Privacy Policy
Last Updated: December 12, 2024
Introduction
I ("Anwer Solangi", the developer) am committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect information when you use the Nearby mobile application (the "App"). Nearby is a location-based social discovery app that helps you connect with people around you. I take your privacy seriously and am transparent about how your data is handled.
Information I Collect
To provide location-based services, the following information is collected:
Account Information
When you create an account, the app collects: • Email address (for authentication) • Profile name and photo (optional) • Authentication credentials via Firebase Authentication You may also sign in using Google or Facebook, in which case basic profile information is received from those services.
Location Data
Nearby requires access to your device's location to function. The app collects: • Your GPS coordinates when you use the app • Location updates to show your position on the map IMPORTANT: Your location data is used ONLY to display your position on the in-app map so other users can discover you nearby. I do NOT share your location data with any third-party services or advertisers.
Chat and Messages
When you use the messaging feature: • Messages are stored in Firebase Realtime Database • Images shared in chat are stored in Firebase Cloud Storage • Chat history is retained to provide message synchronization across devices
How Your Information Is Used
The collected information is used for the following purposes:
- Display your location on the map for nearby discovery
- Enable real-time chat with other users
- Authenticate your identity and secure your account
- Send push notifications for new messages
- Improve the app experience and fix bugs
I do NOT sell, rent, or share your personal information or location data with third parties for their marketing purposes.
Third-Party Services
Nearby uses the following third-party services:
Firebase (Google)
The app uses Firebase for backend infrastructure: • Firebase Authentication - For secure user login • Firebase Realtime Database - For storing user profiles and chat messages • Firebase Cloud Storage - For storing profile pictures and shared images • Firebase Cloud Messaging - For push notifications Firebase is operated by Google. Learn more about Firebase privacy at: https://firebase.google.com/support/privacy
Google AdMob
Advertisements are displayed through Google AdMob. AdMob may collect: • Device advertising identifiers • General location (country/region level, derived from IP) • Device information for ad personalization Note: AdMob does NOT have access to your precise GPS location. You can opt out of personalized advertising in your device settings. Learn more: https://policies.google.com/privacy
Data Security
Appropriate security measures are implemented to protect your information:
- All data transmission is encrypted using HTTPS/TLS
- Firebase provides enterprise-grade security for data storage
- Authentication tokens are securely managed
- Security practices are regularly reviewed and updated
Your Privacy Controls
You have control over your data:
- You can hide your location by going offline in the app
- You can delete your chat history
- You can delete your account and all associated data
- You can opt out of personalized ads in device settings
- You can revoke location permissions in your device settings
Data Retention
Your account data is retained for as long as your account is active. If you delete your account, your personal data, including your location history and chat messages, will be deleted within 30 days. Some anonymized data may be retained for analytics purposes.
Children's Privacy
Nearby is not intended for children under 13 years of age. I do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If I discover that a child under 13 has provided personal information, I will delete it immediately.
Changes to This Policy
I may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. I will notify you of any significant changes through the app or via email. Your continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
Contact Me
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or data practices, please contact me at:
me@anwersolangi.com