Introduction
WhereAbouts ("we," "our," or "us") is a location-sharing application that helps friends stay connected by sharing their locations with each other. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use our mobile application.
By using WhereAbouts, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.
Information We Collect
1. Account Information
- Email address
- Display name
- Username
- Profile color preference
2. Location Data
- Your precise GPS location (latitude, longitude)
- Location accuracy and timestamp
- Location is collected in the background when you enable "Always" location sharing
3. Social Information
- Friend connections you create
- Check-in locations and messages you share
- Status updates (Active, Away, Busy, etc.)
4. Device Information
- Device token for push notifications
- Device type and operating system version
How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Display your location to friends you've approved
- Send you notifications about friend requests and updates
- Show you your friends' locations on the map
- Enable check-in features and "I'm Coming" responses
- Improve and maintain the app
How Your Information Is Shared
Your Information Is Shared With:
- Friends You Approve - Your location is ONLY visible to friends you accept. Your status and check-ins are visible to your friends. You control who can see your location.
- Service Providers - Firebase (Google) for authentication, database, and notifications. Apple for maps and location services.
Your Information Is NOT: Sold to third parties, used for advertising, or shared with anyone you haven't approved as a friend.
Location Data
Background Location:
When you enable "Always" location sharing, WhereAbouts collects your location even when the app is closed. This allows your friends to see your current location.
You Control Your Location:
- You can turn off location sharing at any time in Settings
- You can switch to "While Using" to only share when the app is open
- When location sharing is off, friends see you as "Unavailable"
Data Storage and Security
Your data is stored securely using Firebase (Google Cloud Platform), which provides:
- Encrypted data transmission (HTTPS/TLS)
- Secure cloud storage
- Authentication protection
We retain your data as long as you have an active account. You can delete your account and data at any time.
Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Access your personal data
- Update or correct your information
- Delete your account and all associated data
- Turn off location sharing at any time
- Remove friends and revoke their access to your location
To exercise these rights, use the in-app settings or contact us at the email below.
Children's Privacy
WhereAbouts is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.
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 Privacy Policy in the app and updating the "Last Updated" date.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Email: support@whereabouts.live
By using WhereAbouts, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy.