Privacy Policy
Privacy-first approach with minimal data collection
Last updated: September 2025
Our Privacy Philosophy
Finnish Companion is built on a simple principle:
We do not collect what we do not need.
This policy explains clearly what data is (and is not) collected when you use our application or website.
1. What We Do Not Collect
We deliberately avoid collecting data that could compromise your privacy:
- No advertising identifiers
- No behavioral or usage tracking
- No third-party analytics
- No profiling for ads or marketing
We avoid collecting data that could be exploited for surveillance, marketing, or unnecessary storage.
2. Information We Handle
Authentication
If you choose to log in with Google or another identity provider, we only receive the minimal information required to authenticate you (such as your email address). This data is used solely for login purposes and is not shared or sold.
Local Data
Certain preferences, such as search history, may be stored locally on your device for your convenience. You can clear this at any time through your browser settings.
3. Google Data Handling
When you choose to sign in with Google, we are committed to handling your data with the utmost care and transparency.
3.1 Data Accessed
We request the minimum permissions necessary to authenticate you. Specifically, we access:
- Email address - Your primary Google Account email (scope: userinfo.email)
- Basic profile - Your name and publicly available personal information (scope: userinfo.profile)
- OpenID - Secure authentication token to associate you with your Google account (scope: openid)
We do NOT access your contacts, calendar, files, or any other Google services.
3.2 Data Usage
Your Google data is used exclusively for authentication purposes:
- Authenticating your identity when you sign in
- Creating and managing your Finnish Companion account
- Enabling secure access to your learning progress and settings
Your Google data is NEVER used for:
- Advertising or marketing
- User profiling or behavioral tracking
- Third-party analytics
- Data brokering or selling
3.3 Data Sharing
We do NOT share your Google data with ANY third parties.
Period. Your information stays with Finnish Companion.
We do not sell your data to advertisers, marketers, or data brokers
We do not trade or rent your information
We do not share with analytics platforms or social media networks
Exception: We may disclose data only if legally required by law enforcement or court order.
3.4 Data Storage & Protection
We implement industry-standard security practices to protect your data:
- Encrypted storage - All authentication credentials are stored using encryption
- Secure transmission - Data is transmitted over HTTPS/TLS encrypted connections
- Access control - Access to your data is restricted to essential authentication functions only
- Regular updates - Security protocols are regularly updated and monitored
- Minimal retention - We store only what is necessary and delete data when no longer needed
3.5 Data Retention & Deletion
Retention Policy:
Your Google authentication data is retained only while your account is active. We do not keep data longer than necessary.
How to Request Data Deletion:
- Email us at [email protected]
- Include "Data Deletion Request" in the subject line
- We will process your request within 30 days
- You will receive confirmation once deletion is complete
Account deletion automatically removes all associated Google data. You have the right to request data deletion at any time, and we will comply promptly.
4. Planned Features
In future versions, optional account features may allow you to synchronize your data across devices.
Our commitment:
- Participation will always be voluntary
- You can view your data at any time
- You can export your data
- You can delete your data
5. Principles We Follow
Minimalism
Collect as little as possible, only what is necessary
Transparency
Clear explanations, no dark patterns
Privacy by Design
Secure defaults, limited retention, and encryption where applicable
Eco-Friendly
Minimal server load and storage, avoiding unnecessary data hoarding
6. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy as we evolve. Updates will be published here. Continued use of our services means you accept the updated policy.
7. Contact Us
Questions or concerns about our privacy practices? Please email us at [email protected].