Scout Browser - Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Scout Browser ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how our mobile application collects, uses, and protects information when you use our service.

2. Intended Use and Parental Responsibility

Scout Browser is a parental tool designed to help parents and guardians find appropriate YouTube content for their children.

By using Scout Browser, you certify that:

• You are at least 18 years of age
• You are a parent or legal guardian
• You understand this app requires active supervision when used with children
• You will personally oversee any content viewing by minors
• You accept full responsibility for content selection and viewing decisions

3. Information We Collect

3.1 Search Queries

When you perform searches, we temporarily process your search queries through:

• YouTube's Data API for content discovery
• Google's Gemini AI API for content safety filtering

3.2 Device Information

We may collect basic device information necessary for app functionality:

• Device type and operating system version
• App version and crash reports for debugging
• Network connectivity status

3.3 Local Storage

The following data is stored locally on your device only:

• Privacy policy acceptance status
• Age preferences and parental controls settings
• App configuration preferences

4. Information We DO NOT Collect

Scout Browser is designed with privacy in mind. We do NOT collect:

• Personal identifying information (names, addresses, phone numbers)
• Location data
• Biometric data
• Contact information
• Photos, videos, or files from your device
• Browsing history (beyond temporary processing for safety filtering)
• User profiles or accounts

5. How We Use Information

Information is used solely for:

• Providing content search functionality
• Filtering age-inappropriate content
• Ensuring app stability and performance
• Complying with legal requirements

6. Third-Party Services

6.1 YouTube Data API

We use YouTube's Data API to search for and retrieve video content. Your search queries are subject to YouTube's Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

6.2 Google Gemini AI

We use Google's Gemini AI to analyze and filter content for age-appropriateness. This processing is subject to Google's Privacy Policy.

Important: We do not store, retain, or have control over data processed by these third-party services. Refer to their respective privacy policies for more information.

7. Data Retention

Scout Browser does not retain user data:

• Search queries are processed in real-time and not stored
• Content filtering occurs temporarily during each search
• Only local preferences are stored on your device
• No user data is transmitted to our servers for storage

8. Children's Privacy (COPPA Compliance)

Scout Browser is a parental tool designed for parent/guardian operation. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. All app operation should be supervised by parents or guardians.

Parents and guardians are solely responsible for:

• Operating the app and selecting appropriate content
• Supervising all content viewing sessions
• Configuring appropriate content filtering settings
• Ensuring child safety during any app usage

9. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures:

• All network communications use encrypted HTTPS connections
• Local data is stored securely using device-native encryption
• No user data is transmitted to external servers for storage
• Regular security assessments of third-party integrations

10. International Users

Scout Browser may be used internationally. By using our app outside the United States, you consent to having your data processed in accordance with this privacy policy and applicable laws.

11. Content Filtering Limitations

No automated content filtering system is 100% accurate. Scout Browser uses advanced AI filtering, but parents and guardians must:

• Actively supervise all content viewing
• Understand that AI filtering has inherent limitations
• Review and approve content before showing to children
• Use additional parental judgment and controls as needed

12. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Delete the app and all local data at any time
• Modify parental control settings
• Contact us with privacy concerns
• Request information about our privacy practices

13. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Significant changes will be communicated through app updates. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

14. Legal Basis for Processing

Our legal basis for processing information includes:

• Legitimate interest in providing content filtering services
• Necessity for app functionality and safety features
• Compliance with applicable laws and regulations
• Parental consent for any processing involving minors