> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://shortpen.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Where ShortPen stores your data and how long it’s retained

> Learn where ShortPen stores your data, how long it’s retained, and the safeguards ensuring GDPR-compliant deletion.

**Short answer:** Your data lives primarily on servers in **France and Germany**. We keep personal data **only as long as needed** for the service (generally while your account is active). When you delete your account or when we no longer have a legitimate need, we **delete or anonymize** the data. If something sits in backups, it’s **securely isolated** until it can be removed.

<Info>
  **See also**: [How ShortPen protects your data (GDPR and Data Privacy) ](/account-billing-security/security-compliance/gdpr-data-privacy)
</Info>

## Data location

* **Primary hosting**

  ShortPen runs on infrastructure located in **France and Germany**.
* **Processors outside your country**

  Some processing by trusted providers can occur in other countries (e.g., the United States). These transfers use **EU Standard Contractual Clauses** and similar safeguards.

## What we keep and for how long

* **While your account is active**

  We keep personal information **only as long as necessary** to provide the service. N**o purpose requires keeping it longer than your account lifetime.**
* **If there is no ongoing business need**

  We **delete or anonymize** your data. If immediate deletion isn't possible (e.g., **backup archives**), we **securely store and isolate** it until deletion is possible.
* **Analytics & link data**

  Available for as long as the account is active. Deletion removes them.

## Deletion timelines (what happens when you delete your account)

1. **You request deletion** from your [account settings](/account-billing-security/account-settings/profile-settings).
2. We **deactivate or delete your account and remove info from active databases**.
3. **Limited retention may remain** only where required (e.g., fraud prevention, legal/accounting), or in **backups** (isolated from further processing) until safe deletion is possible.

## International transfers & safeguards

If data must move outside the EEA/UK/Switzerland (for example, to the **United States**), ShortPen applies **Standard Contractual Clauses** and other appropriate measures so your data is protected to European standards.

## Related links

* [Privacy Policy](https://shortpen.com/privacy-policy/)
* [Cookie Policy](https://shortpen.com/cookie-policy/)
* [Terms & Conditions](https://shortpen.com/terms-and-conditions/)
* [How to update your ShortPen profile, email and password](/account-billing-security/account-settings/profile-settings)