intentionally visible to others via the Overmod API and directory.

5. Data Retention

• List data (usernames and metadata) is kept while the list exists, until deleted or modified by the list owner or us.
• Server logs are retained for a limited period appropriate for security and operations, then deleted or aggregated.

Local data in your browser (including local blocks, highlights, and subscriptions) is retained until you remove the extension, clear your browser data, or change your settings.

6. Your Choices and Rights

Your primary controls are built into the extension and website:

• Block or unblock users; add or remove usernames from lists you control.
• Subscribe to or unsubscribe from lists.
• Remove the extension via your browser’s extension management page.
• Clear Overmod’s local data using your browser’s data‑clearing tools.

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have rights to access, correct, or delete personal data we store about you, or to object to or restrict certain processing. Because Overmod primarily processes pseudonymous Hacker News usernames, these rights may be limited by our ability to reliably verify that a particular username belongs to you.

7. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect the information we process, including HTTPS for API calls, cryptographic signatures for list modifications, and rate limiting for write operations. However, no system can be perfectly secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

8. Children’s Privacy

Overmod is intended for use by adults. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 (or under the age required by local law). If you believe we have collected such information, please contact us so we can delete it.

9. International Transfers

The Service is operated from the United States. If you access Overmod from outside the United States, your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States or other countries where our infrastructure or service providers are located.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will change the “Last updated” date above. If we make material changes, we will provide additional notice (for example, on the website or via the extension). Your continued use of the Service after changes take effect constitutes your acceptance of the revised Policy.

11. Contact

If you have questions about this Policy or wish to exercise your rights, you can contact:

Technology Brother LLC
Email: [email protected]