Effective Date: 26 March, 2026
We are dedicated to safeguarding your personal information and ensuring your privacy. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your data. By participating in the event and using the Croc Watch mobile application, you consent to the practices described in this policy.
1. Information We Collect
We collect various types of information to manage your participation in the Charotar Crocodile Count. This includes:
- Personal Details: Name, contact information (email, phone number), and payment information.
- Event-Related Information: Registration details, feedback, and user-submitted reports.
- Device Information: Model, operating system version, and app performance logs for crash reporting.
2. Sensitive Permissions & Location Data
To provide its core functionality (mapping crocodile sightings), our app requires access to sensitive information:
- Location Data (GPS): The app collects precise location data to record the exact coordinates of crocodile sightings. This data is essential for scientific mapping and conservation efforts.
- Foreground Usage: Location data is accessed while the app is actively being used to submit a report.
- Background Usage: Croc Watch app does not collect location data in the background when the app is closed.
- Photos and Camera: We access your camera and photo gallery only if you choose to attach an image to a sighting report.
3. How We Use Your Information
The information we collect is utilized to:
- Process your registration and manage participation.
- Communicate event details and respond to inquiries.
- Analyze sighting data: Location coordinates and photos are used by the Voluntary Nature Conservancy for research and wildlife management.
- Improve our services and app performance.
4. Data Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell or lease your personal information to third parties. We may share your information with:
- Third-party service providers who assist in event management, payment processing, and data hosting.
- Legal authorities, if required by law or to protect our rights.
5. Data Security
We employ appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access or misuse. However, no method of electronic storage or transmission is 100% secure; therefore, we cannot guarantee absolute protection.
6. Data Deletion and Retention
We provide users with the right to request the deletion of their personal data. Upon a valid deletion request:
- Personal Identifiable Information (PII): We will permanently delete your name, email address, phone number, and account credentials from our active databases.
- Citizen Science Research Data: As this is a scientific research project, crocodile sighting reports (including GPS coordinates, timestamps, and uploaded images) are considered public interest research data. These reports will be anonymized and retained for ongoing conservation analysis. Once anonymized, these records can no longer be linked back to you personally.
To request data deletion, please email us at info@vncindia.org with the subject “Data Deletion Request”.
7. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience on our website. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings.
8. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page and will take effect immediately upon posting.
9. Contact Us
For any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please reach out to us at:
Email: team@crocodilecount.org / info@vncindia.org
Phone: +91 98981 42170
Organization: Voluntary Nature Conservancy
Thank you for your trust and support. We are committed to providing a secure and respectful experience for all participants.