SpotAPaw (“we,” “our,” or “us”) respects your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, process, store, and protect your information when you use the SpotAPaw mobile application (the “App”).
By using the App, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.
Information We Collect
We collect only the information necessary to operate the App.
A. Pet Sighting Reports
When you submit a sighting report, we collect:
- Photo: The image you choose to upload. We do not access or collect other photos from your device.
- Location Data: Collected only at the time you submit a sighting report to identify where the pet was seen.
- Pet Description & Report Details: Information you enter into the report form (such as breed, color, time, and other relevant details).
B. AI Photo Processing (Google Gemini)
When you upload a photo, the image is analyzed using artificial intelligence technology provided by Google Gemini (a service operated by Google).
This processing is used solely to generate suggested pet description details to assist you in completing your sighting report.
In connection with this feature:
- Uploaded photos may be transmitted securely to Google for processing.
- We use the paid commercial API version of Google Gemini.
- Data processed through this API is not used by us to train public AI models.
- We do not sell or license your photos to third parties.
- AI-generated suggestions are provided for assistance only and must be reviewed by you before submission.
- Google processes data in accordance with its applicable data protection and security commitments.
C. Information We Do NOT Collect
We do not collect or store:
- Continuous or background location data
- Access to your entire photo library
- Private messages or chat history (chat functionality has been removed)
- Biometric identifiers
How We Use Information
We use collected information to:
- Create and display pet sighting reports to other users
- Enable AI-assisted description suggestions
- Improve the functionality and reliability of the App
- Maintain safety and prevent misuse
We do not:
- Sell your personal information
- Use your data for targeted advertising
- Share your data with advertisers
Data Retention
We retain data only as long as necessary to operate the App.
- Sighting Reports: Stored until marked resolved, or deemed no longer relevant.
- Uploaded Photos: Stored as part of the sighting report.
- AI Processing Data: Images may be temporarily processed for AI analysis. Any temporary processing by service providers is governed by contractual safeguards.
We may retain limited information as required to comply with legal obligations or resolve disputes.
Permissions
The App requests the following permissions:
- Camera & Photos: Used only when you choose to upload or capture a photo for a sighting report.
- Location: Used only at the time you create a sighting report.
You may manage these permissions in the App or your device settings at any time.
Security
We take reasonable measures to protect your data from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure.
Children's Privacy
Our app is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we learn that we have collected personal information from a child under 13, we will delete it.
Your Rights
- Request access to personal information we hold about you
- Request deletion of your information
- Request correction of inaccurate information
To exercise these rights, contact us at the email below.
Changes to this Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by updating the “Effective Date” at the top of this page.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
spotapaw@spotapaw.com