Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

We collect several types of information to provide and improve our service:

Personal Information

• Name and email address (when you create an account)
• Profile information you choose to share
• Photos and content you post to the platform
• Communication preferences

Technical Information

• Device information and operating system
• IP address and location data (with your consent)
• App usage patterns and interactions
• Crash reports and performance data

Cultural Information

• Indigenous affiliation (if you choose to share)
• Cultural knowledge and stories you contribute
• Community connections and relationships

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide and maintain the Rooted Trails service
• Connect you with other community members
• Personalize your experience and content
• Communicate with you about service updates
• Improve our features and user experience
• Ensure community safety and cultural respect
• Comply with legal obligations

3. Data Protection and Security

We take data security seriously and implement multiple layers of protection:

Firebase Security

• Google Firebase backend with enterprise-grade security
• 256-bit AES encryption for data at rest
• TLS 1.3 encryption for data in transit
• SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA compliant infrastructure
• Regular security audits and penetration testing

Access Controls

• Strict authentication and authorization protocols
• Role-based access for our team members
• Regular security training for all staff
• Secure development practices

4. Information Sharing

We do not sell your personal information to third parties. We only share your information in limited circumstances:

• With your explicit consent
• To comply with legal requirements
• To protect community safety and prevent harm
• With trusted service providers who help us operate our service
• During business transfers (mergers, acquisitions)

5. Cultural Data Protection

We recognize the special importance of Indigenous cultural knowledge:

• Cultural content is treated with heightened protection
• Traditional knowledge is not shared without community consent
• We respect cultural protocols and data sovereignty
• Community elders have oversight of cultural content
• Sensitive cultural information is appropriately restricted

6. Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information
• Correct inaccurate information
• Delete your account and associated data
• Control what information you share
• Opt out of non-essential communications
• Request data portability
• Object to certain data processing

7. Data Retention

We retain your information only as long as necessary:

• Account information: Until you delete your account
• Content you post: Until you remove it (unless required for legal reasons)
• Technical data: Typically 12-24 months for service improvement
• Legal requirements: As required by applicable laws

8. Cookies and Tracking

Our mobile app may use similar technologies to cookies:

• Device identifiers for app functionality
• Analytics to understand usage patterns
• Crash reporting to improve app stability
• Push notifications for community updates

9. Children's Privacy

Rooted Trails is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that we have collected such information, we will delete it promptly.

10. International Data Transfers

Your data may be stored and processed in data centers outside your country. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international data transfers, including:

• Standard contractual clauses
• Adequacy decisions where applicable
• Compliance with applicable data transfer laws

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by:

• Posting the new policy in our app
• Sending email notifications for significant changes
• In-app notifications for policy updates

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or want to exercise your rights, please contact us:

Email: brad@rootedtrails.app

Subject: Privacy Policy Inquiry

We will respond to your inquiry within 30 days and work to address your concerns promptly.