Data Usage Policy

Last Updated: October 13, 2025

Overview

This policy explains what data we collect, why we collect it, and how we use it to provide and improve Trail Talk.

Data We Collect

Account Data

• Email address, username, password (encrypted)
• Profile information (name, photo, bio, location)
• Why: To create and manage your account

Content Data

• Posts, photos, videos, comments, messages
• Why: To enable content sharing and communication

Usage Data

• Posts viewed, likes, follows, searches
• Features used and time spent in app
• Why: To improve the app and personalize your experience

Device Data

• Device type, OS version, IP address
• Why: To ensure compatibility and security

Location Data

• Approximate location (from IP) or precise location (if you grant permission)
• Why: To show local content and enable location tagging

How We Use Your Data

Provide the Service

• Display your posts and profile to other users
• Enable messaging and interactions
• Process your requests and provide support

Improve the Service

• Analyze usage patterns to add new features
• Fix bugs and technical issues
• Optimize performance

Personalize Experience

• Show relevant content in your feed
• Suggest users to follow
• Recommend groups and contests

Security & Safety

• Detect and prevent fraud
• Enforce our Terms and Community Guidelines
• Protect against abuse and spam

Communications

• Send notifications about your account activity
• Respond to support inquiries
• Send updates about Trail Talk (you can opt out)

Data Retention

• Active accounts: Data retained while your account is active
• Deleted accounts: Most data deleted within 30 days
• Legal requirements: Some data retained longer for legal/regulatory purposes
• Backups: Data in backups deleted within 90 days

Data Sharing

We only share your data when necessary:

• With other users: Based on your privacy settings
• With service providers: Cloud hosting, analytics (under strict agreements)
• For legal reasons: When required by law or to protect rights and safety
• With your consent: For any other purposes

Your Data Rights

• Access: View all data we have about you
• Export: Download your data in a portable format
• Correction: Update incorrect information
• Deletion: Delete your account and associated data
• Opt-out: Disable data collection for certain purposes

To exercise these rights, contact us at support@trailtalk.io or use in-app settings.

Third-Party Services

We use trusted third-party services that may collect data:

• Analytics: To understand app usage
• Cloud Storage: To host your content securely
• Push Notifications: To send you updates

These services have their own privacy policies and are bound by our data protection agreements.

Children's Data

Trail Talk is not for children under 13. We don't knowingly collect data from children under 13. If you believe a child has provided data, contact us immediately.

International Users

Trail Talk is based in the United States. By using the app, you consent to data transfer to the US. We comply with applicable data protection laws including GDPR for EU users.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy as we add new features or comply with new regulations. We'll notify you of material changes.