Introduction
This privacy policy explains how we collect and use information when you visit camelMaps.
We operate as a Data Controller under the UK GDPR and the EU GDPR. Our guiding principle is "Privacy by Design": we only collect what is strictly necessary to run the site.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and keeping data collection to a minimum. We do not sell or share your personal data with third parties for marketing purposes.
Cookies We Use
| Cookie / Key | Type | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHPSESSID | Necessary | Session | Standard PHP session cookie. Used for essential site functions. No personal data is stored. |
| camelmaps_cookie_consent | LocalStorage | 30 Days | Stores your choice (Accepted/Declined) and a timestamp so we respect your preference on future visits. |
| _ga, _ga_* | Analytics | Up to 14 months | Google Analytics GA4. Measures site usage. Only active if you opt-in. Data is anonymized before processing. |
Google Analytics
If you accept cookies, we use Google Analytics 4 (GA4) to understand how visitors use camelMaps — for example, which pages are visited and how long people stay. This helps us improve the site.
Google Analytics does not collect personally identifiable information. IP addresses are anonymized before processing. Data is processed by Google in accordance with their Privacy Policy.
International Transfers: Data may be processed by Google in the USA. We ensure this is protected via Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) to meet EU/UK adequacy standards.
If you decline cookies, Google Analytics is not loaded and no analytics data is collected from your visit.
AI-Generated Content
Place descriptions and travel advisories on camelMaps are generated using AI (Anthropic Claude). While we review content where indicated, AI-generated text may contain errors, inaccuracies, or outdated information.
Always verify information from official sources before making travel or health decisions. Travel advisories should be cross-checked with your national government’s foreign travel advice.
User Accounts
You may optionally create an account on camelMaps to save places across devices. Creating an account is entirely voluntary — all core map features remain available without one.
When you register, we collect and store the following:
| Data | Purpose | Retention |
|---|---|---|
| Email address | Account identification, password reset emails, email verification | Until account is deleted |
| First and last name | Display name on your profile | Until account is deleted |
| Password (bcrypt hash) | Account authentication. We never store your password in plain text. | Until account is deleted |
| Saved places (Want to Go / Been Here) | Cross-device sync of your personal place lists | Until removed by you or account is deleted |
| Account creation date | Displayed on your profile | Until account is deleted |
| Last login date | Security and account management | Until account is deleted |
Google Sign-In
You may sign in using your Google account. If you do, we receive your name and email address from Google solely for the purpose of creating or identifying your camelMaps account. We do not receive access to your Google Drive, Gmail, contacts, or any other Google data.
Google Sign-In is governed by Google’s Privacy Policy. We request only the minimum scopes required (email and profile).
Account Deletion
You can permanently delete your account at any time from your profile page. Deletion immediately and permanently removes your account details and all saved places from our database. This action cannot be undone.
If you registered via Google Sign-In, deleting your camelMaps account does not affect your Google account in any way.
Session Data
When you are signed in, your user ID and name are stored in a server-side PHP session (PHPSESSID cookie). This session expires when you close your browser or sign out. No sensitive account data is stored in browser localStorage beyond what is needed to display your account state.
Your Choices
You can withdraw your cookie consent at any time by:
- Clearing your browser’s cookies and localStorage forcamelMaps
- Using your browser’s privacy settings to block or delete cookies
- Using a browser extension to manage cookie consent
After clearing, the cookie consent banner will reappear on your next visit and you can make a new choice.
Contact
If you have any questions about this privacy policy or how we handle data, please contact us at admin@jojamaps.com.