Privacy Policy

Last updated: February 19, 2026

Pittsburgh Neighborhood Collector ("the Game") is a personal project operated by Doug Shipe. This policy explains what information the Game collects, how it is used, and your choices regarding that information.

Information We Collect

When you create an account, we collect your first name, email address, and a password. Your password is stored in hashed form and is never visible to anyone, including the site operator.

When you use the Game, we collect your precise GPS location, including coordinates and timestamps, each time you check in to a neighborhood. This data is used to verify your physical presence in a neighborhood, record your check-in history, and power game features like progress tracking and leaderboards.

If you choose to upload photos or tips, that content is stored on our servers and may be displayed to other users of the Game as part of the neighborhood experience.

How We Use Your Information

Your information is used solely to operate the Game. This includes verifying neighborhood check-ins, displaying your name on leaderboards, enabling password resets via email, storing your game progress, and displaying user-submitted photos and tips to other players.

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with any third parties.

Cookies

The Game uses a session cookie to keep you logged in when you select the "Stay logged in" option. This cookie is essential for the site to function and is not used for tracking.

We also use Google AdSense to display advertisements. Google AdSense may place cookies on your device and use tracking technologies to serve ads based on your interests and browsing history. You can learn more about how Google uses your information at google.com/policies/technologies/partner-sites. You can opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google's Ad Settings.

Data Storage and Security

All data is stored on privately operated servers located in the United States. While we take reasonable precautions to protect your information, no method of electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. This is a personal project and not operated by a registered business entity.

Children

The Game is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child under 13 has created an account, please contact us and we will delete the account and associated data.

Your Rights

You may request deletion of your account and all associated data at any time by emailing PNC@dougshipe.com. Upon receiving your request, we will delete your account, check-in history, uploaded content, and any other personal information associated with your account.

Third-Party Services

The Game uses Google AdSense for advertising. Google's use of advertising cookies enables it and its partners to serve ads based on your visit to this site and other sites on the internet. No other third-party services receive your personal data.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Continued use of the Game after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact

For questions about this privacy policy or to request data deletion, contact Doug Shipe at PNC@dougshipe.com.