Privacy Policy

Last Updated: March 21, 2026

This Privacy Policy describes how MaltaBin ("we", "our", or "the app") collects, uses, and protects your information when you use our mobile application.

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Location Information

MaltaBin uses location services to automatically detect your locality within Malta or Gozo to provide accurate waste collection schedules. This functionality is optional and requires your explicit permission.

• Automatic Location Detection: When you grant location permission, the app uses Apple Maps (MapKit) to determine your locality through reverse geocoding. We only use your approximate location (within 100 meters accuracy) to identify which Maltese locality you are in.
• Manual Location Selection: You can choose to manually select your locality instead of using automatic detection. In this case, no location data is accessed.
• Location Storage: Your selected locality preference (either automatically detected or manually chosen) is stored locally on your device only. We do not store or transmit your precise GPS coordinates to any external servers.

1.2 App Preferences

The app stores the following preferences locally on your device:

• Your selected locality (for displaying collection schedules)
• Location detection preference (automatic or manual)
• Notification and reminder preferences
• Collection completion status (which collections you've marked as completed)
• Onboarding completion status

1.3 Notification Data

If you enable notifications, the app schedules local notifications on your device to remind you about upcoming waste collections. These notifications are created and stored locally on your device only.

1.4 In-App Purchases

MaltaBin may offer optional in-app purchases. All purchases are processed through Apple's In-App Purchase system (StoreKit). We do not collect, process, or store your payment card numbers, bank account details, or similar financial information; Apple handles payment processing. Limited information related to your purchases (for example, whether a purchase completed successfully or the current status of a subscription) may be available to the app on your device so we can unlock or deliver the features you paid for. Apple's privacy policy applies to App Store checkout and payment data.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information collected solely for the following purposes:

• To display accurate waste collection schedules for your selected locality
• To provide collection reminders and notifications (if enabled)
• To remember your preferences and settings
• To improve the app's functionality and user experience
• To provide optional paid features or content you choose to buy through in-app purchase

3. Data Storage and Security

3.1 Local Storage

All data collected by MaltaBin is stored locally on your device using iOS's standard storage mechanisms (UserDefaults and App Groups). This includes:

• Your location preferences
• App settings and preferences
• Collection status information

3.2 No External Transmission

We do not transmit, share, or send any of your personal data to external servers or third-party services for the app's own storage or analytics. App preferences, locality choices, and related data described above remain on your device and are not sent to servers we operate.

If you use optional in-app purchases, checkout and payment processing occur through Apple's In-App Purchase system as described in Section 1.4; we do not receive your full payment credentials and do not operate our own payment servers.

3.3 Third-Party Services

MaltaBin uses the following Apple services that are integrated into iOS:

• Apple Maps (MapKit): Used for reverse geocoding to determine your locality. Apple's privacy policy applies to their services. We do not receive or store your precise coordinates from Apple.
• Core Location: Used for location services with your permission. Location data is processed locally and never transmitted.
• UserNotifications: Used for local notifications only. All notifications are created and stored locally on your device.
• In-App Purchases (StoreKit): Used if you choose to buy optional features or content. Apple processes payments and related transaction data in line with Apple's privacy policy.

4. Data Sharing

We do not share, sell, or rent your personal information to any third parties. Your data remains private and is only used within the app on your device.

5. Your Rights and Choices

You have full control over your data:

• Location Permission: You can grant or revoke location permission at any time through your device's Settings app. The app will continue to function with manual location selection if you revoke permission.
• Notification Permission: You can enable or disable notifications at any time through your device's Settings app or within the app's settings.
• Data Deletion: You can delete all app data by uninstalling the app from your device. All locally stored data will be removed.
• Manual Location Override: You can switch from automatic to manual location selection at any time within the app.
• In-App Purchases: You can view purchase history, manage subscriptions, and cancel renewals through your Apple ID settings in the App Store or in the Settings app on your device.

6. Children's Privacy

MaltaBin does not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so we can delete such information.

7. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by updating the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy. You are advised to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any changes.

8. Contact Us

9. Compliance

This Privacy Policy is designed to comply with:

• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
• Apple's App Store Review Guidelines
• iOS Privacy Requirements

By using MaltaBin, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this Privacy Policy.