Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

We collect the following types of personal data to provide and improve our services:

• Account Information: When you create an account or log in, we collect your email address, username, and any profile details you provide (e.g., display name).
• Usage Data: We collect information about how you interact with our website, such as pages visited (e.g., places, stories, maps), search queries, clicks, and time spent on pages. This is collected via a number of different Analytics services.
• Location Data: If you enable location services (e.g., for the “Near Me” feature or map functionality), we may collect your approximate location based on IP address or precise location with your consent. You can disable this in your browser or device settings.
• Device Information: We collect data about your device, including browser type, operating system, screen resolution, and IP address, to optimize our website and detect fraud.
• Cookies and Similar Technologies: We use essential cookies for authentication and analytics cookies to track usage.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal data for the following purposes:

• Service Delivery: To provide access to our website, authenticate users, display personalized content (e.g., saved places), and enable features like maps and search.
• Analytics and Improvement: To analyze usage patterns, optimize website performance, and develop new features using anonymized and aggregated data.
• Personalization: To tailor content, such as recommending places or stories based on your searches or location (if enabled).
• Security: To detect and prevent fraud, unauthorized access, or abuse of our services.
• Legal Compliance: To comply with legal obligations, such as responding to government requests or court orders.

3. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your personal data. We may share your data only in the following cases:

• Service Providers: With trusted third-party providers who assist us in operating our website. These providers are contractually obligated to protect your data.
• Legal Requirements: If required by law, regulation, or legal process (e.g., court orders, government investigations) in India or other jurisdictions.
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your data may be transferred to the new entity, with notice to you.
• With Your Consent: For any other purpose, we will seek your explicit consent.

Some providers may store or process data outside India. We ensure such transfers comply with DPDP Act requirements, including data protection agreements.

4. Cookies and Similar Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience:

• Essential Cookies: Required for authentication to enable login and personalized features.
• Analytics Cookies: Used to track page views, clicks, and interactions to improve our website. You can opt out via our cookie consent banner.
• Control: Our cookie consent banner allows you to accept or decline non-essential cookies. You can also manage cookies via your browser settings.

For details, see our cookie consent banner or contact us.

5. Your Rights Under the DPDP Act

As a user in India, you have the following rights under the DPDP Act:

• Right to Access: Request a copy of your personal data we hold.
• Right to Correction: Update or correct inaccurate data (e.g., via your account settings).
• Right to Erasure: Request deletion of your data, subject to legal obligations.
• Right to Restrict Processing: Limit how we use your data in certain cases.
• Right to Nominate: Designate a nominee to manage your data in case of incapacity or death.
• Right to Grievance Redressal: Contact our Data Protection Officer for complaints (see below).

To exercise these rights, email us at anvaya.map@gmail.com. We will respond within the timelines prescribed by the DPDP Act (typically 30 days).

6. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures, including encryption, access controls, and secure servers, to protect your data from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. However, no online service is completely secure, and we encourage you to use strong passwords and secure devices.

7. Children’s Privacy

Our services are not intended for users under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children without parental consent. If you believe we have collected data from a child, please contact us at anvaya.map@gmail.com, and we will take appropriate action.

8. Data Retention

We retain your personal data only as long as necessary to provide our services, comply with legal obligations, or resolve disputes. For example:

• Account data is retained until you delete your account.
• Analytics data is anonymized and retained for up to 14 months.

Upon deletion, we securely erase your data, subject to legal retention requirements.

9. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you via email or a website notice for significant changes. Please review this page periodically.

10. Contact Us

For questions, complaints, or to exercise your rights, contact our Data Protection Officer:

• Email: anvaya.map@gmail.com
• Address: Anvaya Maps, Gurugram, 122018, India

If you are not satisfied with our response, you may approach the Data Protection Board of India once established under the DPDP Act.