Privacy Policy

Who We Are

GlobalKin is a social networking app that connects people from around the world based on shared location, country of origin, and interests. We are operated by GlobalKin, based in Australia.

For any privacy questions, please contact us at globalkinapp@gmail.com

What Data We Collect

Data you give us directly:

• Full name
• Email address
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Country of birth and country of residence
• Profile photo
• Bio
• Interests you select

Data we collect automatically:

• Location (latitude and longitude) — only when you use the Explore feature and grant permission
• Device type and operating system
• App usage data (screens you visit, features you use)
• Firebase Analytics identifiers

Data created through using the app:

• Messages you send to other users
• Posts and content you create
• Friend connections you make
• Communities you join or create
• Friend requests you send or receive

Why We Collect It and Legal Basis

Location Data

Location is the most sensitive data we handle so we want to be transparent:

• We only request location when you open the Explore tab
• We request "while using the app" permission only — we never track you in the background
• Your approximate location is stored to show you nearby users
• Your precise GPS coordinates are converted to a general area — other users see you as "2.3km away", not your exact address
• You can revoke location permission at any time in your device Settings
• If you revoke permission the app continues to work, but the Explore map will not function

Who We Share Your Data With

We share data only with the following services that power the app:

Firebase / Google — our database, authentication, storage, and analytics provider. Your data is stored on Firebase servers. Google's privacy policy applies.

Mapbox — provides the map on the Explore screen. Your location is used to render the map. Mapbox privacy policy.

Apple / Google — for authentication if you sign in with Apple or Google. Their respective privacy policies apply.

Other GlobalKin users — your profile information (name, photo, bio, interests, country) is visible to other users. Your approximate distance is shown but never your exact address.

Law enforcement — only if required by Australian law or to protect the safety of our users.

Data Retention

Your Rights

Depending on where you live you have the right to:

• Access — request a copy of all data we hold about you
• Correction — update incorrect information (you can do this directly in the app)
• Deletion — delete your account and all associated data (available in app under Profile → Delete Account)
• Portability — receive your data in a machine-readable format
• Objection — object to how we process your data
• Withdraw consent — stop location access via your device Settings at any time

To exercise any right contact us at globalkinapp@gmail.com. We will respond within 30 days.

EU/UK users: You have additional rights under GDPR. You may also lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority.

California users: You have rights under CCPA including the right to know what data we collect and the right to deletion.

Australian users: We comply with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

Children

GlobalKin is rated 17+ and is not intended for anyone under 18. We do not knowingly collect data from anyone under 18. If you believe a minor has created an account please contact us at globalkinapp@gmail.com and we will delete the account immediately.

Security

We protect your data using:

• Firebase Security Rules controlling who can read and write each piece of data
• HTTPS encryption for all data in transit
• Firebase Authentication for secure login
• Profile photos stored in Firebase Storage with access controls

No system is 100% secure. If you discover a security vulnerability please report it to globalkinapp@gmail.com.

International Transfers

GlobalKin is a global app. Your data may be stored and processed in the United States where Firebase / Google servers are located. By using GlobalKin you consent to this transfer. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place in line with the Australian Privacy Act 1988 and applicable international data protection law.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy as the app evolves. We will notify you of significant changes via a notification in the app or by email. The "Last updated" date at the top of this page will always reflect the most recent version.

Contact Us

For any privacy questions, data requests, or concerns: