Privacy Policy
Last updated: March 7, 2025
This Privacy Policy explains how mastodon.acerbo.me (“this server”, “we”, “us”) collects, uses, stores, and protects personal information when you use this Mastodon instance.
By using this server, you agree to the practices described below.
1. Information We Collect
1.1 Account Information
When you create an account on this server, we collect:
- Username
- Email address
- Encrypted password
You may also optionally provide:
- Display name
- Biography
- Profile picture
- Header image
Public information: Your username, display name, biography, profile picture, and header image are always publicly visible.
1.2 Posts and Public Activity
We store and process the content and metadata you generate, including:
- Public and unlisted posts
- Followers and following lists
- Reblogs and favourites
- Featured posts on your profile
- Media attachments (images, videos, etc.)
- Timestamps and the application used to post
Public and unlisted posts are accessible to anyone. Followers-only and direct posts are delivered only to intended recipients, but may be copied to other servers in the federated network.
Because Mastodon is federated, copies of your posts may be stored on other servers beyond our control.
1.3 Followers-Only and Direct Posts
Followers-only posts are delivered to your followers and mentioned users. Direct posts are delivered only to mentioned users.
While we take reasonable measures to restrict access, operators of this server and recipient servers may technically access such content, and recipients may re-share it (e.g. screenshots).
Do not share sensitive, confidential, or dangerous information via Mastodon.
1.4 Technical Data and Logs
We may collect:
- IP address used to log in
- Browser and client application information
- Server access logs
Retention:
- Latest IP address associated with your account: up to 12 months
- Server access logs: up to 90 days, where applicable
Active login sessions are visible to you in your account settings and can be revoked at any time.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use collected data to:
- Provide core Mastodon functionality
- Enable federation with other servers
- Deliver timelines, posts, and notifications
- Moderate the community and enforce rules
- Detect abuse, spam, or ban evasion
- Communicate service-related notifications via email
Your email address is never publicly visible and is never shared with third-party applications.
3. Data Sharing and Federation
We do not sell or trade your personal data.
Your public content is automatically shared with other servers in the federated network. Followers-only and direct posts are shared only with the servers of intended recipients.
When you authorize third-party applications, they may access data according to the permissions you approve (e.g. posts, profile, followers). Applications cannot access your email address or password.
4. Cookies
We use cookies to:
- Maintain login sessions
- Remember user preferences
Cookies do not contain sensitive personal data and can be disabled via your browser, though doing so may limit functionality.
5. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your data, including:
- HTTPS / SSL encryption
- Secure session handling
- Strong one-way password hashing
- Optional two-factor authentication (2FA)
No system is completely secure, but we take reasonable steps to protect your information.
6. Data Retention and Deletion
We make a good faith effort to:
- Retain server logs no longer than necessary (max 90 days)
- Retain IP addresses associated with accounts no longer than 12 months
You may:
- Download an archive of your account data
- Permanently delete your account at any time
Account deletion is irreversible.
7. Children and Age Restrictions
- EU / EEA: Users must be at least 16 years old (GDPR)
- USA: Users must be at least 13 years old (COPPA)
If you do not meet the minimum age requirement for your jurisdiction, do not use this service.
8. Legal Disclosure
We may disclose information if required to:
- Comply with legal obligations
- Enforce server rules
- Protect the rights, safety, or property of users or others
9. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date.
10. License and Attribution
This document is licensed under CC BY-SA. Originally adapted from the Discourse Privacy Policy and customized for Mastodon.
Mastodon.Acerbo.Me is a decentralized, open-source social network built around people rather than algorithms, where timelines are chronological and communities are shaped by shared values. For questions, moderation matters, or contact with the admin.