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Privacy Policy

Last updated: December 2024

Overview

NAO is designed with privacy as a core principle. We collect minimal data, never share your information with third parties, and give you full control over your presence on the map.

What We Collect

Device Identifier

When you first use NAO, we generate a random unique identifier (UUID) that is stored locally on your device. This identifier:

  • Is not linked to your personal identity
  • Is not shared with any third parties
  • Is used only to manage your signal and prevent abuse
  • Is stored securely on your device using platform-native secure storage

Location Data

When you create a NAO, we use your location so others can see where something is happening right now. Here’s how we protect your privacy:

  • Live only: Exact location is shown only while a NAO is live. When it expires, the location is no longer visible or accessible.
  • Ephemeral storage: Location data is stored only for the lifetime of the NAO (15, 30, or 60 minutes). After expiry, it is automatically removed.
  • Anonymous by default: NAOs are not tied to a public identity. No profiles or personal details are exposed.
  • No tracking: We do not track your location over time or build movement histories.

Signal Tags

If you choose to add tags to your signal (like "coffee" or "walk"), these are stored temporarily with your signal and deleted when the signal expires.

What We Don't Collect

  • Your name, email, or any personal information
  • Your phone number or contacts
  • Browsing history or app usage patterns
  • Any data from other apps on your device

How We Use Your Data

We use the minimal data we collect solely to:

  • Display your signal to nearby users
  • Allow you to stop your signal
  • Prevent abuse through rate limiting
  • Process reports of inappropriate behavior

Data Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or share your data with any third parties. Period.

The only information visible to other users is your exact map pin while the signal is live and any tags you've chosen to display.

Data Retention

  • Active Signals: Stored only for the duration you select (15, 30, or 60 minutes)
  • Expired Signals: Not returned in any queries after expiration
  • Reports: Stored to maintain platform safety and prevent abuse

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Stop your signal at any time with a single tap
  • Delete the app and all locally stored data
  • Use the app without creating an account

Security

We implement appropriate technical measures to protect your data:

  • All data transmission is encrypted using HTTPS/TLS
  • Device identifiers are stored using platform-native secure storage
  • Exact coordinates are only stored temporarily and removed once the timer expires
  • Rate limiting prevents abuse and protects the service

Children's Privacy

NAO is not intended for users under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect information from children.

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 on this page and updating the "Last updated" date.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at privacy@nao.app