PRIVACY POLICY

1. Overview

This website allows users to upload and share in-game paintings for ARK: Survival Ascended and ARK: Survival Evolved. By using this website, you agree to this Privacy Policy.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following information:

• Uploaded files (images or .pnt painting files)
• Basic submission data such as file names or metadata
• If you register: a username, email address, and a hashed password (we cannot see your password)
• If you log in via Discord: your Discord username, Discord user ID, and avatar URL
• Comments you post on paintings
• Rating data (tied to your account and stored on our server)
• Bookmarked or favorited paintings
• Your IP address when downloading files (used only to prevent download count manipulation)
• Your IP address is temporarily logged for rate limiting on login, registration, and password reset forms (automatically expired)

3. How We Store Data

Account information is stored in a SQLite database separate from paintings. Passwords are hashed using PHP's built-in password hashing — we never store plain-text passwords. Avatar images are stored as PNG files on the server.

4. How We Use Information

• Display community-submitted paintings
• Allow users to download shared content
• Manage user accounts and authentication
• Display usernames and avatars alongside uploaded content and comments
• Manage the gallery of uploads
• Allow you to bookmark or favorite paintings

We do not sell or use your data for advertising or marketing.

5. Discord Login

When you log in via Discord, we receive your Discord username, user ID, and avatar from Discord's API. We do not receive or store your Discord password. You can revoke Discord access at any time from your Discord account settings.

6. Public Content

Uploaded paintings, your username, avatar, and comments are publicly visible. Do not upload content or post comments you do not wish to share publicly.

7. Data Retention

Account data is retained until you delete your account. Uploaded files and comments may remain after account deletion but will be disassociated from your username. Votes and bookmarks are removed when your account is deleted.

8. Cookies and Tracking

Session cookies are used to maintain your login state. No analytics, advertising, or third-party tracking services are used.

9. Third-Party Access

We do not share your data with third parties. Discord login uses Discord's OAuth API for authentication only.

10. Children's Privacy

This site is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

11. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated at any time. Continued use of the site means you accept any changes.

12. Contact

If you have questions, contact the site administrator.