Nearu  Privacy Policy

1. Definitions

To ensure clarity, we define key terms used throughout this Policy:

• User: Refers to you as a user of the Services, whether for browsing, sharing, or utilizing any features of the App. A User is someone who accesses or uses the Services for any purpose related to sharing, displaying, hosting, publishing, transacting, or viewing information such as pictures or locations.
   

• User Account: A personalized account created upon registration in the App, containing identifiable information necessary for accessing the App's Services. This account includes details like your name, contact information, and preferences, which help in customizing your experience on the platform.
   

• Content: Refers to all forms of information or data that you provide or interact with while using the App. This includes but is not limited to, your profile information, location data, nearby places, search terms, and any other activity performed within the app ecosystem.
   

• Services: All features, functions, and content are provided through the Nearu Mobile App. Services include user communications, sharing data with people in your circle, displaying locations, and app interactions that enhance your experience.

 

2. What Information We Collect

We only collect data that is necessary for the proper functioning of our App and to ensure a high-quality user experience. Our goal is to gather just enough information to personalize your experience without overburdening you with data requests. The types of information we collect are as follows:

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2.1. Personal Information

Personal information refers to data that can identify an individual, either directly or indirectly. The following are examples of personal data we may collect and why they are essential to our services:

• Full Name: Collected during registration, this helps us identify users and personalize your account. This data ensures that users in your circle can properly identify you when interacting with you on the platform.
   

• Email Address: Your email serves as the primary method for login authentication. Additionally, it is used to send important notifications, such as updates to our privacy policy, new features in the app, and security alerts related to your account.
   

• Phone Number: This is used primarily for account verification, enabling two-factor authentication (if needed), and facilitating urgent communications. A verified phone number adds an additional layer of security to your account.
   

• Location Data: We collect your real-time location to provide location-based services, such as displaying nearby places and other users in your circle. Location data is essential for some of the App's core features, like showing users nearby or providing location-based notifications.
   

• Preferences and Settings: Your preferences (e.g., time zone, language) are collected to enhance your user experience. These preferences are saved to ensure the app operates smoothly for you, regardless of where you're using it or on which device. 

 

2.2. Device Information

Device-specific information is crucial for ensuring that the App runs efficiently on different platforms. Here’s what we may collect:

• Device Model and Operating System: Knowing the type of device you’re using (e.g., Android, iOS) helps us optimize our app for the best user experience, ensuring compatibility across devices and offering relevant updates or troubleshooting.
   

• Usage Data: This includes metrics on how long you use the App, which features you engage with, and your overall behavior while interacting with the App. Collecting this data helps us understand which areas of the App are most popular or need improvement.
   

• Internet Service Provider (ISP) Information: This information is automatically logged to help us identify connectivity issues and improve the App's performance. Knowing your ISP may assist in diagnosing connection-related problems.

 

2.3. Social Media Information

If you choose to connect your Nearu account with third-party services (such as Facebook or Google), we may collect relevant user data associated with those services. This may include:
 

• Social Media User ID: Used to connect your accounts quickly and securely. This enables you to log in faster and take advantage of a more seamless integration across services.
   

• Publicly Available Information: If you have made certain information publicly available on your social media profiles (e.g., profile picture, name), we may display these within the App to personalize your experience.

 

3. How We Gather Information

Understanding how and when we collect your information ensures transparency. Our collection methods include direct input, automated data collection, and third-party integration.

 

3.1. Direct Input from Users

When you actively provide data, such as during registration or while creating a user profile, you are directly inputting personal information into the system. This data helps us to:

• Verify your identity: Ensuring that we provide services to genuine users.

• Offer tailored experiences: By understanding your preferences, we can better curate content and services.

• Provide communication: We collect your email and phone number so that we can notify you about important updates or changes to your account.

3.2. Automated Data Collection

In addition to direct input, Nearu also collects information automatically through:

• Log Files: These record data about how you interact with the app, including your IP address, the time of access, and which parts of the app you use.

• Tracking Pixels and Beacons: These are small tracking tools embedded in the app to monitor user behavior and gather performance data. They help us enhance your experience by offering personalized recommendations or optimizing the app's performance.

• Google Analytics: We use analytics tools to assess how users engage with the app, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement.

 

3.3. Third-Party Services

By connecting your social media accounts, we may gather limited information from those platforms to offer you a more integrated experience. However, this is always done with your consent, and we do not access information beyond what is publicly available or what you have allowed us to access.

 

4. Purpose of Data Collection

We prioritize user experience, and the data we collect is designed to enhance the services we offer. Below are the specific reasons for collecting various types of data:

 

4.1. Service Provision

Your personal information allows us to offer essential services, such as:

• Creating and Managing Accounts: Your data enables us to verify your identity and provide personalized services, ensuring that you have full access to the app’s features.

• Providing Location-Based Services: The location data we collect helps us show nearby places or users and send relevant notifications based on your geographical location.

• Sending Notifications: By collecting your contact information, we can keep you informed of important updates, such as app improvements, policy changes, and other significant events.

 

4.2. Communication and Support

In cases where you need assistance, your data is used to provide support through various channels:

• Ticket Submissions: We use your email and other details to track and resolve issues you report through our ticket submission system.

• Customer Service: We rely on your contact information to follow up on customer service queries and improve the quality of support we offer.

 

4.3. Legal Compliance

We collect and use data in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. If required by law (e.g., court orders or subpoenas), we may disclose user information to legal authorities. We also ensure that your data is handled in ways that comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant data protection frameworks.

 

4.4. Analytics and Improvements

We use aggregated, anonymized data to analyze usage trends and user behavior. This helps us enhance the app’s features, understand which services are most popular, and make data-driven decisions to improve the user experience.

 

5. Data Retention

We retain your personal data for as long as it is necessary to provide services to you, or as required by applicable laws. Our data retention policy ensures that your data is only stored for as long as necessary to fulfill its purpose.

 

5.1. Location Data

Location data is retained for a maximum period of 30 days. After this period, the location data is automatically deleted from our systems. This ensures that outdated location information is not stored unnecessarily and helps reduce the amount of data we store.

 

5.2. Other Personal Data

Personal data, such as your name, email, and phone number, is retained until you request account deletion. We have processes in place to securely delete your data within two weeks of receiving a deletion request, ensuring that your information is no longer accessible after the account is terminated.

 

5.3. Data Deletion Request

Users have the right to request the deletion of their data at any time. Upon receiving such a request, we will permanently delete the user's personal information from our active databases. It is important to note that this process may take up to two weeks to ensure that all traces of the data are removed from our servers.

 

6. Data Encryption and Security

The security of your data is a top priority at Nearu. We have implemented multiple layers of protection to ensure that your data remains safe from unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction.

 

6.1. Secure Transactions

We use industry-standard SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to protect your data during transactions. SSL ensures that any sensitive information you provide (e.g., payment details) is securely transmitted over the internet without being intercepted by third parties.

 

6.2. Secure Storage

Personal information stored on our servers is protected using AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). AES encryption ensures that your data is stored in an encrypted format, making it unreadable to unauthorized users. This level of security applies to all personal data, from your profile information to transaction history.

 

6.3. Data Breach Notification

In the unlikely event of a data breach, we are committed to transparency. We will notify you via email as soon as we become aware of the breach, providing details on the nature of the breach, the information affected, and the steps we are taking to address the situation. We will also provide you with guidance on how to protect yourself if necessary.

 

7. Data Breach Response Plan

We take your data security very seriously and have a comprehensive data breach response plan in place. Should a data breach occur that compromises your personal information, we will notify all affected users as soon as possible. Notifications will be sent via email and will contain detailed information about the breach, including:
 

• The type of data compromised.

• The nature of the breach (e.g., unauthorized access, data theft).

• Immediate steps are taken to address the breach and prevent future incidents.
   

In the aftermath of a breach, we will conduct a thorough investigation to determine its cause, work closely with cybersecurity experts to resolve the issue and implement stronger security protocols to minimize future risks. Rest assured that your security is our top priority, and we will act swiftly to protect your data.

 

8. Special Categories of Data

Nearu is committed to collecting only the personal data required for the app to function. We do not collect any sensitive data categories, including but not limited to:
 

• Health-related data.

• Biometric information (e.g., facial recognition or fingerprints).

• Sensitive financial details, such as credit card numbers.
   

The data we collect is strictly limited to basic personal information, including your name, email address, phone number, and location data, which are necessary to provide services like location tracking and in-app purchases.

 

9. Data Minimization Practices

We strictly adhere to data minimization principles, meaning we only collect the data essential for Nearu’s operation. This includes the minimum amount of personal information necessary to provide core services, such as location tracking, account creation, and notifications. We do not collect or store any extraneous information. Our goal is to provide users with a smooth, efficient experience while minimizing the amount of personal data we handle, thereby reducing privacy risks.

 

10. User Notifications

Notifications play an important role in ensuring that you stay informed about key events related to your account. However, we aim to respect your preferences while ensuring you receive critical updates.

 

10.1. Types of Notifications

The following notifications may be sent to users:
 

• User Activity Updates: Information about other users in your circle, such as their location, status, or battery life.

• App Updates: Notifications about new features, security patches, or critical improvements.

• Policy Changes: Updates to this privacy policy or terms of service.

• Account-Related Notifications: Information related to security, login attempts, or changes to your account details.
   

Unfortunately, at this time, users do not have the ability to select which notifications they wish to receive. This is because all notifications are designed to enhance your experience or ensure the security of your account.

 

11. User Anonymity and Pseudonymity

Nearu requires users to register with their real names for all accounts. This policy ensures that we can verify users' identities for in-app purchases and other secure transactions. Real-name registration also fosters trust and accountability within the community by ensuring that interactions are authentic. We do not allow users to register with pseudonyms or false identities, as this could compromise the security and integrity of the platform.

 

12. User Rights and Data Control

We believe in empowering users with control over their personal information. As a Nearu user, you have a range of rights designed to protect your privacy, giving you control over the personal data that is collected, stored, and used.

 

12.1. Consent Withdrawal

You have the right to withdraw consent for data collection at any time. Should you wish to withdraw your consent, this can be done easily by contacting our support team at help@appnearu.com or by adjusting your account settings. However, it is important to note that by withdrawing consent, you may lose access to certain features or services that rely on the data you have chosen to withhold.

Example: If you revoke access to your location data, features such as location-based notifications or nearby user displays will no longer be available to you. The app will still function, but its location-based features will be disabled.

 

12.2. Accessing, Updating, and Deleting Data

Users have the right to access the personal data we hold on them. This means you can review what data has been collected and request updates or corrections if necessary. This process is as simple as visiting your account settings and updating your information, such as your contact details, language preferences, or account password.

In addition to updating your data, you also have the right to request the deletion of your personal information. Upon request, we will permanently delete your data from our active databases. Requests for deletion can be made by contacting our support team or through your account settings.
 

Data Deletion Process: Once a deletion request is made, it may take up to 14 days for all personal information to be fully removed from our systems. This delay ensures that all associated data, including any backups, are securely erased. After the deletion process is completed, users will no longer be able to access their accounts or retrieve any previously stored data.

 

12.3. Data Portability

Under certain circumstances, you may request to transfer your data to another service provider. This right, known as data portability, allows you to request a copy of your personal information in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format. This ensures that your data can be easily transferred between different service providers if you choose to switch services.

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Example: If you wish to transfer your user data to a new app with similar services, we can provide you with an export of your personal data (such as your account information, preferences, and usage history) in a standard file format like CSV or JSON, upon request.

 

12.4. Parental Controls and Children's Data

Although Nearu does not specifically target children, we recognize that younger users may occasionally access the app. To protect minors, we offer robust parental controls. Parents or guardians can use these settings to restrict access to certain features and manage the visibility of information shared by younger users.
 

We fully comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in the United States and similar laws globally, which require verifiable parental consent before collecting data from children under the age of 13. Parental controls allow parents to monitor app activity, restrict location sharing, and limit interaction with other users within the app.

 

13. Cross-Platform Synchronization

Nearu is designed to provide a seamless experience across multiple platforms. Whether you're using our app on iOS or Android, your personal data, preferences, and app settings are automatically synchronized between devices. This ensures that no matter which device you use, your experience remains consistent.

 

13.1. Data Synchronization

Synchronization covers a wide range of data points, ensuring you have a uniform experience across platforms:
 

• Preferences: Language settings, time zone configurations, and notification settings are all synchronized.

• Location Data: If you enable location sharing on one device, this preference is applied across all devices connected to your account.

• Subscription Details: If you are subscribed to a premium service, your subscription status will be synchronized across platforms, ensuring continuous access to premium features on any device.
   

Example: If you configure your notification preferences on your Android device, those settings will automatically apply when you switch to an iOS device using the same account. This synchronization minimizes disruptions and ensures that you don't have to reconfigure settings every time you switch devices.

 

13.2. Benefits of Cross-Platform Access

Nearu's cross-platform functionality allows users to:
 

• Transition smoothly between devices without losing data or having to re-enter settings.

• Receive notifications on multiple devices, ensuring you are always up to date with important app alerts, regardless of the device you're using.

• Access app features uniformly across different operating systems, benefiting from the same level of service and functionality on any platform.

 

14. International Data Transfers

Nearu may transfer and store your personal data on servers located outside your home country, including regions such as the European Union (EU) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These data transfers are conducted in full compliance with applicable regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for European users. This ensures that your data is protected with the same level of care it would receive if stored within the EU.

To safeguard your data during these international transfers, we implement various legal mechanisms, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs), which contractually bind us to meet GDPR requirements. By using Nearu, you consent to these international data transfers, understanding that they are necessary for delivering a seamless and efficient user experience, regardless of your location.

 

15. Automated Decision-Making and Profiling

At this time, we do not employ automated decision-making or profiling within the Nearu app. Automated decision-making refers to the use of algorithms to make decisions without human involvement, while profiling is the analysis or prediction of user behavior based on collected data. Nearu does not utilize such technologies. All interactions and content displayed to you within the app are based purely on your direct inputs and settings. We believe in providing a transparent user experience where decisions are determined by user actions, not by automated systems.

 

16. In-app purchases and Subscriptions

16.1. Subscription Services

Nearu offers subscription-based services that provide enhanced functionality and additional features. Users can subscribe through the app, with subscription plans available on a monthly or annual basis. All subscriptions are managed directly through the app’s settings, giving users the ability to easily start, pause, or cancel their subscriptions.

Subscriptions are designed to enhance the user's experience by unlocking features such as expanded storage, advanced notification settings, or the ability to access premium support.
 

Example: By subscribing to a premium plan, you may gain access to exclusive content, priority customer support, or the ability to customize app themes.

 

16.2. Managing Subscriptions

Users can manage their subscriptions directly from within the app. This includes options to:

• Upgrade or Downgrade: Adjust your subscription level based on your needs.

• Cancel at Any Time: You are free to cancel your subscription at any time. Once canceled, premium features will remain active until the current billing period ends, after which the subscription will not be renewed.
   

Immediate Cancellation: Users can cancel their subscription without notice, and the cancellation will take effect immediately, preventing any future billing. There are no penalties or fees associated with canceling a subscription.

 

16.3. Refund Policy

We strive to provide transparent refund policies. If you experience issues with your subscription, refunds are considered on a case-by-case basis. Refunds can typically be requested under the following circumstances:

• Technical Issues: If you were unable to access premium features due to app malfunctions or technical errors.

• Unauthorized Charges: If a subscription charge occurred without your consent.

All refunds are processed through the same payment method originally used to subscribe to the service.

 

17. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Although cookies are typically associated with web browsers, Nearu is a mobile app and thus relies on other tracking technologies to manage user sessions and preferences. These technologies ensure that the app remembers your preferences, helps enhance performance, and provides a better overall user experience.

 

17.1. Local Storage

Instead of using traditional cookies, Nearu relies on local storage within your mobile device. Local storage allows the app to save information such as:

• Login Details: To keep you signed in between sessions.

• App Preferences: To store your language, theme, and notification settings.

• Usage Data: To keep track of how you interact with the app, ensuring that frequently used features load faster.

 

17.2. Managing Tracking Technologies

Users can manage and control the use of local storage through their device settings. Depending on your mobile operating system (iOS or Android), you can choose to enable or disable local storage and other tracking technologies. However, please note that disabling these features may affect the app's performance and limit access to certain functionalities.

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Example: Disabling local storage may result in you having to log in every time you open the app, and your personalized settings may not be retained between sessions.

 

17.3. Tracking Technologies for Analytics

To understand user behavior and improve our services, Nearu uses certain tracking technologies such as pixels and beacons. These tools help us collect anonymized data about how the app is used, which areas require improvement, and how we can better serve our users. This data is processed in an aggregated manner and does not personally identify you.

 

18. Data Disclosure and Third-Party Sharing

At Nearu, we value your privacy and do not sell or share your personal information with third parties for advertising or marketing purposes. However, there are limited situations where we may share your data:

 

18.1. Service Providers

In certain cases, we may share your data with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating the app or providing services to you. These service providers are contractually bound to maintain the confidentiality and security of your data, and they can only use it for the purposes specified by Nearu.
 

Example: We may share certain data with cloud hosting providers or payment processors to ensure that our services function properly and securely.

 

18.2. Legal Obligations

We may disclose personal information if required to do so by law or in response to valid legal requests such as subpoenas or court orders. Additionally, we may disclose your data if we believe it is necessary to:
 

• Protect the rights, property, or safety of Nearu, its users, or the public.

• Prevent illegal activity or protect against fraudulent use of our services.
   

In such cases, we will make every effort to inform you before complying with legal requests unless prohibited by law.

 

 

19. Third-party integrations and APIs

We leverage several third-party services to enhance the Nearu user experience and deliver vital app functionalities. These third-party services are integral to various features of the app, such as location tracking, user authentication, and notifications. Below are details of each third-party integration and how they manage your personal data:
 

• Mapbox: Mapbox is integrated to provide real-time location tracking and map-based functionalities. This enables users to visualize their locations and search for nearby points of interest. To achieve this, Mapbox collects and processes location data as per its privacy policy. We recommend reviewing Mapbox’s privacy policy to fully understand how they handle your location data, as their practices may differ from ours.
   

• Firebase: Firebase handles essential operations like user registration, authentication, notifications, and secure data storage. It ensures that your account credentials, such as passwords and email addresses, are stored securely and manages push notifications to keep you informed about important app updates or user-related alerts. Firebase adheres to international privacy standards and offers detailed information about its data-handling practices in its privacy policy.
   

• Facebook, Apple, and Google Sign-In: We offer the convenience of signing into Nearu using third-party platforms like Facebook, Apple, and Google. By selecting this method, you may share certain publicly available data, such as your user ID or profile picture, with us. Each third-party service handles its data according to its respective privacy policies, which we recommend reviewing to understand its data-handling procedures. By using these sign-in options, you are subject to their terms as well as Nearu's.

 

20. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

This privacy policy is governed by the laws of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In the event of any disputes arising from the use of the Nearu Mobile App or this policy, we will first attempt to resolve the issue through good-faith negotiation. If a resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, the dispute will be submitted to the competent courts of Saudi Arabia.

 

20.1. International Users

If you are accessing the Nearu Mobile App from anywhere worldwide, please note that your personal data will be transferred to Amazon Servers in Europe. By using the App, you consent to the transfer, storage, and processing of your data in accordance with the laws of Saudi Arabia, which may differ from those in your country of residence.

 

21. Copyright and Intellectual Property

All texts, graphics, photographs, animations, videos, and other materials displayed on the Nearu Mobile App are protected by copyright and are the intellectual property of Nearu. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use of this content without explicit written permission from Nearu constitutes a violation of copyright laws and is subject to legal action.

 

21.1. Trademarks

The Nearu name, logo, and any related product or service names are trademarks of Nearu. Nothing in this Privacy Policy grants you any right to use Nearu’s trademarks without our prior written permission.

 

22. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We reserve the right to update or modify this Privacy Policy at any time. Changes to the Policy will be posted on this page, and you will be notified through the App or via email. Your continued use of the App following any changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated Policy.

 

22.1. Keeping Users Informed

We encourage users to periodically review this Policy to stay informed about how we protect the personal data we collect. If you do not agree to the modified terms, you may stop using the App and request the deletion of your data.

 

23. Links to External Websites

Nearu may contain links to external websites, particularly for accessing our privacy policy or other resources on our official site. It is important to note that these external sites are governed by their own privacy policies. We recommend users review the privacy practices of these third-party websites before providing any personal information. Once you navigate away from the Nearu app, their privacy policies will apply, and we are not responsible for how they handle your data.

 

24. User Education and Awareness

While we do not provide specific educational resources within the app, we strongly recommend that users take the following steps to protect their accounts:
 

• Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your passwords are complex, combining letters, numbers, and symbols.

• Keep Login Credentials Secure: Avoid sharing your login information or writing it down in an easily accessible location.

• Regularly Update Your Password: Change your password periodically to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

• Be Aware of Phishing: Be cautious of suspicious emails or links that ask for personal information or credentials.
   

By following these best practices, users can significantly enhance the security of their accounts and protect themselves from unauthorized access or misuse.

 

25. Compliance with Local Laws

We comply with all applicable data protection laws in the regions where Nearu operates. This includes the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for users in Europe and the local data protection laws in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. If you are located in Europe, you have several rights under GDPR, including:
 

• Right to Access: You can request a copy of the personal data we hold about you.

• Right to Rectification: You can request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete data.

• Right to Erasure: You can request that we delete your personal data under certain circumstances.

• Right to Restrict Processing: You can request limitations on the processing of your personal data.

• Right to Data Portability: You can request to receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format.

• Right to Object: You can object to the processing of your data in certain situations.
   

For users outside Europe, your rights are governed by the applicable data protection laws in your region. We strive to meet the highest standards of privacy and compliance wherever you are located.

 

26. Warranties and Liability Limitations

We warrant that Nearu will perform in accordance with its specifications and meet industry-standard security requirements. However, despite our best efforts, certain risks lie outside our control, particularly those associated with third-party breaches or user behaviors. We will not be liable for breaches or damages resulting from the following circumstances:

• User-Related Issues:

  • Users losing devices that have access to the Nearu app.

  • Users sharing passwords or using unsafe, weak passwords.

  • Written down or shared passwords leading to unauthorized access.

  • Users accessing the app over unsecured networks (e.g., public Wi-Fi).

  • Failure by users to update their device’s operating system or the app leads to security vulnerabilities.
     

• Device Compromise:

  • Devices infected by malware or viruses compromise the security of the app.

  • Unauthorized individuals gain physical access to devices with the app installed.
     

• Third-Party Services and APIs:

  • Security breaches or vulnerabilities in third-party services or APIs integrated with the app.

  • Users integrating unauthorized third-party applications or services with Nearu, may introduce vulnerabilities.
     

• Social Engineering and Phishing:

  • Users fall victim to phishing attacks or social engineering tactics.
     

• Failure to Follow Security Practices:

  • Users not following the recommended security guidelines we provide (e.g., using strong passwords, avoiding phishing attacks).

  • Users neglect to apply critical security patches or updates released by us or by their device’s operating system.
     

These limitations apply to all services related to the Nearu app, including but not limited to mobile apps (for Android and iOS), backend systems, the admin panel/dashboard, servers, and any third-party services and APIs we integrate with the app. By using Nearu, you agree to adhere to recommended security practices and acknowledge that some risks are outside our control.

 

27. Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or the App’s handling of your data, please contact us at:

Email: help@appnearu.com
Mailing Address: Nearu Privacy Team, [Insert Address], Saudi Arabia
Customer Support: Available through the in-app ticket submission system.