Privacy Policy - Alert USA

Last updated: August 5, 2025

Information We Collect

Crime Data

• Real-time incident reports from official emergency services
• 911 dispatch center data
• Police department databases
• Municipal reporting systems
• Emergency management portals

User Information

• Location Data: Only when you explicitly enable location services for personalized alerts
• Usage Analytics: Basic app usage patterns to improve our service
• Device Information: Browser type, operating system for compatibility
• No Personal Data: We do not require registration, email, or personal information

How We Use Information

• Provide real-time crime mapping and alerts
• Generate safety statistics and trends
• Improve app performance and user experience
• Send location-based safety notifications (only if enabled)

Data Sources and Accuracy

Alert USA aggregates data from:

• Puerto Rico Police Department (PRPD) systems
• 911 Emergency dispatch centers (Metro, North, South, East, West regions)
• Municipal crime reporting platforms
• PR Emergency Management Agency
• Verified news sources and official reports

While we strive for accuracy, crime data is provided "as is" from official sources and may contain delays or inaccuracies inherent in emergency reporting systems.

Location Services

• Location access is entirely optional and user-controlled
• Used only for proximity-based safety alerts
• Never stored permanently or shared with third parties
• Can be disabled at any time through device settings

Data Sharing and Third Parties

• No Personal Data Sharing: We do not sell or share personal information
• Crime Data: All crime data comes from public records and official sources
• Analytics: We use anonymized usage analytics to improve the service
• Emergency Services: We may share anonymized usage patterns with PR emergency services for public safety improvements

Data Security

• All data transmission uses HTTPS encryption
• Minimal data collection reduces security risks
• Regular security updates and monitoring
• No sensitive personal information stored

Your Rights and Controls

• Location Control: Enable/disable location services anytime
• Data Deletion: Clear app data through browser settings
• Notification Control: Manage alert preferences within the app
• App Removal: Uninstall the PWA removes all local data

Cookies and Local Storage

• Essential cookies for app functionality
• Local storage for offline capability and user preferences
• No tracking cookies or advertising cookies
• Service worker caching for improved performance

Children's Privacy

Alert USA is designed for users 13 and older. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13. If you believe a child has provided information, please contact us immediately.

Changes to Privacy Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in our practices or for legal reasons. Updates will be posted with a new "Last Updated" date. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

International Users

Alert USA is designed for Puerto Rico residents and visitors. Data is processed in the United States under applicable privacy laws. International users should review their local privacy requirements.

Contact Information

Questions about this Privacy Policy or data practices:

• Email: privacy@alertusa.news
• Web: https://alertusa.news
• Support: Use the app's feedback feature

Legal Basis (GDPR Compliance)

For European users, our legal basis for processing:

• Legitimate Interest: Public safety information provision
• Consent: Location-based services and notifications
• Legal Obligation: Compliance with emergency service regulations

This Privacy Policy is effective as of August 5, 2025, and applies to all users of the Alert USA platform.