Content use and privacy - data to be permanently deleted from CapCut servers

Hi,

It is completely understandable that you are concerned about your privacy and want to ensure your data is permanently deleted from CapCut's servers, especially given the recent updates to the terms of service and your lack of notification. Even if you've deleted the app and account from your device, it's crucial to take further steps to request server-side deletion.

To formally request permanent deletion of your data from CapCut's servers and ensure your privacy is protected, follow these steps.

Here's how you can proceed to maximize your chances of getting all your data, photos, videos, and personal content permanently deleted from CapCut's servers:

1. Formal Data Deletion Request (Most Important Step):

Since you've deleted your CapCut account and app, you still need to formally request data erasure. CapCut is owned by ByteDance, the same company that owns TikTok, and is obligated under data protection laws (such as GDPR) to respond to such requests.

• Email CapCut Support: This is the most direct and effective way to request data deletion. Send a clear and concise email to CapCut's support team.

  • Email Address: [email protected]

  • Subject Line: "Data Deletion Request - [Your Username/Email Linked to Account]" (Replace with your actual username or the email address linked to your CapCut/TikTok account).

  • Email Content: Be explicit about your request. Include the following:

    • State that you are formally requesting the permanent deletion of your CapCut account and all associated personal data, including but not limited to photos, videos, drafts, cloud-stored content, and any linked information.

    • Mention that your account was linked to your TikTok account.

    • Specify the email address or username associated with your CapCut/TikTok account.

    • Clearly state that you do not agree to the CapCut's updated Terms of Service and wish for all your data to be purged.

    • Request confirmation of the deletion once the process is complete.

    • If applicable to your region (e.g., if you are in the EU with GDPR rights, or certain US states with specific privacy laws), you can cite your right to data erasure under those regulations. For example, if you're in the US, you could mention: "In accordance with applicable privacy laws, I am exercising my right to data erasure."

    • You can cite GDPR Article 17 (Right to Erasure) in your email to make the request legally binding.

• Example Email Draft:

I am writing to request the permanent deletion of all data associated with my CapCut account, which was linked to my TikTok account. I have already deleted the CapCut app and account from my device. I have not used the app recently, nor was I notified of the updated Terms of Service.

As I have not posted anything publicly and my account is private, I am concerned about the privacy and potential use of my personal content.

I respectfully request that all photos, videos, projects, drafts, account data, and personal information associated with my CapCut account be permanently deleted from your servers.

Please confirm when this request has been fulfilled.

2. Email ByteDance (for Formal GDPR-like Requests)

If you want an extra layer of assurance, send an email directly to ByteDance’s data privacy team:

• Email: [email protected]

• Subject: "CapCut Data Deletion Request – Linked TikTok Account"

• Use the same message as above.

3. Follow Up and Keep Records:

• Screenshot Everything: If you had any in-app record of your account or settings before deletion, take screenshots. While you've already deleted the app, if you ever reinstall it just to check (though not recommended for privacy if you're worried about accidental re-engagement), take screenshots of any deletion confirmation.

• Save Email Correspondence: Keep a thorough record of all emails you send to and receive from CapCut support. This serves as proof of your request.

• Monitor for Confirmation: CapCut should respond to your data deletion request. Be patient, as it might take some time (they often state deletion happens "in accordance with applicable law" and backups may persist for a "reasonable time").

4. Check If Your TikTok Data Is Also Linked

Since your CapCut account was connected via TikTok:

• Open TikTok app > Profile > Settings > Security > Apps and Websites

• Revoke any CapCut or ByteDance-related connections.

5. Considerations and Reality Check (as per CapCut's terms and common practices):

• "Permanent" Deletion: While you are requesting permanent deletion, understand that most companies' terms, including CapCut's, often state that data might persist in backups for a "reasonable time" or for legal compliance.

• AI Training Data: There's a concern that content already processed for AI training might remain. The updated terms also give them broad licenses for "User Content." While requesting deletion covers your explicit content, be aware of this possibility.

• Sublicensed Content: If any of your content was ever used to create public templates or shared in a way that falls under sublicensing, it might not be recalled, as per their terms. However, since you mentioned your account was private and you haven't posted anything publicly, this risk is minimized.

By sending a formal, well-documented data deletion request via email, you are taking the most significant step to ensure your privacy concerns are addressed and your data is removed from CapCut's servers.