Privacy Policy

Last updated: March 21, 2026

Backchannel ("the Game") is operated by IGELWERKS ("we", "us"). This policy describes how we collect, use, and protect your information.

Information We Collect

Account information: When you sign in with Google, we receive your Google account email address, display name, and profile photo. We do not access your Google password, contacts, or other Google data.

Game data: We store your game state, match history, card hands, and in-game actions on our servers to provide the game experience.

Device tokens: If you enable push notifications, we store a device token to deliver notifications. You can unregister at any time.

Analytics: We use Firebase Analytics to collect anonymous usage data (session duration, feature usage, crash reports). This data is not linked to your identity.

How We Use Your Information

• To provide and operate the game
• To match you with other players
• To send game notifications (turn alerts, invites)
• To improve the game based on aggregate usage patterns

Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal information. We share data only with:

• Google Firebase: Authentication, database, hosting, and analytics infrastructure
• Other players: Your display name and game actions are visible to players in your matches

Data Retention

Game data is retained while your account is active. Completed game records are archived for match history. You may request deletion of your account and associated data by contacting us.

Security

All data is transmitted over HTTPS. Game state is protected by Firebase security rules that enforce per-player access controls. Secrets are managed via Google Cloud Secret Manager.

Children

Backchannel is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13.

Changes

We may update this policy. Material changes will be communicated in-app.

Contact

Questions about this policy: support@igelwerks.net