Privacy Policy

Roots ("the App") is a social networking platform for communities worldwide. We are committed to protecting your privacy and being transparent about how we collect, use, and protect your information. This policy explains what data we collect, how we use it, your rights, and how to contact us.

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Account Information

• Name, email address, username
• Profile information (bio, location, interests, profile photo)
• Demographic and professional information (optional)
• Community involvement, education, and volunteer work

1.2 Content You Create

• Posts, comments, messages, and media you share
• Event RSVPs, job applications, housing inquiries, saved items

1.3 Location Information (With Your Consent)

• Precise location (GPS) is collected only with your explicit permission for features like Qibla direction and local community discovery
• If you decline, you can still use the app with limited features
• City/state information may be used for profile and content

1.4 Device and Usage Information

• Device type, OS, app version
• IP address and network info
• Error logs and performance data

1.5 Camera and Photos (With Your Consent)

• Camera access for profile photos and content
• Photo library access for uploading images
• Only media you choose to share is uploaded

2. How We Use Your Information

• To provide and improve app features (social networking, messaging, community discovery, Qibla, jobs, housing, events)
• To personalize your experience and show relevant content
• To facilitate community connections and participation
• To maintain safety, security, and enforce community guidelines
• To respond to your requests and provide support

3. Information Sharing

• We do NOT sell your personal information
• We do NOT share your data with advertisers or analytics providers
• Your profile and posts may be visible to other Roots users based on your privacy settings
• We use Supabase (backend) and Cloudflare R2 (file storage) as service providers
• We may share information if required by law or to protect rights and safety
• We may share information with your explicit consent

4. Your Privacy Controls

• Control who can see your profile and posts
• Manage community and location visibility settings
• Control who can message you
• Manage notification and communication preferences
• Enable or disable location services at any time

5. Data Security

• Data is encrypted in transit and at rest
• Secure authentication and access controls
• Regular security updates and audits
• Data is stored in the United States; by using Roots, you consent to this storage and processing

6. Data Retention

• We retain your data while your account is active
• If you delete your account, your data is deleted within 30 days (unless required by law)
• Data in backups is deleted according to our retention schedule

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information
• Correct inaccurate information
• Delete your account and data
• Request export of your data
• Withdraw consent for optional features (e.g., location)

To exercise these rights, email privacy@joinroots.app

8. Children's Privacy

Roots is not intended for users under 16 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 16. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 16, please contact us immediately.

9. International Users

Roots is available worldwide. Your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States. By using Roots, you consent to this transfer and processing.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or for legal reasons. We will notify you of material changes through the app or by email. Your continued use of Roots constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Us

For privacy-related questions or requests:

Email: privacy@joinroots.app
Subject: "Privacy Policy Inquiry"

We are committed to addressing your privacy concerns promptly and transparently.

This policy is effective as of the last updated date above and applies to all users of the Roots platform.