Privacy Policy

VanGolf (“we”, “us”) is a golf road-trip planning app for travellers. This Privacy Policy explains what personal information we collect, why we collect it, how we use it, and the choices you have. By using VanGolf you agree to this policy.

1. Who we are

VanGolf is operated from Australia. For privacy questions or requests, contact: joshclifford1@gmail.com. If you prefer a different contact address later, we will update this page.

2. Information we collect

Depending on how you use VanGolf, we may collect:

• Account information — email address, display name / username, and authentication identifiers when you sign in (including via Google Sign-In where you choose that option).
• Location — precise or approximate location when you allow permission, used for map features, trip planning, and detecting arrival/departure at stops during an active trip.
• Trip and passport content — saved trips, routes, favourites, passport stamps, notes, scorecards, and photos you choose to attach.
• Community content — posts, replies, usernames, and reports you submit in Community.
• Place contributions — photos, edits, verifications, or other submissions you send about courses and stays.
• Device and app information — basic technical data needed to run and secure the app (for example app version, and diagnostics if you send feedback).
• Waitlist / website forms — name, email, and store preference if you join the waitlist on our website.

We do not require microphone access. VanGolf may play short sounds; it does not record audio.

3. How we use information

• Provide and improve VanGolf features (maps, trip planner, passport, Community, saved data).
• Create and secure your account; restore your data when you sign in on a new device.
• Show your public Community profile information (such as username) to other users when you post.
• Moderate Community content and respond to reports of abuse.
• Review place contributions you submit.
• Communicate with you about the app, testing, or waitlist updates when you have asked us to.
• Comply with law and protect the safety and integrity of VanGolf.

4. Where information is stored / processors

We use trusted service providers to operate VanGolf. In particular, account, cloud backup, Community, and related app data are processed using Google Firebase (including Authentication, Cloud Firestore, and Cloud Storage) and may be stored on Google infrastructure. Maps and related location services may use Google Maps / Places / Routes APIs. Our marketing waitlist form may be processed by a form provider (for example Formspree). These providers process data on our behalf under their own terms and privacy policies.

5. Sharing

We do not sell your personal information.

We may share information:

• With service providers who help us run VanGolf (as above).
• With other users, when you post publicly in Community or choose to share trip content.
• If required by law, or to protect rights, safety, and security.
• If the app business is transferred, subject to appropriate protections.

6. Data retention

We keep account and app data while your account is active and as needed to provide VanGolf. You may delete content you control in-app where that option exists. If you want account deletion or a broader erasure request, email us and we will action it within a reasonable time, subject to legal retention needs (for example fraud or abuse records).

7. Your choices and rights

• You can decline location or photo permissions in your device settings (some features will not work).
• You can sign out, and request access, correction, or deletion of personal information by emailing us.
• If you are in Australia, you may also contact the OAIC if you have an unresolved privacy complaint.

8. Children

VanGolf is aimed at adults planning travel and golf. It is not directed at children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organisational measures to protect information (including provider security controls). No method of transmission or storage is 100% secure.

10. Changes

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The “Last updated” date at the top will change when we do. Continued use of VanGolf after an update means you accept the revised policy.

11. Contact

Privacy requests: joshclifford1@gmail.com