Privacy Policy
Last updated: 24 June 2026
1. Introduction
Kanz ("we", "our", "us") is a location-based messaging application. This policy explains what data we collect, why we collect it, and how it is handled. By using Kanz you agree to the practices described here.
2. Data We Collect
| Category | What | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Email address, chosen username | Authentication and identity |
| Location | GPS coordinates at time of message creation; ongoing position while the app is running | Placing messages and discovering nearby messages |
| Content | Text content of messages you create | Core product feature |
| Usage | App events (map view, message created, notification tapped) | Anonymous analytics via Firebase Analytics |
| Crash data | Stack traces and device model on crash | Stability via Firebase Crashlytics |
| Device / network | IP address collected incidentally by Firebase infrastructure on all network requests | Standard networking |
We do not collect payment information, contacts, photos, or any biometric data.
3. How We Use Your Data
To let you place messages at GPS coordinates and discover messages placed by others.
To enforce visibility rules (public vs. private messages, recipient targeting).
To detect and moderate content that violates our Community Guidelines.
To send local notifications when you enter a message discovery radius — processed entirely on-device. Your location is never sent to our servers in real-time.
To measure aggregate usage and improve the product.
4. Data Storage and Third Parties
Your data is stored in Google Firebase (Firestore, Firebase Auth, Firebase Analytics, Firebase Crashlytics). Firebase services are governed by Google's Privacy Policy. Map rendering uses the Google Maps SDK, also subject to Google's terms.
We do not sell, rent, or share your personal data with any other third parties.
5. Location Data
Foreground location is used whenever you open the map to find nearby messages.
Background location (Android) is used, with your permission, to trigger local notifications when you physically walk into a message radius. This processing happens on your device — raw location is not transmitted to our servers.
You can revoke location permission at any time via your device settings. The app will continue to work but you will not discover nearby messages or receive notifications.
6. Data Retention
Messages are retained until you delete them.
Reports are retained for moderation audit purposes and are not user-accessible.
Analytics events are retained per Firebase's default retention window (14 months).
Your account is retained until you delete it. You can delete your account directly from the app via Settings → Delete Account. This permanently deletes your profile and all content you have created.
7. Children
Kanz is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If you believe a child has created an account, contact us and we will delete it promptly.
8. Your Rights
Depending on your location you may have rights to access, correct, or delete your personal data. Contact us at support@getkanz.app to exercise these rights.
9. Changes
We will update this policy as the product evolves. Significant changes will be communicated in-app. Continued use after notice constitutes acceptance.