1. Introduction

Welcome to Fake News Decoder. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparency about how we collect, use, and share your information. This Privacy Policy explains our practices regarding data collection and use when you use our mobile application.

By using Fake News Decoder, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide Directly

• Account Information: Username, email address (if provided), authentication credentials
• Profile Information: Avatar selection, frame selection, display preferences

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

• Game Data: Progress, scores, puzzles completed, achievements, daily streaks, level, XP, coins, hint inventory
• Social Features: Friends list, friend challenges, multiplayer sessions, leaderboard rankings
• Device Information: Device type, OS version, app version, unique device identifiers
• Usage Data: Session duration, features used, crash reports, performance metrics

3. How We Use Your Information

• Core Functionality: Save progress, sync data, manage account, enable social features
• Service Improvement: Analytics, bug fixes, performance optimization
• Communication: Game notifications, customer support
• Legal Compliance: Comply with legal obligations, protect rights, prevent fraud

4. Data Storage and Security

Your data is stored securely using Google Firebase Realtime Database and Firebase Authentication. Data is encrypted in transit and at rest. We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your information.

We retain your data for as long as your account is active. You can request account deletion at any time (see Section 8).

5. Third-Party Services

• Google Firebase: Authentication, database storage, analytics – Privacy Policy
• Google AdMob: Advertisement delivery – Privacy Policy
• Apple Sign In / Google Sign In: Authentication services
• App Store / Google Play Store: In-app purchase processing

6. Advertising

We display advertisements through Google AdMob. Ads may be personalized based on your interests and device information.

Opt-Out Options:

• iOS: Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising > Limit Ad Tracking
• Android: Settings > Google > Ads > Opt out of Ads Personalization

You can purchase a “Remove Ads” in-app purchase to disable all advertisements.

7. In-App Purchases

We offer in-app purchases for Remove Ads, XP Boosters, Puzzle Packs, and Premium Passes. Purchase transactions are processed by Apple (iOS) or Google (Android). We do not store your payment information.

8. Your Rights and Choices

• Access: View your profile and game data within the app
• Update: Update your username, avatar, and profile information
• Delete: Request account deletion through the app’s settings screen
• Data Portability: Request a copy of your data by contacting us
• Opt-Out: Disable personalized ads, push notifications, and analytics

9. Children’s Privacy

Fake News Decoder is suitable for users aged 4+. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us immediately.

10. International Users

If you are using our app from outside the United States, your data may be transferred to and stored in the United States or other countries. By using our app, you consent to this transfer.

11. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by posting the new Privacy Policy in the app and updating the “Last Updated” date.

12. California Privacy Rights (CCPA)

If you are a California resident, you have the right to know what personal information we collect, request deletion of your personal information, and opt out of the sale of personal information (we do not sell personal information).

13. European Privacy Rights (GDPR)

If you are in the European Economic Area (EEA), you have the right to access, rectify, erase, restrict, port, and object to processing of your data. You also have the right to withdraw consent at any time.

15. Additional Information

• We do not sell your personal information to third parties
• We may share aggregated, anonymized data for analytics purposes
• We may share data if required by law or to protect our rights