Do you really need all the permissions you ask for while installing Paperpal's Google Docs add-on?

Below, we explain why each of those permissions is required, and why it’s absolutely safe for you to allow them:

See, edit, create documents:
 This permission allows Paperpal to analyze the text in your Google Doc, identify errors, and suggest improvements directly within the document. Without this access, the tool wouldn’t be able to provide the real-time editing experience it’s designed for. However, it’s important to emphasize that:

• Paperpal does not store, share, or retain your document content.
• All processing happens securely in real time within the Google Docs context.
• Your documents remain private, and only you control their content.
  
  

Upload/download/delete your documents: 

• Paperpal cannot and will not upload, download, or delete your documents.
• This permission is part of Google’s bundled API scope for editing functionality, which allows Paperpal to suggest and apply changes directly to your document. It does not mean Paperpal has independent control over your files.
  
  

See the names and emails of collaborators:
 This permission is necessary for Paperpal to function in shared documents. For example, if you’re co-writing with colleagues, this ensures the add-on works seamlessly across all collaborators. However:

• Paperpal does not access, use, or process collaborator names or email addresses.
• Your collaborators won’t receive any communication or advertisements from us.
  
  

Share and stop sharing your documents:
This permission is included as part of Google’s full edit access scope, which is required for any add-on that needs to interact with your document content. For example, to suggest edits, apply changes, or function in shared documents, the add-on must have a broad level of access to ensure all necessary features work seamlessly. While this permission might sound like it allows unrestricted actions, Paperpal is specifically designed to only use it for the purpose of enhancing your document as you write. Thus, be assured that: 

• Paperpal does not use this permission to change your sharing settings.
• Your documents will never be shared with anyone unless you explicitly choose to do so.

To sum up,  we assure you that:

• Paperpal does not store your data: All document processing is temporary and happens during your session only.
• No unauthorized actions: We don’t change sharing settings, access collaborator details, or perform any actions without your direct input.
• Your content is yours: We do not store, share, or use your data beyond the purpose of providing you with real-time suggestions.

We’d also like to mention here that the add-on has been verified by Google through their rigorous OAuth verification process. This means that Google has carefully reviewed the permissions we request and confirmed that Paperpal meets their high security and privacy standards. These permissions are standard for Google Workspace add-ons, and Paperpal is hosted on the Google Workspace Marketplace only because it meets all the required security credentials. 

If you have more questions or would like additional clarifications, please send us an email at [email protected].