Privacy Policy for Bato App

Last Updated: January 2025

Introduction

This Privacy Policy describes how Bato ("we," "our," or "us") collects, uses, and protects your information when you use our mobile application (the "App"). By using our App, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.

Information We Collect

Personal Information

When you create an account, post a business listing, or contact us, we may collect:

• Name, email address, and phone number
• Business details (business name, address, services)
• Profile information you choose to share

Camera Access

• Purpose: To allow you to take or upload photos for your business listings, profile pictures, and other app content.
• Storage: Photos are stored locally on your device and may be uploaded to our servers to display in your listings.

Location Information

• Precise Location: Used to show nearby businesses and services.
• Approximate Location: Used for general area-based content.
• Background Location: May be used to deliver location-based notifications or recommendations.

Storage Access

• Purpose: To save and retrieve photos, documents, and files related to your app usage.
• Usage: Supports managing uploaded content and offline functionality.

Automatically Collected Information

When you use the App, we may automatically collect:

• Device information (model, operating system, unique device identifiers)
• Log data (IP address, app activity, crash reports)
• Usage analytics (via Firebase Analytics or similar tools)

How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information to:

• Provide and improve our services
• Show relevant local business listings and advertisements
• Enable photo uploads and listings
• Personalize your app experience
• Provide customer support
• Monitor app performance, analytics, and security

Advertising and Analytics

We may use third-party services such as Google AdMob and Firebase Analytics. These partners may collect or receive information about your device and usage to:

• Show personalized or contextual ads
• Provide insights into app usage and performance

You can opt out of personalized ads by adjusting your device settings:

• Android: Settings > Google > Ads > Opt out of Ads Personalization

Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data. We may share information only:

• With service providers who support app operations (under confidentiality agreements)
• When required by law or legal process
• To protect our rights, users, or security

Data Retention

We retain your personal data only as long as necessary to provide services, comply with legal obligations, or resolve disputes. When no longer needed, data is securely deleted.

Data Security

We use reasonable security measures (encryption, secure storage, limited access) to protect your data against unauthorized access, disclosure, or alteration.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access and update your personal information
• Request deletion of your account and data
• Opt out of location tracking (may affect app functionality)
• Opt out of personalized advertising
• Contact us with privacy concerns

If you are located in the European Economic Area (EEA) or California, you may have additional rights under GDPR/CCPA, including the right to opt out of targeted advertising and data sharing with third parties.

Third-Party Links

The App may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties.

Children's Privacy

Our App is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child has provided us data, please contact us for removal.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Updates will be posted in the App, with the "Last Updated" date.

Contact Information

This privacy policy is effective as of January 2025 and applies to all users of the Bato app.