Privacy Policy
Last Updated: October 20, 2025
Introduction
ScubaBuddy ("we," "our," or "the app") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we handle information in connection with your use of the ScubaBuddy iOS application.
Information We Collect
We do not collect, transmit, or store any personal information on our servers.
Dive Log Data
- All dive information you enter (including dive logs, certifications, dive sites, and any other data) is stored on your device and optionally in your private iCloud account
- We do not have access to your dive logs or any information you enter into the app
- Your data is not backed up to our servers or transmitted to us in any way
Location Data
- ScubaBuddy may request access to your device's location services to display dive sites on a map and to help you log the location of your dives
- Location data is only stored locally on your device and in your private iCloud account (if you enable iCloud syncing)
- Location data is never transmitted to our servers or any third parties
- You can enable or disable location access at any time through your device settings
- The app uses Apple Maps to display dive site locations
Photo Access
- ScubaBuddy may request access to your device's photo library to allow you to select photos for your profile picture and to upload images of certification cards
- All photos you upload are stored only on your device and optionally in your private iCloud account (if you enable iCloud syncing)
- We do not have access to your photo library or any photos you upload to the app
- Photos are never transmitted to our servers or any third parties
- You can enable or disable photo access at any time through your device settings (Settings > Privacy & Security > Photos > ScubaBuddy)
- The app only accesses photos that you explicitly select; we do not scan or access your entire photo library
How We Use Your Information
Since all data remains on your device and in your private iCloud account, we do not use, process, or analyze any of your information. We have no access to your dive data.
Data Storage and Syncing
Local Storage
- All app data is stored locally on your iOS device by default
- We do not operate any servers or databases that store your information
Optional iCloud Sync
ScubaBuddy offers an optional iCloud syncing feature that allows you to:
- Sync your dive data across all your Apple devices signed in with the same Apple ID
- Automatically back up your dive logs to your private iCloud account
- Access your data even if you switch to a new device
Important details about iCloud syncing:
- Opt-in only: iCloud syncing is completely optional. You must explicitly enable this feature in the app settings
- Full encryption: All data synced to iCloud is encrypted in transit and at rest
- Your private iCloud: Data is stored in your personal iCloud account, not on ScubaBuddy servers
- Apple's control: Your synced data is subject to Apple's iCloud Terms and Conditions and Apple's Privacy Policy
- Easy opt-out: You can disable iCloud syncing at any time in the app settings. Disabling sync will not delete your local data, but will stop future syncing
- No access: We cannot access, view, or retrieve your data from iCloud. Only you have access through your Apple ID
Third-Party Services
Apple Services
ScubaBuddy uses the following Apple services:
- Apple Maps: To display dive site locations. Your use of maps features is subject to Apple's Privacy Policy
- iCloud (optional): If you enable iCloud syncing, your data is stored in your personal iCloud account according to Apple's iCloud Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy
We do not use any third-party analytics, advertising, or tracking services.
Data Sharing
We do not share, sell, rent, or transfer any of your data to third parties because we do not collect or have access to your data. When you enable iCloud syncing, your data is stored in your personal iCloud account, which is controlled by you and subject to Apple's privacy policies.
Children's Privacy
ScubaBuddy does not knowingly collect any information from children. The app is designed for use by certified scuba divers, who must be at least 10 years old (or older, depending on certification level) and should use the app under parental guidance if they are minors.
Data Security
We take the security of your data seriously:
- All data stored locally on your device is protected by your device's security measures
- If you enable iCloud syncing, all data is encrypted in transit using industry-standard encryption protocols
- Data stored in iCloud is encrypted at rest and protected by your Apple ID credentials
- We recommend using a strong device passcode, keeping your iOS updated, and enabling two-factor authentication on your Apple ID
Your Rights and Choices
- Access and Control: You have complete control over all data in the app since it resides on your device and in your personal iCloud account (if enabled)
- Deletion: You can delete any dive logs or data within the app. To delete all data, you can either use the in-app deletion features or uninstall the app. To delete iCloud data, disable iCloud sync and the data will be removed from iCloud
- Location Access: You can enable or disable location permissions at any time in your device settings (Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > ScubaBuddy)
- Photo Access: You can enable or disable photo library permissions at any time in your device settings (Settings > Privacy & Security > Photos > ScubaBuddy)
- iCloud Sync: You can enable or disable iCloud syncing at any time in the app settings. This is completely optional and under your control
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. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at: