RideBuddy

This Privacy Policy describes how RideBuddy (“we”, “us”, or “our”) collects, uses, stores, and shares information when you use the RideBuddy mobile application available on Google Play (package name: com.ridebuddy.ride_buddy) and any related services (collectively, the “Service”).

By downloading, installing, or using the App, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the Service.

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Information You Provide

• Account information: Name, email address, phone number, profile photo, and password or authentication credentials when you register or create a profile.
• Profile & preferences: Gender, vehicle details (if offering rides), preferred routes, and other optional profile data.
• Communications: Messages you send through in-app chat, support requests, feedback, or ratings and reviews.
• Verification data: Identity or document information you voluntarily submit for verification purposes (where offered).

1.2 Information Collected Automatically

• Location data: Precise or approximate location when you use ride-matching, navigation, or tracking features (with your permission). Location may be collected in the foreground and, where permitted and necessary, in the background while a trip is active.
• Device information: Device model, operating system version, unique device identifiers, IP address, mobile network information, and app version.
• Usage data: Features used, screens viewed, ride history (origins, destinations, times, status), search queries, and crash logs.
• Cookies & similar technologies: We may use local storage and similar technologies for session management and analytics within the App.

1.3 Information from Third Parties

If you sign in with a third-party provider (e.g., Google), we may receive basic profile information from that provider subject to their privacy policy and your settings.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, operate, and improve the ride-matching and carpooling Service;
• Match riders and drivers based on routes, preferences, and availability;
• Enable real-time location sharing during active trips (when enabled by users);
• Process payments or fare-splitting features where available;
• Send transactional notifications (ride confirmations, reminders, safety alerts);
• Respond to support requests and communicate important updates;
• Detect, prevent, and address fraud, abuse, and security issues;
• Analyze usage to improve the App and develop new features;
• Comply with legal obligations and enforce our Terms of Service.

3. How We Share Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information in the following cases:

• With other users: Limited profile information (name, photo, ratings, vehicle details) and trip-related data necessary to complete a shared ride.
• Service providers: Trusted third parties who help us operate the Service (hosting, analytics, payment processing, push notifications, mapping/location services), bound by confidentiality and data-protection obligations.
• Legal requirements: When required by law, court order, or governmental request, or to protect the rights, safety, and property of RideBuddy, our users, or the public.
• Business transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, subject to continued protection of your information.
• With your consent: When you explicitly authorize additional sharing.

4. Location Data

5. Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary to provide the Service, fulfill the purposes described in this policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Ride history and account data are typically retained while your account is active and for a reasonable period afterward. You may request deletion of your account and associated data (see Section 8).

6. Security

We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information against unauthorized access, loss, or alteration. These include encryption in transit (HTTPS/TLS), access controls, and secure storage practices. However, no method of transmission or storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Children’s Privacy

The Service is not directed to children under 13 (or the minimum age required in your jurisdiction). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us and we will take steps to delete it.

8. Your Rights and Choices

Depending on your location, you may have the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you;
• Request correction of inaccurate data;
• Request deletion of your data or account;
• Object to or restrict certain processing;
• Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent;
• Data portability (where applicable).

You can update many profile details directly in the App. To exercise other rights or request account deletion, contact us using the details below. We will respond in accordance with applicable law.

You may also control location, notifications, and other permissions through your device settings.

9. International Transfers

Your information may be processed and stored in countries other than your own. Where we transfer data internationally, we take steps to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place consistent with applicable data-protection laws.

10. Third-Party Links and Services

The App may contain links to or integrate with third-party services (maps, payment providers, social login). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will post the revised version in the App or on this page and update the “Last Updated” date. Continued use of the Service after changes become effective constitutes acceptance of the updated policy. For material changes, we may provide additional notice (e.g., in-app notification or email).

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, or wish to exercise your rights, please contact us at:

For general support, you may also use the in-app help or contact channels listed on the Google Play Store listing for the App.

13. Google Play Data Safety

This Privacy Policy is intended to align with Google Play’s Data safety requirements. A summary of data collection and sharing practices is also declared in the App’s Data safety section on the Google Play Store. Please refer to that section for the official declarations associated with com.ridebuddy.ride_buddy.