Privacy Policy
Summary: We don't sell your data. We don't require an account. Your searches are processed by our AI provider and are not stored by us. We use Google AdSense for ads and may use analytics to understand site usage.
This Privacy Policy describes how Matcha Spot ("we", "us", or "our"), operated at matcha-spot.com, collects, uses and shares information when you visit or use our website. By using Matcha Spot you agree to the practices described here.
1. Information we collect
1.1 Information you provide
When you use our matcha finder, you enter city and country names. This information is sent to our AI provider (Google Gemini) solely to generate search results. We do not store your searches after your session ends.
1.2 Usage data collected automatically
When you visit our site we may automatically collect technical information including your IP address (anonymised), browser type, pages visited, and device type. This may be collected via analytics tools in aggregated form.
1.3 Cookies and local storage
We use browser local storage to remember your daily usage count and Pro subscription status on your device. This stays on your device and is not transmitted to our servers. Google AdSense sets its own cookies for advertising purposes.
1.4 Payment information
If you upgrade to Pro, payment is processed entirely by Stripe. We never see, store, or have access to your card details. Stripe's privacy policy is available at stripe.com/privacy.
2. How we use your information
- To generate matcha location results in response to your searches
- To display relevant advertisements via Google AdSense
- To analyse site usage and improve our service
- To detect and prevent abuse or fraud
- To comply with our legal obligations
We do not use your searches for advertising targeting and we do not sell, rent or share your personal data with third parties for their marketing purposes.
3. Third-party services
- Google Gemini (AI provider) — processes your city searches to generate results. See Google's Privacy Policy.
- Google AdSense — serves advertisements. See Google's Privacy Policy.
- Stripe — processes Pro subscription payments. See Stripe's Privacy Policy.
- Vercel — hosts our website. See Vercel's Privacy Policy.
- Google Maps — result cards link to Google Maps for directions. We do not share your data with Google Maps directly.
4. Your rights (GDPR — EU / EEA users)
If you are located in the European Union or EEA you have rights including: access, rectification, erasure, restriction, data portability, and the right to object. Since we do not require an account and do not store search content, the personal data we hold is minimal. You may also lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority.
5. Your rights (CCPA — California users)
California residents have the right to know what personal information we collect, the right to delete it, and the right to opt out of its sale. We do not sell personal information.
6. Data retention
We do not store the city searches you enter. Usage counts in your browser's local storage clear after 24 hours. Any analytics data is retained in anonymised, aggregated form.
7. Children's privacy
Matcha Spot is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.
8. Changes to this policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will post the updated policy on this page with a new "Last updated" date. Continued use of Matcha Spot after changes constitutes acceptance.