Over the past nine years, there have been frequent updates and changes in the Snapchat privacy policy. Almost everyone is well aware of how Snapchat lets you share your moments by sending live images and videos as many times as you want with a timer.
You’ll know right away if someone takes the screenshot. Incredible, right? But everything comes at a price. Have you ever wondered how well this giant app collects your data to run its business? This article shares important information about Snapchat data tracking that you have no idea about.
What information does Snapchat store in its database?
With around 248 million users and 7.8 billion messages sent daily, Snapchat never fails to keep users satisfied. They store a ton of information daily. In accordance with their privacy policy, all information you provide when registering is stored in their database, which includes:
- username
- Phone number
- Last name
- Birthday
- E-mail adress
In addition to this information, Snapchat knows you more than you can imagine. Surprisingly, aside from stories, Snapchat also stores all of your snapshots and private messages. If you want to send sensitive content, Snapchat is not the right medium for that.
Every detail is recorded, including who you sent, the snap itself, and the timing. If you haven’t disabled this option, it even keeps track of the location and updates it on the Snapchat story itself.
It’s not like Snapchat doesn’t let you know about all of this in the first place. The user accepts all of this by accepting the terms and conditions of the application.
Why does Snapchat collect your data?
Giant companies running apps like Snapchat claim they do not share personal and private information including names with advertisers. However, they can share the rest to create a profile based on your preferences and information.
The app collects and stores data to improve its marketing strategies, services and create a more personalized experience for users. As the privacy policy says, Snapchat has permission to collect your information from third parties, including the public, other Snapchat users, and business partners.
How long does Snapchat keep your data?
Snapchat, in accordance with its privacy policy, retains data for a short period of time. Snaps and chats will be automatically deleted from the database as soon as the recipient opens it or expires.
The articles of the story are stored for a longer period, however. Snapchat collects and stores card data for at least 40 days. However, if your location on the map is linked to a snapshot, which you can post to a story or save to memories, Snapchat will store it for as long as you have that snapshot.
How to prevent Snapchat from obtaining information from third party advertising partners?
To prevent Snapchat from collecting your information from third parties and showing you advertisements, follow the steps mentioned below.
- Open Snapchat and click on your Bitmoji icon in the top left corner.
- Now press the control dial in the upper right corner and scroll to the “Ads” option.
- In the Ads settings, click on “Ads Preferences” and uncheck all three boxes.
Likewise, you can also control the information shown in the advertisements displayed in Snapchat. To do this, open the ad settings, tap on “Lifestyle and interests” and uncheck all the boxes or whatever you want.
How can I remove my information from Snapchat?
If you don’t feel safe and have shared sensitive information through your account, the only way to remove it from the server is to delete your account. Unfortunately, this is the best way to stop sharing your data with third parties. However, if you are a Snapchat lover and therefore want to keep your account, limit the amount of data you share.
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