Introduction
PetQlix ("we," "our," or "us") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our mobile application PetQlix ("the App").
Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. By using the App, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.
1. Information We Collect
1.1 Information You Provide Directly
Account Information:
- Name (first and last)
- Email address
- Username
- Password (encrypted)
- Date of birth
- Gender (optional)
- Phone number (optional)
- Profile picture
- Bio/description
- Location (city/state)
Pet Information:
- Pet names
- Pet types/breeds
- Pet photos and videos
- Pet birthdates
- Pet descriptions
Content You Create:
- Posts (text, photos, videos)
- Comments on posts
- Messages to other users
- Story content
- Likes and reactions
- Friend requests
1.2 Information Collected Automatically
Device Information:
- Device type and model
- Operating system version
- Unique device identifiers
- Mobile network information
- IP address
Usage Information:
- App features you use
- Time spent in the app
- Crash reports and performance data
- Search queries
Location Information:
- GPS location (if you grant permission)
- Approximate location from IP address
2. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide, maintain, and improve the App
- Create and manage your account
- Enable social features (following, messaging, etc.)
- Send you notifications about activity in the app
- Respond to your requests and provide customer support
- Analyze usage patterns and improve user experience
- Prevent fraud and maintain security
- Comply with legal obligations
3. How We Share Your Information
3.1 Information Shared Publicly
- Your profile (name, username, photo, bio)
- Public posts and stories
- Comments on public content
- Likes on public content
3.2 Information Shared with Other Users
- Your posts (based on privacy settings: Public/Friends/Private)
- Direct messages you send
- Friend connections
3.3 Service Providers
We share information with third-party service providers who help us operate our app:
- Firebase (Google): Authentication, database storage, file storage, push notifications, analytics
- Google Maps: Location services, map display
- Expo: App development platform, push notifications
3.4 Legal Requirements
We may disclose your information if required by law or in response to:
- Court orders or subpoenas
- Law enforcement requests
- Protection of our rights or safety of others
- Prevention of fraud or security issues
4. Your Privacy Rights
4.1 Access and Portability
- Request a copy of your personal data
- Export your data in a portable format
4.2 Correction and Deletion
- Update your profile information in app settings
- Delete your account and all associated data
4.3 Privacy Settings
- Control who can see your posts (Public/Friends/Private)
- Control who can message you
- Enable/disable location sharing
- Manage notification preferences
5. Data Security
We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your information:
- Encrypted data transmission (HTTPS/SSL)
- Secure password storage (hashed and salted)
- Firebase Security Rules to control data access
- Regular security audits
Note: While we strive to protect your information, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.
6. Data Retention
We retain your information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. When you delete your account, we delete your personal information within 30 days, except where we are required to retain it for legal purposes.
7. Children's Privacy (COPPA Compliance)
PetQlix is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately.
8. International Data Transfers
Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your own. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in accordance with this Privacy Policy.
9. Changes to Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes via email or in-app notification. The "Last Updated" date will be revised accordingly.
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:
Email: privacy@petqlix.com
Support: support@petqlix.com