Aether

Privacy

Privacy Policy

Aether is a self-hosted messaging client. You choose the Aether server you connect to, and that server operator controls the server-side data practices for accounts, routing, messages, files, reports, and retention.

Last updated: June 8, 2026

Short Version

  • Aether does not use third-party advertising or tracking.
  • Aether does not sell personal data.
  • The app stores account settings, contacts, messages, files, and diagnostics locally so the app can function.
  • Data sent to a server is handled by the server you choose. For servers not operated by pcfq.net, contact that server administrator.

Data the App May Process

Aether may process the following data for app functionality:

  • Account identifiers, such as username, user ID, and client ID.
  • Contact and device information returned by the connected server.
  • Messages, message metadata, file metadata, and transferred files.
  • Local app settings, local chat history, and local transfer state.
  • Local network discovery data used to find nearby Aether peers.
  • Abuse reports that a user chooses to submit.
  • Diagnostics generated locally by the app.

Self-Hosted Servers

Aether is designed for self-hosting. If you connect to a server run by yourself, your organization, your school, or another third party, that server operator is responsible for its account management, data retention, backup, moderation, abuse response, and legal compliance.

The Aether client cannot delete data from a third-party server unless that server provides and honors the relevant server-side operation.

pcfq.net Demo Service

If you use the pcfq.net demo service, including the default server address eth.pcfq.net, pcfq.net may process account identifiers, contacts, routing state, messages, files, and abuse reports as needed to provide the service, maintain reliability, protect users, and respond to abuse.

The demo service is intended for evaluation and App Review testing, not for storing sensitive long-term production data.

Permissions

Local Network

Aether uses local network access to discover nearby Aether peers and prefer LAN routes when possible.

Photos and Files

Aether accesses photos or files only when you choose attachments to send through a chat.

Notifications and Background Activity

Aether may use notifications and background activity to keep message state current and alert you about new events.

User Choices

  • You can choose which Aether server to connect to.
  • You can block users locally from contact details.
  • You can report abusive users from contact details.
  • You can remove local app data by deleting conversations or uninstalling the app.
  • For server-side account or data deletion, contact the operator of the server you use.

Contact