Verthome Privacy Policy

Last Updated : 31 Mar 2025

1. Introduction

Verthome is a home automation mobile application developed by a team of student developers. The app is designed to connect and control smart appliances within your home. Users can log in using their Google account, and the app leverages various permissions (WiFi, location, storage, and occasionally Bluetooth) to provide features such as appliance control, weather updates, and CCTV footage capture. This policy explains what data we collect, how we use it, and your rights regarding your personal information. 

2. Data Collection 

Verthome collects and processes only the essential data required for the app's core functionality, as outlined below:

• • Authentication Data : The Google account credentials, including the user’s email address, are collected for authentication and account management purposes.

  • Device and Usage Data :

    • Home Automation Data : Connected device identifiers (e.g., host IDs, family member IDs, and device IDs) are collected to enable interaction with integrated home appliances.

    • Device Interaction Data : Data related to the status and operation of smart devices is captured to facilitate home automation controls through the app.
      
      

• Permissions and Associated Data:

• • • Wi-Fi : The app requires access to Wi-Fi for establishing and maintaining communication with smart home appliances.

    • Location : The app requests access to the user's location (including background location access) to provide weather updates based on the user’s geographic location. This background location access is specifically used to fetch real-time weather data and ensure continuous updates without requiring manual user input.

    • Storage : The app stores CCTV footage locally on the user’s device for security monitoring purposes.

    • Bluetooth : Bluetooth access is utilized on an as-needed basis to communicate with specific smart devices that support Bluetooth functionality.

    • Browser Redirection : The application may occasionally redirect the user to an external web browser (such as Google Chrome) to facilitate additional functionality or content.

3. Data Usage 

The data collected by Verthome is strictly utilized for the following core functionalities:

• User Authentication : To authenticate users and ensure secure access via Google sign-in.

• Device Communication : To enable seamless communication with smart appliances through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (when necessary), ensuring efficient home automation operations.

• Location-Based Services : To provide real-time weather updates and other location-dependent services by accessing the user's geographical location in the background. This access enables the application to deliver relevant and accurate weather information based on the user's current location.

• CCTV Footage Storage : To capture, process, and store CCTV footage locally on the user’s device for security and surveillance purposes.

• Home Automation Control : To manage and control the status of integrated smart devices and execute mobile commands required for home automation functions.

• App Performance & Security : To enhance the overall performance, security, and user experience of the application.

No personal or device-related data is utilized for purposes beyond those outlined above, and Verthome does not exercise remote control over user devices.

4. Third-Party Services 

To deliver a seamless experience, Verthome integrates with several trusted third-party services :

• Firebase:

-> Used for authentication, cloud storage, analytics, and ensuring secure data management.

• Google Account Services:

-> Facilitates secure login and authentication.

• Default Web Browser:

-> The app may redirect users to their default browser (e.g., Google Chrome) for viewing external content.

Each of these third-party services has its own privacy policy that governs their data practices. We encourage you to review these policies for additional details.

5. User Rights 

You have the right to access, modify, or request deletion of your personal data. If you wish to request data deletion or have any concerns regarding your personal data, please submit your request through the email or click on the contact us button located at the bottom of the page.

6. Security 

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your data from unauthorised access, alteration, or disclosure. These include:

• Encryption of data both in transit and at rest.

• Secure authentication methods via Google sign-in.

• Regular security audits and updates via our Firebase back-end.

   While we strive to maintain the highest levels of security, please be aware that no system is entirely foolproof. You are encouraged to review our security practices and use the app in accordance with your personal security standards.

7. Permissions  

Our application, Verthome, requests certain permissions to ensure seamless functionality while prioritizing user privacy and security. The INTERNET and ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE permissions enable connectivity for real-time updates, while FOREGROUND_SERVICE ensures smooth background operations. WAKE_LOCK prevents the app from sleeping during critical tasks. We use POST_NOTIFICATIONS to send important alerts.

For location-based features, we require ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION and ACCESS_COARSE_LOCATION, which allow accurate tracking when necessary. Additionally, MANAGE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE is used for managing app-related files. The PERMISSION activity ensures users have control over granting or denying these requests.