Effective date: June 1, 2025 · Last updated: June 1, 2025
Who we are
CopticFinder ("the App", "we", "us") is a digital directory of Coptic Orthodox churches that helps users find nearby churches and service schedules. We operate both the mobile application and the website at copticfinder.app.
By using the App, you agree to the data practices described in this policy.
Data we collect
| Data type | When collected | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Name & email | When signing up via email, Google, or Apple | No (app works without account) |
| Precise location (GPS) | Only when tapping "Churches Near Me" | No (feature is optional) |
| Device identifier (push token) | When enabling notifications | No (notifications are optional) |
| User-submitted content | Comments, reports, verification votes | No (fully optional) |
| Usage data | In-app interactions (via AdMob only) | Managed via AdMob settings |
📌 Important note: The core app — browsing churches, service schedules, and the map — works completely without an account and without location permission.
Location data
We request location permission <strong>only</strong> when you tap the "Churches Near Me" button. At that point, your GPS coordinates are sent to our servers once to find the nearest churches.
- Location is never collected automatically or in the background.
- We do not store your precise coordinates in our database after the request completes.
- We do not share your location with third parties for advertising purposes.
- You can deny the permission and still use the full app by selecting your region manually.
- Church managers may optionally use location to pin a church location on the map.
How we use your data
- Providing the service: Showing nearby churches and service schedules, and sending the reminders you requested.
- Improving accuracy: Your votes and reports help improve the reliability of church data for everyone.
- Authentication: Verifying your identity to enable account features like church notifications and management.
- Notifications: Sending reminders before services you subscribed to.
We do not sell your data or use it for any purpose not mentioned above.
Third-party sharing
| Service | Purpose | Privacy policy |
|---|---|---|
| Google AdMob | Displaying in-app advertisements | Google Privacy |
| Firebase (Google) | FCM notifications and verification emails | Firebase Privacy |
| Google Sign-In | Sign in with Google account (optional) | Google Privacy |
| Apple Sign-In | Sign in with Apple account (optional) | Apple Privacy |
| OpenStreetMap | Interactive map tiles (no personal data sent) | OSM Privacy |
We do not share your data with any party beyond those listed above.
Notifications & reminders
If you grant notification permission, we use OneSignal and Firebase to deliver service reminders you subscribed to.
- You can unsubscribe from each church independently from within the app.
- You can disable all notifications from your device settings at any time.
Advertising
The app displays advertisements from Google AdMob. AdMob may collect device identifiers and interaction data for ad targeting.
To manage ad preferences or opt out of personalized ads:
- Android: Settings → Google → Ads → Opt out of Ads Personalization.
Data retention
- Account data: Retained until you delete your account.
- Location data: Not stored — used for the search query then discarded immediately.
- Submitted content (comments, reports): Remains until you delete it or your account.
- Device identifier: Removed when you unsubscribe from notifications or delete your account.
Your rights
- Access: Request a copy of the data we hold about you.
- Correction: Edit your account data within the app or by contacting us.
- Deletion: Delete your account and all associated data. Request deletion →
- Withdraw consent (notifications): Opt out of notifications any time from settings or each church's page.
Children's privacy
The app is intended for users aged 13 and above. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 13. If you believe a child has submitted data, please contact us for immediate removal.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes via an in-app notice or email. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.