Privacy Policy

Last updated: April 30, 2026

This Privacy Policy describes how Tracer ("we", "us", or "the App") collects, uses, and protects your information. By using Tracer you agree to the practices described below.

1. Information We Collect

Location Data

Tracer uses your device's GPS to track the areas you have explored. The App requests "Always" location permission so it can continue recording your path while running in the background. Your precise coordinates are converted into grid-cell identifiers on your device; raw GPS coordinates are not stored on our servers.

Anonymous Account Identifier

When you first open the App, an anonymous account is created automatically through Firebase Authentication. This generates a random user ID that is not linked to your name, email address, or any other personally identifiable information.

Exploration Data

The grid cells you have visited, along with the timestamp of each first visit, are stored both locally on your device (using SwiftData) and remotely in Google Cloud Firestore so that your progress is preserved. Unlocked region data is stored in the same manner.

2. How We Use Your Information

• To display the map areas you have explored and calculate your progress.
• To persist your exploration data across app sessions and device restarts.
• To sync your data to the cloud so it can be restored if you reinstall the App.

We do not use your data for advertising, profiling, or analytics beyond basic Firebase service operation.

3. Data Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal data with third parties. Your exploration data is stored in Google Cloud Firestore, which is governed by Google's Firebase privacy practices. No other third-party services receive your data.

4. Data Retention

Your exploration data is retained for as long as you use the App. You may delete your data at any time from within the App, which removes it from both your device and our servers.

5. Data Security

All communication between the App and Firestore is encrypted in transit using TLS. Data at rest in Firestore is encrypted by Google Cloud's default encryption. Your anonymous user ID cannot be traced back to your identity.

6. Children's Privacy

Tracer is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided us with data, please contact us so we can delete it.

7. Your Rights

• Access: You can view all your exploration data within the App.
• Deletion: You can delete your data from within the App or by contacting us.
• Opt out: You can revoke location permissions at any time in your device's Settings, which stops all location data collection.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with a revised "Last updated" date. Continued use of the App after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

9. Contact Us

If you have questions or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:

Email: YOUR_EMAIL@example.com