Privacy Policy

Last updated: December 2, 2025

1. Introduction

Welcome to Waterfall Trails. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you use our application. We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal data.

2. Data We Collect

2.1 Data You Provide:

Name and email address (when creating an account)
Profile photo (optional)
Bio and social media links (optional)
Photos and comments about waterfalls
Trip plans and favorites lists
Messages sent to other users

2.2 Automatically Collected Data:

GPS location data (when enabled by the user)
Recorded trails and routes (when enabled by the user)
App usage data
Device type and operating system

3. Use of Location

Our application may request access to your location for the following features:

Waterfall Discovery: Show waterfalls near you
Trail Recording: Track your hiking routes
Trail Match: Find other users who crossed your path
Check-in: Record your presence at locations

Important: Location access is entirely optional and you can disable it at any time in your device settings. The app works normally without location access.

4. How We Use Your Data

Provide and improve our services
Personalize your in-app experience
Enable interaction with other users
Send notifications about relevant activities
Process subscription payments (via Stripe)
Ensure application security
Comply with legal obligations

5. Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data.

We may share information with:

Other Users: According to your privacy settings (public profile, photos, etc.)
Payment Processors: Stripe, to process subscriptions
Service Providers: For hosting and technical infrastructure
Authorities: When required by law

6. Data Security

All communications are encrypted via HTTPS/TLS
Data stored on secure servers with encryption
Secure authentication with JWT tokens
Passwords are never stored in plain text
Access to data restricted to authorized personnel only

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

Access: Request a copy of your personal data
Correct: Update incorrect information
Delete: Request complete deletion of your account and data
Export: Download your data in a portable format
Revoke Consent: Withdraw permissions at any time

How to Delete Your Account

To delete your account and all associated data, go to: Profile → Settings → Delete My Account. This action is irreversible and will permanently remove all your data.

8. Data Retention

We retain your data while your account is active. After account deletion, your data will be permanently removed within 30 days, except where retention is required by law or to resolve disputes.

9. Children

This application is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If you believe your child has provided us with personal data, please contact us for immediate removal.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify you of significant changes by email or through the application. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the new policy.

11. Contact

For questions about this Privacy Policy or to exercise your rights:

Email: support@waterfalltrails.com

Response Time: Up to 30 business days