Understanding Location Services on Foursquare:
When you visit Foursquare.com or use the Foursquare Swarm app, you may encounter requests to access your current location. Here’s why we ask for it and how we handle your data responsibly:
1. Why Does Foursquare.com Want to Use My Current Location?
When you see a pop-up asking if Foursquare.com can use your current location, it’s because we want to provide you with location-based suggestions tailored to where you are. Here's how it works:
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Allow or Disallow: You can click "Allow" to receive personalized suggestions relative to your current location. We won’t mark your exact location or share it with other users unless you check in to that spot through the app. Alternatively, you can choose "Disallow" to use the site without these location-dependent features.
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Browser Preferences: If you’d rather not be asked each time, you can adjust your browser settings. Simply go to your browser’s preferences, find the content settings tab, and scroll down to the location. There, you can choose from options like "Allow always," "Ask me each time," or "Never allow (& manage exceptions)."
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Privacy Assurance: Rest assured, when your browser shares your location with Foursquare, we only display it to you on the website. We do not share it with your Swarm friends unless you explicitly check-in. By allowing us to access this information, you enable us to provide you with smart and interesting suggestions for nearby places.
2. Does Foursquare Swarm Track My Location?
Foursquare Swarm is all about location, so yes, it needs to know your location to work effectively meaning that some of the app's features will not work properly without access to your location. Here's how we handle your location data:
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Tailored Experience: When you use the Foursquare Swarm app, we use the location information from your device to tailor your experience. This includes showing you a list of nearby locations, friends, and tips. Your location data is not shared with others unless you actively check-in or if a friend mentions you in check-in.
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Privacy Controls: Your location data is only shared with others when you decide to "check-in" to a particular place or if you have enabled 'check-in by friends' and your friend mentions you in a check-in. If you are checked in by a friend, you have the option to delete the check-in.
Conclusion:
At Foursquare, we take your privacy seriously. We only use your location information to enhance your experience on our platform and provide you with relevant suggestions. Your location data is kept secure and is shared with others only when you choose to do so. If you have any concerns or questions about privacy and security, please visit our Privacy Portal for more information.