Buzzd Privacy Policy
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Effective Date: October 24, 2025
Entity: Bluestone Collective LLC
Website: https://joinbuzzd.app
Contact: support@joinbuzzd.app
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1. Introduction
Bluestone Collective LLC (“we,” “our,” or “us”) operates the Buzzd mobile application (“App”) and the website https://joinbuzzd.app.
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you use Buzzd. By downloading or using Buzzd, you agree to the terms in this Policy.
We take your privacy seriously. We do not sell personal data and we only collect information necessary to operate and improve the service.
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2. Information We Collect
a. Information You Provide
- Account information: Name, email address (required JMU email for verification), username, and password.
- Profile information: Optional profile photo, bio, and preferences.
- Payment details: Processed securely by Stripe. We do not store full credit or debit card numbers.
- Feedback or support messages: When you contact us through the app or email.
b. Automatically Collected Information
- Device data: Model, operating system, and unique device identifiers.
- Usage data: Features used, session duration, crash reports, and interaction logs via Firebase Analytics and Crashlytics.
- Location data: Only when you grant permission. Used for venue discovery and map features.
- Camera and photo library: Only used for QR scanning, event check-ins, or uploading your profile photo.
- Push notifications: Device tokens stored under your account for event updates.
c. Cookies and Tracking
We use Firebase Analytics cookies and similar local storage to measure app performance and usage trends. These are anonymous and do not track you across other apps.
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3. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Create and manage your account.
- Verify your email domain (e.g., @dukes.jmu.edu).
- Display events, venues, and user check-ins.
- Send event confirmations, verification emails, or app notifications.
- Process secure payments through Stripe.
- Improve app performance and prevent fraud.
- Comply with legal obligations and Apple App Store requirements.
We do not use your information for third-party advertising or sell your data to anyone.
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4. How We Share Information
We share limited data only with trusted service providers who help operate Buzzd:
| Service | Purpose | Data Shared |
|---|---|---|
| Firebase (Google LLC) | Authentication, database, analytics, notifications | Email, UID, analytics events |
| Stripe, Inc. | Payment processing | Name, email, payment token |
| SendGrid (Twilio, Inc.) | Transactional email (verification, receipts) | Email address, name |
| Mapbox & Google Places APIs | Map rendering and venue data | Approximate location (when granted) |
All third parties comply with their respective privacy and data protection standards.
We may also disclose information if required by law, subpoena, or to protect our legal rights and users’ safety.
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5. Data Storage and Security
All user data is stored securely on Google Firebase Cloud Firestore and Google Cloud Storage servers located in the United States.
We apply the following safeguards:
- Encrypted data transmission (HTTPS/TLS 1.2+).
- Access controls based on Firebase Authentication.
- Encrypted passwords and secure tokens.
- Regular audits and code reviews.
No system is 100% secure, but we use industry-standard methods to protect your data.
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6. Retention and Deletion
We retain user data for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide the service.
You may delete your account at any time in-app or by contacting privacy@joinbuzzd.app. This permanently removes personal information and stored files from our servers (except data required for legal or payment recordkeeping).
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7. Children’s Privacy
Buzzd is intended for users aged 17 and older. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13. If we become aware that a child has provided personal information, we will delete it immediately.
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8. Your Privacy Rights
Under U.S. law, you may:
- Request access to the personal information we hold about you.
- Request correction or deletion of your data.
- Opt out of receiving marketing or promotional emails (we currently send none).
Contact us at privacy@joinbuzzd.app for any privacy requests.
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9. Data Transfers
Buzzd operates entirely within the United States. If you access it from another country, your data will be transferred and processed in the U.S.
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10. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy occasionally. The “Effective Date” above will reflect the latest revision. Any major changes will be announced in-app or by email before taking effect.
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11. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, contact us at:
Bluestone Collective LLC
Email: support@joinbuzzd.app
Website: https://joinbuzzd.app/privacy
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