**Effective Date:** Aug 2025

**Last Updated:** Aug 2025

Parkchive helps you collect virtual stamps when visiting national parks and create lasting memories with photos and notes. We're committed to protecting your privacy while delivering the park exploration experience you love. This policy explains exactly what data we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have about your information.

What information do we collect and why

**Location data through MapKit**

We access your current location when you use Parkchive to find nearby national parks and collect virtual stamps at park locations. This precise GPS data enables core app functionality like verifying you're at a park to earn stamps and showing relevant parks on your map. We use Apple's MapKit framework, which means location requests are processed through Apple's secure infrastructure.

**Your park memories and content**

When you collect stamps, add photos, or write notes about your park visits, we store this user-generated content to provide your personal park collection. This includes images from your

photo library (with your permission), text notes you write, and stamp collection data showing which parks you've visited and when.

**Purchase and subscription information**

If you buy additional virtual stamps or subscribe to premium features, we collect transaction data necessary to process payments and manage your subscription. Apple handles payment processing, and we receive confirmation of successful purchases without accessing your credit card details.

**Device and usage information**

We use TelemetryDeck to collect anonymized usage data. This helps us understand how our

users are using our app and how we can improve it. TelemetryDeck does not collect any personally identifiable information. You can read more about TelemetryDeck's privacy policy at https://telemetrydeck.com/privacy.

How we use your information

**Core app functionality**

Your location data enables stamp collection verification and park discovery features. Your photos, notes, and stamp data create your personal park archive. Purchase data manages your subscription benefits and available stamps.

**App improvement**

Anonymized usage analytics help us understand which features are most valuable, identify technical issues, and prioritize improvements. This data cannot be traced back to individual users.

**iCloud backup and syncing**

With your permission, your stamps, photos, and notes automatically back up to your personal iCloud account. This keeps your park memories safe and synced across your devices. We cannot access your iCloud data—only you control it through your Apple account.

Information sharing and third parties

**We do not sell your personal information.** Here's who we work with:

**Apple services**: Location data is processed through Apple's MapKit. Purchase data goes through Apple's App Store. iCloud backup uses Apple's secure infrastructure. Apple provides privacy protections for all these services under its privacy policy.

**TelemetryDeck**: Receives only anonymized usage data that cannot identify individual users. Based in the Netherlands with GDPR-compliant practices.

**Legal requirements**: We may disclose information if required by law, court order, or to protect safety, but only the minimum necessary information.

Your data control and rights

**Location permissions**

Control location access through iOS Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > Parkchive. You can choose "Never," "Ask Next Time," "While Using App," or "Always." Parkchive works best with "While Using App" permission.

**iCloud backup control**

Manage iCloud syncing through iOS Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud. Toggle Parkchive on/off to control whether your park data backs up to iCloud.

**Data deletion**

Delete individual stamps, photos, or notes directly in the app.

International users and children

**For users in the European Union**

We process your data based on your consent for location services and content creation, our

legitimate interest in app functionality and improvement, and contractual necessity for purchases. You have rights to access, correct, delete, port, restrict processing of, and object to the use of your personal data. Contact us to exercise these rights or withdraw consent.

**For California users**

You have rights to know what personal information we collect, delete your information, and opt-out of information sales (though we don't sell data). We don't discriminate against users exercising privacy rights. Contact us to submit requests.

**Children under 13**

Parkchive is designed for general audiences. We don't knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. If you believe a child has provided us information, contact us immediately and we'll delete it.

Data security and retention

**Security measures**

Your data is protected using industry-standard encryption during transmission and storage. iCloud data receives Apple's security protections. Location data is processed securely through Apple's MapKit framework.

**How long do we keep data**

- **Active account data**: Stored while your account remains active

- **Usage analytics**: Anonymized data may be retained up to 3 years for improvement purposes

- **Transaction records**: Kept for 7 years for financial and tax compliance

- **Deleted data**: Permanently removed within 30 days of deletion request

**International transfers**

Your data may be processed in the United States and other countries where our service providers operate. For EU users, we use appropriate safeguards like Standard Contractual Clauses to protect your data during international transfers.

Changes to this policy

We'll notify you of significant privacy policy changes through app notifications or email. Continued use of Parkchive after changes means you accept the updated policy. You can always review the current policy in the app settings.

Your privacy choices summary

- **Control location access** through iOS Settings

- **Manage iCloud backup** through iOS Settings

- **Delete stamps and notes** directly in the app

- **Opt out of analytics** through app settings (optional feature)

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This privacy policy is designed to be clear and comprehensive while meeting legal requirements. We regularly review and update our privacy practices to ensure we're protecting your information and respecting your choices while you explore America's beautiful national parks.