This policy explains what SeaSpotters (seaspotters.com) collects and how we use it. By using the Service you agree to this policy.
Information we collect
Account details you provide (such as your email and display name), the sightings, comments and media you submit, and basic technical data your browser sends (IP address, browser type, pages visited, timestamps).
Location data
Sightings include a location. To protect vulnerable species and reporters, the public location of sensitive sightings may be coarsened or delayed; precise coordinates are never published. Safety hazards are shown at full precision and without delay.
Photos you upload
When you attach a photo to a sighting we use your camera or photo library only for the photo you pick. Before storing it we strip its embedded metadata — including any GPS coordinates — so a photo can never leak a location we have deliberately coarsened.
Push notifications
If you opt in to notifications, we store a device token so we can send you safety-hazard and activity alerts. You can turn notifications off at any time in your device settings.
Signing in with Google, GitHub or Apple
If you sign in with a third-party provider, we receive your email address and basic profile information to create and identify your account. We never receive your password for those services.
Cookies
We use cookies to keep you signed in and to remember your preferences. You can refuse cookies in your browser, but some features may stop working.
Deleting your account and your data
You can delete your account at any time from Settings. When you do, we remove your account and anonymise the sightings and comments you contributed — they stay part of the community record but are no longer linked to you or your name. Email hello@seaspotters.com if you need help.
Security
We take reasonable measures to protect your information, but no method of transmission or storage is completely secure.
Third-party services
The Service uses map tiles and reference data from third parties (see the Copyright page). When you follow a link off-site, this policy no longer applies.
Changes
We may update this policy and will post any changes on this page.