Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Swellwire (“we,” “us,” or “our”) respects your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you use our website, mobile applications, and related services (collectively, the “Service”).

By using the Service, you consent to the practices described in this policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of the Service.

2. Information We Collect

Information you provide directly

• Account information: When you create an account, we collect your name and email address through your chosen authentication provider (Google or Apple Sign-In).
• Payment information: Paid subscriptions are billed and processed by the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. We do not collect or store any payment card details. We receive only the subscription status (active, expired, etc.) and the product identifier from those stores.
• Communications: If you contact us for support, we collect the information you provide in your message.

Information collected automatically

• Anonymous usage data: We assign an anonymous identifier (stored in a cookie and local storage) to track page views and general usage patterns. This identifier is not linked to your personal identity unless you are signed in.
• Device and browser information: We collect your IP address, browser type, operating system, and device type for analytics and to improve the Service.
• Location data: With your permission, we may use your device’s location to provide localized forecasts and nearby surf spot information. You can disable location access in your browser or device settings.
• Favorites and preferences: If you save favorite spots or adjust display preferences, this data is stored to personalize your experience.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, operate, and maintain the Service
• Process subscriptions and payments
• Deliver personalized forecasts and localized content
• Analyze usage patterns to improve the Service
• Detect, prevent, and address technical issues or abuse
• Communicate with you about your account or the Service

4. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Swellwire uses the following cookies and similar technologies:

• Essential cookies: Required for authentication and core functionality (e.g., session cookies, anonymous tracking identifier).
• Analytics cookies: Used to understand how visitors interact with the Service and to improve performance.

You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may affect the functionality of the Service.

5. Third-Party Services

We share information with the following third-party services to operate the Service:

• Authentication: Google and Apple (for sign-in)
• Payments: Apple App Store and Google Play Store (for subscription billing on their respective platforms)
• Hosting and infrastructure: Vercel, Neon (PostgreSQL database), and Redis-based caching services
• Data sources: NOAA and other government weather services (we send requests on your behalf but do not share your personal data with these providers)

Each third-party service operates under its own privacy policy. We encourage you to review their policies.

6. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information. We may disclose your information only in the following circumstances:

• Service providers: To trusted third parties who assist in operating the Service, subject to confidentiality obligations.
• Legal requirements: When required by law, subpoena, or legal process, or to protect the rights, safety, or property of Swellwire or others.
• Business transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred as part of that transaction.

7. Data Retention

We retain your account information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide the Service. Anonymous usage data is retained in aggregate form for analytics purposes. If you delete your account, we will remove your personal information within a reasonable timeframe, except where retention is required by law.

8. Data Security

We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

9. Your Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your personal information
• Object to or restrict certain processing of your data
• Request a portable copy of your data
• Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information (California residents)

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us at support@swellwire.com. We will respond to your request within the timeframe required by applicable law.

10. California Privacy Rights (CCPA)

If you are a California resident, you have additional rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), including the right to know what personal information is collected, the right to delete personal information, and the right to opt out of the sale of personal information. Swellwire does not sell personal information as defined by the CCPA.

11. Children's Privacy

The Service is not directed to children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that we have collected personal information from a child under 13, we will take steps to delete that information promptly.

12. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your country of residence, including the United States. These countries may have data protection laws that differ from those in your jurisdiction. By using the Service, you consent to such transfers.

13. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes by posting the updated policy on the Service with a revised “Last updated” date. Your continued use of the Service after such changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated policy.

14. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at support@swellwire.com.