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Effective Date: August 10, 2025
At UpCatch ("we," "us," or "our"), we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your data when you use our mobile application (the "App" or "Service"). The Service facilitates instant, real-world connections in safe public locations, emphasizing authenticity and safety.
We operate in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (EU) 2016/679 and other applicable data protection laws. By using the Service, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the Service.
UpCatch is the data controller for your personal data processed through the Service. Our contact details are provided at the end of this Policy.
We collect the following types of information to provide and improve the Service:
Account Information: When you register, we collect your email address, phone number (for verification and emergency features), and emergency contact details (e.g., a trusted person's contact information). Emergency contacts are stored upfront to enable you to send distress signals if you feel unsafe during a meeting.
Profile Details: Initials (derived from your name), but full names are not displayed or shared until users mutually connect. Profile pictures are not visible until a connection is established.
Communication Data: Messages in chats, which are only accessible after users connect.
Location Data: We use your device's location services (with your permission) for nearby search functionality to suggest public meeting venues. User locations are never shared directly between users at any time or under any circumstances. Only the selected venue or meeting place location is shared upon mutual agreement.
Device and Usage Data: Device type, IP address, operating system, app version, and usage statistics (e.g., time spent in the app, features used) to improve the Service.
Analytics Data: Anonymous data on app performance and user interactions via tools like Google Analytics (subject to their privacy policies).
We may receive data from third-party services (e.g., authentication providers) if you link your account, but only with your consent.
We adhere to data minimization principles under GDPR, collecting only what is necessary for the Service's functionality.
We process your personal data based on lawful grounds under GDPR, such as your consent, performance of a contract (providing the Service), or legitimate interests (e.g., safety and app improvement).
To Provide the Service: Use location data for nearby searches and venue suggestions; store emergency contacts for safety features (e.g., sending alerts if you feel in danger).
Safety and Security: Anonymize interactions by showing only initials and hiding profile pictures/chats until connected; enable emergency requests.
Improve the App: Analyze usage data to enhance features and user experience.
Communications: Send service-related notifications (e.g., connection requests) or, with consent, marketing updates.
Legal Compliance: Respond to legal requests or protect rights.
We do not use your data for automated decision-making that significantly affects you without human oversight.
We do not sell your personal data. Sharing occurs only as follows:
With Users: Only upon mutual connection: full names, profile pictures, and chat access. Venue locations are shared for meetings, but never individual user locations.
Service Providers: With trusted third parties (e.g., cloud hosting, analytics) under strict data processing agreements ensuring GDPR compliance.
Emergency Situations: If you activate an emergency request, we may share relevant details (e.g., your location, emergency contact) with authorities or your designated contact to ensure safety.
Legal Requirements: If required by law, such as subpoenas or to prevent harm.
Business Transfers: In case of merger or acquisition, your data may be transferred, with notice provided.
All sharing complies with GDPR, including adequacy decisions or standard contractual clauses for international transfers.
We implement robust security measures, including encryption (e.g., for location and communication data), access controls, and regular audits, to protect your data from unauthorized access, loss, or breach. However, no system is infallible; you use the Service at your own risk.
In the event of a data breach, we will notify you and relevant authorities as required by GDPR (within 72 hours where feasible).
We retain your data only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined (e.g., account data while active; location data temporarily for searches). Upon account deletion or request, we erase or anonymize data within 30 days, except where legally required to retain (e.g., for audits).
As an EU/UK user, you have rights including:
Access: Request a copy of your data.
Rectification: Correct inaccurate data.
Erasure ("Right to be Forgotten"): Delete your data in certain cases.
Restriction: Limit processing.
Portability: Receive your data in a structured format.
Objection: Object to processing based on legitimate interests or for marketing.
Withdraw Consent: At any time, without affecting prior processing.
Complain: To a supervisory authority (e.g., ICO in the UK).
To exercise rights, contact us at support@UpCatch.co.uk. We respond within one month, free of charge (extensions possible for complex requests).
The Service is not intended for users under 18. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If we discover such data, we delete it immediately.
If data is transferred outside the EEA/UK, we ensure adequate protections via GDPR mechanisms (e.g., EU Standard Contractual Clauses).
The App may link to third-party sites/services (e.g., mapping tools). We are not responsible for their privacy practices; review their policies.
We may update this Policy, with changes effective upon posting. Significant changes will be notified via the App or email. Continued use constitutes acceptance.
For questions, rights requests, or concerns:
Email: support@UpCatch.co.uk
Website: https://UpCatch.co.uk
We are committed to resolving issues promptly. For GDPR complaints, contact your local data protection authority.
By using UpCatch, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy.
