At a Glance
Locate-a-Quake provides tools to explore global seismic activity. We only gather the information necessary to deliver map tiles, earthquake data, and optional usage analytics. We never sell personal information.
Information We Collect
- Usage data: Basic diagnostics such as page views, feature clicks, and timestamps may be captured through privacy-focused analytics to improve reliability.
- Search inputs: Earthquake query parameters (e.g., magnitude range, date filters) are sent to the USGS Earthquake Hazards API solely for retrieving results. These requests are not stored on our servers.
- Map interactions: Map tiles and geocoding lookups are provided by third parties (e.g., OpenStreetMap, CARTO). Each provider may receive your IP address to serve content.
How We Use Information
- Operate and maintain the Locate-a-Quake tools and visualisations.
- Diagnose performance issues, fix bugs, and prevent misuse.
- Guide roadmap decisions by understanding aggregated feature usage.
Third-Party Services
We rely on trusted third-party providers to deliver essential functionality:
- USGS Earthquake Hazards Program: Supplies earthquake event data via API requests based on your filters.
- OpenStreetMap, OpenTopoMap, CARTO, Esri: Provide map tiles and basemaps shown in the application.
- Leaflet: The mapping library used to render interactive maps in your browser.
- Advertising/monetisation services: If enabled, third-party ad networks may use cookies or similar technologies to deliver relevant ads and measure performance.
Each provider operates under its own privacy policy. Review their documentation to understand how they handle data.
Cookies and Local Storage
Locate-a-Quake strives to minimise the use of cookies. However, third-party services (analytics, ads, or map providers) may set cookies or use local storage. You can control these technologies through your browser settings or opt-out tools supplied by each provider.
Data Retention
We store high-level analytics for up to 12 months to monitor engagement trends. Diagnostic logs used for debugging are typically retained for 30 days unless required for longer to address security incidents.
Your Choices & Rights
- Adjust browser settings to block cookies or tracking scripts from third parties.
- Use privacy extensions or VPN services if you want to limit network metadata exposure.
- Contact us to request clarification, access, or deletion of any information associated with you.
International Users
The services we integrate may process data in the United States, the European Union, or other jurisdictions. By using Locate-a-Quake you consent to the transfer of information to these locations, which may have different data protection laws.
Policy Updates
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect new features, legal requirements, or best practices. The "Last Updated" date will be adjusted accordingly. Significant changes will be highlighted in the app.
Contact
If you have privacy questions or requests, email [email protected]. We aim to respond within five business days.
Last Updated: October 2025