Effective Date: 3rd June, 2025

This Privacy Policy describes how Sudoku Multiplayer ("we," "our," or "us") collects, uses, and shares your information when you use our Sudoku mobile application (the "App"). We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your data transparently.

1. What Information We Collect

We collect information to provide and improve our App, and to offer you a personalized and enjoyable experience. The types of information we collect include:

Information You Provide Directly:

  • Account Information: When you log in using Google, Apple, or anonymously, we collect your username. This is used for public display within the App (e.g., leaderboards, multiplayer interactions).
  • Important Note on Anonymous Accounts: Anonymous accounts are linked only to your current device. Logging out or uninstalling the App will permanently delete anonymous account data. We recommend using Google or Apple login to retain data across devices.
  • Email Address: If you use Google or Apple login, your email is handled via Firebase Authentication. We do not store it in our own databases.

Information Collected Automatically:

  • Firebase Services (Google):
    • Firebase Analytics: Tracks anonymized usage for improving the App.
    • Firebase Crashlytics: Logs crashes and errors for bug fixing.
    • Firebase Remote Config: Manages real-time configuration updates.
    • Cloud Firestore & Firebase Storage: Stores game data like board states, progress, chat messages (if applicable). Images may be temporarily stored if used for scanning or profiles.
    • Firebase Authentication: Handles secure login via Google, Apple, or anonymous access.
  • Advertising (Google AdMob - Non-Personalized Ads):
    • Uses contextual information, not personal behavior.
    • Collects device type, OS, IP address (for general location and fraud prevention), and ad interaction data.
  • Device Information (via DeviceInfoPlus): Includes device model, OS version, non-personal device IDs, and network info.
  • Camera and Photo Access: Via camera and image_picker:
    • Used to scan Sudoku puzzles or upload profile pictures (if implemented).
    • Requires explicit permission and does not store images beyond their use unless you choose to save them.
  • Other Services:
    • PackageInfoPlus: Provides app version/build info.
    • url_launcher: Opens external links.
    • share_plus: Enables content sharing.
    • feedback: Allows bug reports and logs.
    • Hive Flutter: Stores local offline data (preferences, progress), which is not uploaded.

2. How We Use Your Information

  • Provide and Operate the App: Multiplayer matching, leaderboard, saving progress, authenticating users.
  • Improve and Personalize Experience: Analyze user behavior, fix bugs, deliver updates.
  • Serve Ads: Show non-personalized ads through AdMob.
  • Communicate with You: Respond to support requests and provide updates.
  • Ensure Security: Detect and prevent fraud and abuse.

3. How We Share Your Information

  • With Other Players: Your username is visible during multiplayer games and leaderboards.
  • With Service Providers: Google's Firebase and AdMob services handle analytics, auth, storage, crash reporting, etc.
  • Legal Requirements: We may share data when legally obligated.
  • Business Transfers: In case of acquisition or merger, data may be transferred. We’ll notify users of any such event.

4. Legal Basis for Processing (For GDPR Users)

For users in the EU/EEA, we rely on:

  • Consent: For logins, camera access, etc.
  • Legitimate Interests: To improve features, provide multiplayer, and show non-personalized ads.
  • Performance of a Contract: To deliver services you request.
  • Legal Obligations: When required by applicable law.

You may withdraw your consent at any time.

5. Your Choices and Rights

You may have the right to:

  • Access your data
  • Request corrections
  • Delete your data
  • Object to processing
  • Request data portability
  • Withdraw previously given consent

To exercise your rights or delete your account, contact us at charanagame@gmail.com.

6. Account Deletion

You may request deletion through the App or by email. Note for anonymous users: logging out or uninstalling the app will permanently delete your data.

Once a deletion request is submitted, your account will be deactivated, and your data will be scheduled for permanent deletion after 30 days. You may cancel the deletion by logging in again during this period.

After the 30-day window, your account and associated data will be irreversibly erased and cannot be recovered.

We may retain anonymized data for analytics purposes.

7. Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary to operate the App and meet legal obligations. After that, data is deleted or anonymized.

8. Security

We use encryption, secure storage, and Firebase tools to protect data. However, no method is 100% secure.

9. Children’s Privacy

The App is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from them. If discovered, such data will be deleted promptly.

10. International Data Transfers

Your data may be stored in other countries. We ensure adequate safeguards are in place during such transfers, consistent with this Privacy Policy.

11. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Policy occasionally. Any changes will be announced in the App or on this page. Continued use of the App signifies agreement to the updated terms.

12. Contact Us

If you have any questions, requests, or concerns, please contact:

Email: charanagame@gmail.com