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Privacy Policy

This policy explains how the HoodCat app collects, uses, and protects your personal data. By using the app, you agree to the practices described below.

1. Data controller

HoodCat is published by the HoodCat project team. You can contact us at: hoodcat.info@gmail.com.

2. Data collected

  • Account identifiers: email address, password (handled by Firebase Authentication), chosen username.
  • Geolocation data: GPS position to display your location on the map and trigger lost-zone alerts when the app is open or running in background (with your permission).
  • Published content: pins, photos, comments, lost-pet zones, and local preferences stored on your device.
  • Notifications: your choice to be contacted by email along with the status of your push permissions.

3. Purpose of processing

  • Authenticate users and secure access to the app.
  • Display and sync community contributions (photos, pins, zones).
  • Notify you about nearby events (location-based alerts, notifications), including zone-entry alerts in background mode.
  • Send you a newsletter or information emails when you opt in.

4. Analytics and cookies

We use Google Analytics via Google Tag Manager to measure audience and improve HoodCat. Analytics cookies are only set after your consent in the cookie banner. You can refuse or withdraw your consent at any time; your choice is stored locally to remember it.

5. Legal basis

Processing is based on providing the service (authentication, content display) and, when required, on your explicit consent (notifications, emails, location access).

6. Recipients and processors

Data is hosted on Google Firebase services (Authentication, Firestore, Storage) and on Hive locally on your device. Data is neither sold nor shared with other third parties without your explicit consent.

7. Data retention

Account information is retained while your profile remains active. Community content (pins, zones, comments) stays visible until you or an admin remove it. Locally stored data can be deleted via "Reset my local data" or by uninstalling the app.

8. Your rights

  • Access, rectify, or delete your data from the app settings.
  • Withdraw consent for emails and notifications in their respective settings.
  • Delete your account via "Delete my account" or by emailing hoodcat.info@gmail.com.

9. Security

We use Firebase's security mechanisms (secure authentication, Firestore/Storage rules) and limit internal access to authorized team members. Please secure your device with a passcode or biometrics.

10. Geographic location

Because HoodCat is a local service, your data may be processed in the European Union and by our processors located in the European Economic Area or the United States (Firebase). We ensure adequate safeguards (standard contractual clauses) are in place.

11. Policy updates

We may update this policy to reflect changes to our services. Major changes will be announced in the app. Last updated February 10, 2026.

Contact

For any questions or to exercise your rights, email us at hoodcat.info@gmail.com.