Privacy Policy

Start Shortcut · Last updated: July 2026 · Return to app · Terms of Service

This Privacy Policy explains how Start Shortcut (“we”) collects, uses, shares, and protects personal information when you use our app and website. This policy is designed to meet Google Play User Data requirements and applicable privacy standards.

1. Information we collect

Data type	Examples	How collected
Account	Phone number, name, address	You provide during sign-up and profile setup
Verification	SMS OTP codes	Firebase Phone Authentication (Google)
Location	GPS coordinates while using rides/maps/delivery	Device permission, when feature is used
Media	Profile photos, marketplace images, partner ID documents	Camera or gallery, when you upload
Usage	Orders, rides, listings, app interactions	Automatically when you use the service
Device	Push notification tokens	When you enable notifications
Advertising & identifiers	Ad request data, device/app identifiers, approximate location signals, diagnostics	Processed by Google AdMob when ads are enabled in the app

2. How we use information

• Create and manage your account
• Provide rides, marketplace, and food ordering features
• Match riders with passengers and show maps (Google Maps)
• Send transactional notifications (orders, ride status)
• Show in-app advertising and measure ad performance when ads are enabled
• Review partner applications and prevent fraud
• Improve security and comply with legal obligations

We do not sell your personal data.

3. Permissions (Android & iOS)

We request permissions only in context, with an in-app explanation before the system prompt:

• Location (while in use): ride pickup, fare calculation, delivery address
• Camera: partner identity verification photos
• Photos / library: profile and marketplace uploads
• Notifications: order and ride updates (optional, controlled in Settings)

4. Third-party services

• Google Firebase — authentication, cloud messaging
• Google Maps Platform — map display and location services
• Google AdMob — in-app advertising, ad delivery, fraud prevention, and measurement

These providers process data under their own privacy policies. If ads are shown, Google AdMob may process advertising identifiers, IP address, approximate location, app interactions, and device diagnostics according to Google's policies. See Google Privacy Policy.

5. Data retention

We retain data while your account is active and as needed for legal, security, and operational purposes. You can permanently delete your account in the app under Settings → Delete My Account or on our Delete Account page. Account deletion removes profile data, emergency contacts, partner application documents, saved items, and other directly linked personal data. Some completed transaction records may be retained only in anonymized form where required by law or security obligations.

6. Security

We use HTTPS, secure authentication tokens, and access controls. No method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure; we work to protect your data using industry-standard measures.

7. Children’s privacy

Start Shortcut is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 13. Contact us if you believe a child has provided personal information.

8. Your choices

• Update profile information in the app
• Disable push notifications in Settings
• Decline optional permissions (some features may not work)
• Manage ad preferences through your Google account and device settings where supported
• Delete your account in-app or via www.startshortcut.com/delete-account

9. International users

Our service operates primarily in Pakistan. Data may be processed on servers used by our hosting and cloud providers.

10. Changes

We may update this policy. Material changes will be reflected with a new “Last updated” date. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

11. Contact

Email: support@startshortcut.com
Website: www.startshortcut.com