Privacy Policy
Last updated: August 29, 2026
1. Introduction
MeetRiders ("we", "our", "us") operates the MeetRiders mobile application and website at https://meet-riders.vercel.app ("Service"). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you use our Service. MeetRiders is a university-exclusive travel-sharing platform that helps students share commutes.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Account Information
- University email address (.edu verification) for account creation
- Name, major, bio, and profile photo
- Student verification status
2.2 Location Data
- Precise location (ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION) - to pin pickup/drop-off points and center the map
- Approximate location (ACCESS_COARSE_LOCATION) - to discover nearby rides
- Location is collected only when you use the app and grant permission. You can deny location and still browse, but hosting/joining rides requires it.
2.3 Media
- Profile photos and ride images via camera/gallery (READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE / READ_MEDIA_IMAGES)
- Images are stored in Supabase Storage
2.4 Usage Data
- Trip/party details you create (destination, transport mode, companions)
- Ratings, ride history, and in-app interactions
- Device information (OS, app version) for diagnostics
3. How We Use Your Information
- To create and manage your account and verify student status
- To show nearby parties on map/list and match riders
- To let hosts manage join requests and communicate
- To calculate cost sharing and improve the Service
- To send notifications about ride requests and updates
- We do not sell your data or show third-party ads
4. Third-Party Services
We use trusted services to operate the app:
- Supabase (PostgreSQL, Auth, Storage) - hosts our backend at hpzuzgccyusizsgvfhmr.supabase.co. Data is stored securely with Row Level Security.
- Google Maps / OpenStreetMap (Leaflet) - for map display
- Expo - for app delivery
- No analytics or advertising trackers
5. Data Sharing
We share data only as needed: your public profile (name, major, bio, photo) and trip details are visible to other verified students when you host/join a party. We do not share location history publicly. We may disclose data if required by law or to protect safety.
6. Data Retention
We keep your account data while your account is active. You can request deletion at any time. Trip history is kept for your records until you delete your account. We may retain anonymized data for analytics.
7. Your Rights
- Access, update, or delete your profile in Settings
- Revoke location/photo permissions in device Settings
- Request account deletion: email patarylohitaksha06@gmail.com
- Opt out of non-essential notifications
8. Security
We use industry-standard encryption (HTTPS, Supabase RLS) to protect data. No system is 100% secure, but we regularly review our protections.
9. Children's Privacy
The Service is for university students (18+). We do not knowingly collect data from children under 13.
10. Permissions Explained
Android permissions requested:
- ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION / COARSE_LOCATION - map centering and ride creation (optional, required to host)
- CAMERA / READ_MEDIA_IMAGES / READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE - picking profile/ride photos (optional)
iOS: NSLocationWhenInUseUsageDescription - same purpose as Android location.
11. Changes to This Policy
We will update this page and change the "Last updated" date. Continued use after changes means you accept the new policy.
12. Contact Us
Questions? Contact: patarylohitaksha06@gmail.com
Developer: Lohit Aksha (patarylohitaksha06@gmail.com) - Personal account ID: 5844050713225085106
If you are in the EU, you also have the right to lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority.