Privacy policy.

1. Introduction

crcle (“we,” “us,” or “our”) operates the crcle mobile and web applications (the “App”).

crcle is a private group photo-sharing application designed to allow users to create temporary shared spaces called “crcles” for uploading and downloading photos.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your information when you use the App. By using the App, you agree to this Privacy Policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Account Information

When you create an account using Firebase Authentication, we collect:

• Email address and/or phone number
• A unique user identifier (UID)
• Authentication credentials managed securely by Firebase

This information is used solely to authenticate users and associate them with crcles.

2.2 User Content (Photos)

The App allows users to upload:

• Photos
• Associated metadata such as upload timestamps and crcle identifiers

Uploaded photos are visible only to members of the crcle in which they are shared. We do not access, analyze, or sell the contents of your photos.

2.3 Device and Usage Information

We use Firebase Analytics and related services, which may collect:

• Device type and model
• Operating system version
• App version
• General location at the country level
• Anonymous usage statistics, such as session duration and feature usage
• Crash and performance diagnostics

This information is used to improve app performance, reliability, and user experience. Firebase Analytics does not provide us with access to your photo content.

2.4 App Permissions

The App may request access to:

• Camera, to capture photos
• Device storage or photo library, to save downloaded photos
• Internet connectivity, to upload and retrieve media

You may manage permissions in your device settings. Some features may not function properly if required permissions are disabled.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Authenticate users
• Enable creation and participation in crcles
• Store and deliver shared photos
• Enforce private crcle access controls
• Improve app performance and reliability
• Monitor usage trends and detect abuse
• Comply with legal obligations

We do not sell or rent personal information.

4. Third-Party Services

The App uses Google Firebase services, including:

• Firebase Authentication
• Firebase Cloud Storage
• Firebase Firestore or database services
• Firebase Analytics
• Firebase Crashlytics, if enabled

These services may process data in accordance with Google's Privacy Policy. We rely on these providers to securely store and process data necessary to operate the App.

5. Data Retention

5.1 Crcle Lifecycle and Media Deletion

crcles are temporary by design. Each crcle operates in two phases:

• Active phase, when uploading and downloading are allowed
• Download phase, when downloading only is allowed

After the download phase ends, the crcle, all associated photos, and all related metadata are automatically deleted from our systems. We do not provide long-term media storage.

5.2 Account Retention

Your account information is retained until you delete your account. Users can delete their account directly within the App. Upon deletion:

• Authentication credentials are removed
• Associated user identifiers are deleted where technically feasible

Some limited system logs may be retained temporarily for security or legal compliance.

6. Data Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information. We may share information only:

• With cloud service providers necessary to operate the App
• If required by law or legal process
• To protect the rights, safety, and security of users

7. Security

We implement reasonable technical and organizational safeguards, including:

• Secure authentication via Firebase
• Server-side membership validation
• Encrypted communication (HTTPS)
• Restricting photo access to authorized crcle members only

However, no system can guarantee absolute security.

8. International Data Transfers

Because we use Google Firebase and related cloud services, your information may be processed or stored in countries outside your country of residence. We rely on appropriate safeguards provided by our service providers.

9. Children's Privacy

crcle is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that such information has been collected, we will delete it.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will update the “Last updated” date at the top of this page. Continued use of the App after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, contact info@crcleapp.com or visit crcleapp.com.