🛡️ Privacy Policy

🌟Introduction

Welcome to Galactic Crossword ("we," "our," or "us"). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website and use our crossword puzzle application. Please read this privacy policy carefully. If you do not agree with the terms of this privacy policy, please do not access the site.

📊Information We Collect

Personal Information

When you create an account, we may collect:

• Name (first and last name)
• Email address
• Password (encrypted and securely stored)
• Profile preferences and settings

Usage Data

We automatically collect certain information when you use our service:

• Puzzle completion times and scores
• Achievement progress and unlocked achievements
• Category preferences and favorites
• Login timestamps and session data
• Device information and browser type
• IP address and approximate location

OAuth Information

If you choose to sign in with Google:

• Google account email address
• Basic profile information (name, profile picture)
• We do not access your Google contacts, emails, or other Google services

🎯How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide and maintain our crossword puzzle service
• Create and manage your user account
• Track your puzzle progress and achievements
• Customize your experience with favorite categories
• Generate leaderboards and statistics
• Improve our service and develop new features
• Send you important service updates (with your consent)
• Respond to your questions and provide customer support
• Ensure the security and integrity of our service

🤝Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer your personal information to third parties, except in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: Trusted third parties who help us operate our website and serve our users
• Legal Requirements: When required to comply with applicable laws or legal processes
• Safety and Security: To protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of our users
• Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets

🔒Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information:

• Passwords are encrypted using industry-standard bcrypt hashing
• All data transmission is secured with SSL/TLS encryption
• Regular security audits and updates
• Limited access to personal data on a need-to-know basis
• Secure server infrastructure and database protection

However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. While we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your information, we cannot guarantee its absolute security.

⚖️Your Privacy Rights

You have the following rights regarding your personal information:

• Access: Request a copy of the personal information we hold about you
• Update: Correct or update your personal information through your profile settings
• Delete: Request deletion of your account and associated data
• Portability: Request a copy of your data in a structured format
• Opt-out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the information provided below.

🍪Cookies and Local Storage

We use cookies and local storage to enhance your experience:

• Essential Cookies: Required for basic site functionality and user authentication
• Preference Cookies: Remember your settings and preferences
• Analytics: Help us understand how users interact with our service

You can control cookies through your browser settings, but disabling certain cookies may limit site functionality.

👶Children's Privacy

Our service is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us immediately.

📝Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the "last updated" date. You are advised to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any changes. Changes to this Privacy Policy are effective when they are posted on this page.

📧Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us: