Privacy Policy for Faith Connect

Last updated: September 1, 2025

This Privacy Policy explains how **Faith Connect** ("we", "our", "us") collects, uses, and safeguards your information when you use our Christian social community and fellowship application ("Service"). By using the Service, you agree to the terms described here.

1. Information We Collect

• **Authentication Data (OAuth):** If you choose to sign in using your Google account, we collect your name, email address, and profile picture associated with that Google account to create and manage your Faith Connect profile. We do not receive or store your Google password.
• Profile Information: email address, username, age/date of birth, profile photos, **denominational background, and spiritual interests.**
• Usage Data: device details, IP address, activity logs, **group participation**, and community interactions.
• Media Access: photos, only with your consent.

2. How We Use Your Data

• To facilitate Christian fellowship.
• To verify user accounts and ensure a respectful, spiritually safe environment.
• To personalize content, such as suggesting relevant Bible studies or local ministry events.
• To detect, prevent, and respond to violations of our Christ-like conduct standards.
• To comply with legal and regulatory obligations.

3. Sharing of Information

We do not sell your personal data. We may share limited data with:

• Trusted service providers (cloud hosting, content delivery networks).
• Law enforcement or child protection agencies when legally required.
• Moderation partners to ensure content complies with spiritual and safety standards.

4. Data Retention & Security

We keep your data only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined in this policy. Once your account is deleted:

• Your profile, personal messages, and associated media are permanently deleted.
• Data cannot be restored once deletion is confirmed.
• Residual backup copies may remain for a limited time for security, legal, and child safety compliance.

We use encryption, access controls, and regular monitoring to safeguard your information, recognizing our responsibility to protect our community members.

5. Children’s Privacy & Safety Standards

Faith Connect is intended for users **aged 16 and above**. While we facilitate community, users under 18 must have parental or guardian supervision and consent to use the Service. We take youth protection extremely seriously:

• We do not knowingly collect PII from children under 16 without parental consent.
• Zero-tolerance policy against CSAM (child sexual abuse material), grooming, or exploitation.
• We provide clear reporting tools and encourage parents/guardians to review and manage their teen’s use of the app.
• Immediate suspension of accounts and legal reporting for any violation of child safety standards.

6. Your Rights

• Access, correct, or request deletion of your personal data.
• Withdraw permissions (camera, microphone, notifications) from your device settings.
• Opt-out of general community or promotional emails at any time.

7. Changes to this Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Updates will be posted here with the revised date. Continued use of the Service indicates your acceptance of the updated policy.

8. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, privacy practices, or need to report a safety concern, you can reach us at:

📧 support@faithconnect.app