Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Information You Provide

We collect information that you voluntarily provide when using Kounga TripMate:

• Account Information: Name, email address, profile photo, and password
• Trip Information: Trip details, destinations, dates, itineraries, and notes
• Expense Data: Transaction details, amounts, and expense categories
• Photos and Media: Images and files you upload to trips
• Communications: Messages and interactions with other users within the app

1.2 Automatically Collected Information

When you use our app, we automatically collect:

• Device Information: Device type, operating system, unique device identifiers
• Usage Data: Features used, time spent in app, crash reports
• Location Data: Approximate location (with your permission) for trip planning features
• Log Data: IP address, access times, and app performance data

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for the following purposes:

• Provide Services: Enable core app functionality including trip planning, collaboration, and expense tracking
• Synchronization: Sync your data across devices and with group members
• Improvements: Analyze usage patterns to improve features and user experience
• Communications: Send important updates, security alerts, and support messages
• Security: Protect against unauthorized access, fraud, and abuse
• Legal Compliance: Comply with applicable laws and regulations

3. Data Storage and Security

3.1 Offline-First Architecture

Kounga TripMate uses an offline-first architecture. Your data is stored locally on your device and synced to our secure cloud servers when an internet connection is available.

3.2 Security Measures

We implement industry-standard security measures including:

• End-to-end encryption for sensitive data
• Encrypted data transmission (TLS/SSL)
• Secure password hashing with bcrypt
• Regular security audits and updates
• Access controls and authentication
• Encrypted local storage on your device

3.3 Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. You can request deletion of your account and data at any time through the app settings.

4. Information Sharing

We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information only in these limited circumstances:

4.1 With Other Users

When you create or join a trip, your profile information and trip-related data are shared with other members of that trip group.

4.2 Service Providers

We work with trusted third-party service providers who help us deliver our services:

• Cloud hosting (Firebase/Google Cloud Platform)
• Authentication services (Firebase Auth, Google Sign-In, Apple Sign-In)
• Analytics providers (for app improvement)
• Customer support tools

4.3 Legal Requirements

We may disclose information if required by law, court order, or to protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of our users.

5. Your Privacy Rights

You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: Request a copy of your personal data
• Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your account and data
• Export: Download your data in a portable format
• Opt-out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications
• Restriction: Request limitation of data processing

To exercise these rights, contact us at info@koungasolutions.co.nz or use the in-app settings.

6. Children's Privacy

Kounga TripMate is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately.

7. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and maintained on servers located outside your country. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in compliance with this Privacy Policy and applicable laws.

8. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to improve your experience. You can control cookie preferences through your device settings. Note that disabling cookies may limit some functionality.

9. Third-Party Links

Our app may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify you of significant changes via email or in-app notification. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us:

12. Compliance

This Privacy Policy complies with applicable privacy laws including the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020, GDPR (where applicable), and other relevant regulations.