HikeClock is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains what data we collect, how we use it, and your rights regarding your information.
1. Information We Collect
1.1 Information You Provide
When you use HikeClock's calculator, you enter hiking parameters such as distance, elevation, terrain type, fitness level, and other planning details. This data:
- Is processed entirely in your web browser
- Is stored locally on your device using browser local storage
- Is not transmitted to our servers unless you use the share feature
- Can be cleared by clearing your browser data or local storage
1.2 Automatically Collected Information
Like most websites, we automatically collect certain technical information when you use HikeClock:
- Usage Data: Pages visited, features used, time spent on site, referring websites
- Device Information: Browser type and version, device type, operating system
- Log Data: IP address (anonymized), timestamps, error logs
This information is collected anonymously and used only for improving the service.
1.3 Cookies and Local Storage
We use browser storage technologies for:
- Essential functionality: Saving your calculator inputs, preferences, and settings
- Analytics: Understanding how the tool is used to improve features (anonymized data)
You can disable cookies and local storage in your browser settings. Some features may not work properly if storage is disabled.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use collected information to:
- Provide and maintain the calculator service
- Process your calculations and display results
- Improve and optimize the user experience
- Fix bugs and technical issues
- Analyze usage patterns to guide feature development
- Ensure security and prevent abuse of the service
What We Do NOT Do:
- We do not sell your data to third parties
- We do not use your data for advertising purposes
- We do not track you across other websites
- We do not require accounts or collect personal identification information
3. Data Sharing and Disclosure
3.1 Service Providers
We use third-party services that may have access to anonymized, aggregated data:
- Hosting Services: Our hosting provider (e.g., Vercel) hosts the website infrastructure
- Analytics Services: We may use privacy-focused analytics to understand usage patterns
These service providers are contractually obligated to protect your information.
3.2 Legal Requirements
We may disclose information if required by law, such as in response to a court order, subpoena, or other legal process.
3.3 Shared Links
When you use the “Share” feature, your calculator inputs are encoded in the URL. Anyone with that URL can see those inputs. Only share links with people you trust.
4. Data Security
We implement reasonable security measures to protect your information:
- HTTPS encryption for all data transmission
- Secure, industry-standard hosting infrastructure
- Regular security updates and monitoring
- Minimal data collection to reduce privacy risks
However, no internet transmission is completely secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security of information transmitted to or stored by our service.
5. Your Privacy Rights
5.1 General Rights
You have the right to:
- Access: Since data is stored locally, you control and can access it directly through your browser
- Delete: Clear your browser's local storage and cookies to remove all stored data
- Opt-out: Disable cookies or use privacy-focused browsers to limit data collection
- Export: Use browser developer tools to export your locally stored data
5.2 Regional Rights
For EU/EEA Residents (GDPR)
You have additional rights under the General Data Protection Regulation:
- Right to data portability
- Right to rectification
- Right to object to processing
- Right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority
For California Residents (CCPA)
You have rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act:
- Right to know what personal information is collected
- Right to request deletion of personal information
- Right to opt-out of sale of personal information (we do not sell data)
- Right to non-discrimination for exercising your rights
6. Children's Privacy
HikeClock is not directed at children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided information to us, please contact us so we can delete it.
7. International Data Transfers
If you access HikeClock from outside the country where our servers are located, your information may be transferred internationally. By using the service, you consent to such transfers.
8. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date. Continued use of HikeClock after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, your data, or how we handle your information, please visit our About page for contact information.