How to keep your code private with Cursor AI

Why Privacy Matters with Cursor AI

Cursor AI helps developers work with their code using AI. But when you're dealing with code, especially sensitive projects or ones under NDAs, you need to be sure your data stays private. You don't want your code ending up where it shouldn't. That's why Cursor AI has strong privacy features to protect your work.

Understanding Cursor AI's Privacy Mode

Privacy Mode is a key feature in Cursor AI. It makes sure none of your code is stored or kept by Cursor AI. Think of it like closing the blinds when you're working on something secret. With Privacy Mode on, you're in control of your code and who sees it.

Why Turn On Privacy Mode?

If you're working on sensitive or proprietary projects, Privacy Mode is a must. It keeps your code from being stored elsewhere. Whether you're coding for fun or handling important work, it's better to be safe. No one wants their code floating around where it doesn't belong.

Is Privacy Mode Free?

Yes! Privacy Mode is available to everyone, even on the free version of Cursor AI. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, you can use this feature. Business users get extra benefits, like no data retention by Cursor AI's partners, OpenAI or Anthropic. This means your data isn't kept at all.

How to Turn On Privacy Mode

Turning on Privacy Mode is easy. You can enable it when you first set up Cursor AI. If you missed it, just go to Settings > General > Privacy Mode and switch it on. Once it's on, you don't have to worry about your code being stored.

What Happens with Privacy Mode On?

With Privacy Mode enabled, Cursor AI won't store any of your code. It processes everything locally and doesn't keep any code after it's done. No leftover snippets, no worries. It's like using a whiteboard that wipes itself clean after you're finished.

What's Data Indexing?

Data indexing is a feature that helps Cursor AI work faster. When it's on, Cursor AI uploads small bits of your code to create summaries, which helps it find parts of your code quickly. But don't worry, it doesn't keep the actual code text after it's done.

Should You Turn Off Data Indexing?

If you're extra cautious about privacy, you might want to turn off data indexing. When it's off, Cursor AI won't upload any code automatically. But you can still manually index your data when you need to by clicking "Compute Index." So you still get the benefits when you want them.

How to Manually Index Your Data

If you've turned off automatic indexing but still want to use it sometimes, it's simple. Just click the "Compute Index" button when you need it. Cursor AI will upload a small piece of your code to create a summary, helping it work faster. It's like ordering food only when you're hungry.

Using Your Own API Key

Cursor AI lets you use your own API key. But remember, even with your own key, your requests still go through Cursor AI's backend to build the final prompt. So if you're using your own key to avoid data sharing, keep in mind this step still happens.

Does Cursor AI Store Code with Your Own API Key?

Using your own API key might make you feel more in control, but your requests still pass through Cursor AI's system. This step is needed to make things work, and your code is handled securely. If you're concerned, keep Privacy Mode on to make sure nothing is stored.

What's Local/Ghost Mode?

Local/Ghost Mode is another privacy feature that keeps all processing on your computer. None of your code is sent to external servers. It's useful when you're working on very sensitive projects and want everything to stay on your device.

What is SOC 2 Certification?

Cursor AI is SOC 2 certified, which means it has passed strict audits to show it handles data securely. This certification is a big deal in data security. It means you can trust that Cursor AI takes your privacy seriously.

How Does Cursor AI Handle Data Retention?

Cursor AI makes sure business users' data isn't stored at all. For other users, its partners may keep prompts for up to 30 days for safety reasons, like troubleshooting. But they keep this to a minimum. Business users don't have to worry about any data being kept.

Will Cursor AI's Privacy Policy Change?

Privacy policies can change, so it's a good idea to check Cursor AI's policy on their website from time to time. That way, you'll know how your data is being handled and won't be surprised by any changes.

Keeping Your Code Safe with Cursor AI

Cursor AI offers several features to keep your code private. Whether you use Privacy Mode, turn off data indexing, or use Local/Ghost Mode, you have options to protect your work. In a world where privacy is important, it's good to have tools that respect your data. So whether you're coding for fun or working on secret projects, Cursor AI helps keep your code safe.

FAQs

1. Can I use Cursor AI without Privacy Mode?
   Yes, but it's safer to turn Privacy Mode on. Without it, some data might be stored temporarily.
2. Is Privacy Mode free to use?
   Yes, Privacy Mode is available to all users, even on the free version.
3. What happens if I turn off data indexing?
   Cursor AI won't upload code automatically for processing. But you can still manually index code when you want.
4. Does Local/Ghost Mode stop all data from going out?
   Yes, in this mode, all processing happens on your device, and no data is sent out.
5. Will the privacy policy change?
   It might. It's a good idea to check the policy on Cursor AI's website to stay updated.