Privacy Policy
Last updated: August 10, 2026
This Privacy Policy explains how the MusselShield mobile application ("the app") collects, uses, and protects information. The app is operated by Vigilante Consulting on behalf of Bennett West LLC ("we," "us") as part of a Golden Mussel copper-treatment monitoring program. The app is provided to authorized field operators; it is not intended for the general public.
Information we collect
The app collects only the data needed to record field monitoring readings:
- Monitoring data you enter — copper chemistry (residual copper, pH, temperature, flow), veliger counts and plate condition, qPCR results, laboratory sample identifiers, water-quality values (conductivity, hardness, turbidity), treatment details, and free-text notes.
- Photos — plate, meter, and site photos you capture during a reading. These images may contain embedded location metadata.
- Location — GPS coordinates (latitude, longitude, and accuracy) captured only at the moment you record a reading, to geo-stamp the field station. The app does not track your location in the background.
- Operator and device identifiers — an operator identifier and a device identifier, together with timestamps, used to attribute each reading.
Information we do NOT collect
- We do not require names, email addresses, or contact details from end users; the app signs in anonymously and no personal account is created.
- We do not use advertising identifiers, and we do not run third-party advertising or analytics tracking in the app.
- We do not sell your data.
How we use the information
Collected data is used solely to operate the copper-treatment monitoring program — recording, syncing, reviewing, and reporting on field readings. It is not used for advertising or profiling.
How data is stored and shared
Readings and photos are stored on your device and synced over an encrypted (HTTPS) connection to a secure database and file storage hosted on Supabase (a third-party cloud data platform acting as our processor). Access is limited to authorized program personnel. We do not share the data with any other third parties except as required to operate the program or comply with law.
Data security
Data is transmitted over encrypted connections and stored with access controls. No method of transmission or storage is completely secure, but we take reasonable measures to protect the data.
Data retention
Data is retained for the duration of the monitoring program and for as long as needed for program records and legal or regulatory requirements.
Children
The app is a professional field tool and is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect information from children.
Your choices
Location and camera access are requested only when needed and can be managed in your device settings. Because the app is used to record official program data, disabling these permissions may prevent it from functioning as intended.
Contact
For questions about this policy or the data collected, contact m@vigilanteconsulting.com.