Privacy Policy - BLink SG

1. Introduction

At BLink SG, we take your privacy seriously. We are dedicated to ensuring that your personal information is fully safeguarded while using our app. This Privacy Policy aims to outline, in a detailed manner, how BLink SG collects, processes, stores, and uses your data during your interactions with the app. Please read this document carefully, as it explains your rights and our obligations regarding your data.

BLink SG is a solo-developed app created by a single developer who takes full responsibility for its design, functionality, and operation. The transportation data provided within BLink SG comes from two main sources: publicly available information from Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) and self-collected data gathered directly by the app creator. Importantly, BLink SG is designed to minimise personal data collection and avoids unnecessary or irrelevant data gathering to protect user privacy.

2. Data We Collect

BLink SG strives to collect the bare minimum of data required for the app’s functionality and user experience. No personally identifiable information (PII) is collected unless explicitly required for a particular service. Below, we explain each type of data we collect in greater detail:

a. Anonymous Authentication

BLink SG uses Firebase Authentication in anonymous mode. This authentication system ensures that no personal information—such as your name, email address, or phone number—is required to use the app. The sole purpose of Firebase Authentication is to establish a secure and anonymous session for each user without compromising their privacy. You are not required to provide any identifiable data during this process, and the authentication is linked only to a randomly generated identifier that cannot be traced back to you.

b. Data from Public Sources (SG LTA)

The majority of the transportation data within BLink SG comes directly from the Singapore Land Transport Authority (LTA) through its publicly available APIs. This includes:

Real-time bus arrival information, including the next several buses arriving at a given bus stop.
Bus routes, including operational schedules, stops, and connections between routes.
Bus stops, including bus stop location and details for the stop.
MRT/LRT service statuses, including real-time updates on disruptions, delays, and station/platform conditions.
Taxi stand locations, including real-time availability of taxis near certain locations.
Parking availability, including details on parking spaces in selected public parking areas.

This data is purely for informational purposes and is not connected to any specific user or personal information. The LTA data is dynamically retrieved and displayed for your convenience but remains unaffiliated with any individual user profiles or preferences.

c. Self-Collected Data

Certain app features are built on self-collected data that has been manually gathered by the developer of BLink SG. This data includes:

MRT station locations, including geographic details and connections between MRT stations.
Station facilities, such as nearby amenities, station exits, and their associated facilities.
Exit information for MRT stations, specifying how each exit connects to surrounding areas, roads, and amenities.
Fare calculator, which provides an estimate of fare prices for MRT and bus trips. These estimates are based on public fare structures but may not always reflect real-time fare adjustments or ticketing rules.
First and last train schedules, including the daily schedules for MRT lines and the final train timings at each station.
MRT route planner, which suggests optimal routes based on the app’s own dataset, including transfer points and expected travel times.

As this data is manually collected, there may be occasional discrepancies or inaccuracies compared to real-time data provided by official sources. Users are advised to use this information for reference purposes only and consult official channels when needed.

d. Location Data

To deliver certain app features—such as the Dynamic Island real-time bus arrival feature—BLink SG may request access to your device’s location services. This allows the app to provide localized transportation information, including nearby bus stops and real-time bus arrival updates.

Importantly:

Your location data is only used locally within the app and is not uploaded to any external server, third-party system, or cloud service.
You maintain full control over your location data. You can enable or disable location services at any time, with the understanding that disabling these services may limit the functionality of features reliant on location data (e.g., real-time updates).

e. Firebase Data (Non-Personal Information)

Certain non-personal data, such as train disruption alerts or MRT platform crowdedness levels, may be uploaded to Firebase. This data is collected solely to improve the functionality of the app and the overall commuter experience. It is important to emphasise that all data uploaded to Firebase is fully anonymised. There is no way to link this data back to any specific user, and it is used exclusively for statistical purposes and service enhancement.

3. How We Use Your Data

BLink SG is designed to operate with minimal data collection, ensuring that any collected data serves only to enhance the app's functionality and user experience. The following outlines how your data is used:

a. Transportation Information

The real-time data retrieved from LTA APIs allows BLink SG to provide users with accurate, up-to-date transportation information. This data includes bus arrivals, MRT/LRT statuses, taxi availability, and parking spaces. Importantly, this data is processed in real time, and no user-specific information is stored alongside this data. It is used solely to offer a better user experience by providing transportation updates for informational purposes.

b. Custom Features and Self-Collected Data

The self-collected data (such as the fare calculator, MRT station exit information, and the route planner) is used to offer unique, user-friendly features designed to improve your commute. These features, while accurate to the best of our knowledge, may not always reflect real-time changes or official updates. Therefore, we advise users to rely on this information for general reference and consult official channels when making time-sensitive decisions.

c. Notifications

BLink SG uses Firebase Notifications to send transportation-related updates to users. These notifications are opt-in—meaning that users must explicitly choose which notifications they wish to receive (e.g., train disruptions, bus arrival alerts). Your preferences are stored locally on your device and are never uploaded to any external server.

You can customise or disable notifications at any time through the app’s settings menu, giving you full control over which alerts you receive.

4. Data Sharing and Third-Party Services

BLink SG values your privacy and does not share or sell your personal information to any third-party service providers. The app’s interaction with third-party services is limited to LTA APIs and Firebase, and both are strictly controlled in the following ways:

a. LTA Public Data

All data provided by the LTA APIs, including bus and train information, is public and solely used to deliver the app’s core functionality. BLink SG does not modify, redistribute, or share this data with any third party other than what is necessary to deliver transportation updates.

b. Firebase

Firebase is used for anonymous authentication and for pushing notifications. As described earlier, no personal data is uploaded to Firebase, and any data that is uploaded (e.g., train disruptions, MRT crowdedness) is fully anonymised. This ensures that even non-personal data is handled with care, with no risk of identifying users.

c. Self-Collected Data

The self-collected data (such as station exits, MRT facilities, fare calculator information) is not shared with any third parties and remains solely within the app environment. This data is stored locally and used only to improve your user experience.

5. Location Data and Usage

BLink SG may request access to your device’s location services if you choose to enable location-based features (e.g., Dynamic Island real-time updates). Here’s how we handle your location data:

a. Temporary and Local Use

Your location data is used temporarily and exclusively within the app to provide localised transportation updates. For example, the app may show nearby bus stops and calculate arrival times based on your location. This data is never uploaded, stored, or shared with external servers.

b. Opting In/Out

You have full control over whether to enable location services. You can choose to enable or disable location access at any time through your device settings. While disabling location services may limit some app features, such as bus arrival estimates, it will not prevent the overall use of the app.

6. Data Security

BLink SG takes a proactive approach to data security. We implement several layers of security to ensure that your data, even non-personal information, is fully protected.

a. Encryption

All data transmitted between your device and the app’s backend services (e.g., Firebase) is encrypted using secure communication protocols. This ensures that unauthorised third parties cannot intercept or access any data while it is being transmitted.

b. Local Storage

Most user preferences (such as saved bus stops, notification settings, and location services) are stored locally on your device. This reduces the risk of data breaches, as none of this information is uploaded to our servers or third-party cloud services.

c. Anonymization of Firebase Data

Any data uploaded to Firebase (e.g., train disruptions or platform crowdedness) is fully anonymised to ensure that it cannot be linked to any user. Even non-personal data is treated with care, and we maintain strict standards for data anonymization to protect user privacy.

d. Self-Collected Data Storage

The self-collected data (e.g., MRT station locations, exit information, and facilities) is stored securely within the app environment and is not subject to third-party access. This ensures that the data remains private and is used solely for improving user experience.

7. Children’s Privacy

BLink SG is committed to ensuring that our app is safe for all users, including children. We do not knowingly collect or store any data from users under the age of 13. Since BLink SG does not require personal data for its core functionality, parents can rest assured that there is no risk of children’s privacy being compromised.

8. User Rights and Privacy Choices

At BLink SG, we believe in giving you full control over how the app interacts with your data. You have several key rights when using the app:

a. Opt-In/Opt-Out

You can choose which notifications to receive, and you have full control over whether to share your location for real-time transportation updates. You can update or modify these preferences at any time through the app’s settings.

b. No Data Collection

Since BLink SG does not collect personal data, you do not need to manage any personal information. If you wish to remove your preferences, you can do so by uninstalling the app, which will delete all locally stored data.

9. Changes to the Privacy Policy

BLink SG reserves the right to modify or update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, or the app’s functionality. If any significant changes are made regarding how we collect, store, or use data, users will be promptly notified through app updates or notifications.

10. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback related to this Privacy Policy, please contact us at blinksgsupport@example.com. We value your input and are committed to ensuring your privacy and satisfaction.

Terms and Conditions for BLink SG

1. Introduction

Welcome to BLink SG, a transportation-focused mobile app designed to provide commuters in Singapore with real-time updates on bus arrivals, train statuses, disruptions, and more. These Terms and Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BLink SG. By downloading, installing, or using BLink SG, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you must discontinue use of the app immediately.

BLink SG’s primary purpose is to provide timely, reliable, and useful transportation data to assist you in your daily commute. While we strive to offer a smooth and accurate experience, there are certain limitations and responsibilities that users must acknowledge. These Terms aim to clarify the mutual responsibilities between the app provider (BLink SG) and the user.

2. Service Overview

BLink SG offers several key features that rely on real-time data provided by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA). These features include, but are not limited to, the following:

Bus Arrival Information: BLink SG provides real-time updates on bus arrivals, including the next several arrivals at each bus stop. This data is sourced directly from LTA and is intended for reference purposes. Please note that bus arrival times may fluctuate due to factors beyond our control, such as traffic conditions, road closures, or unforeseen disruptions.
MRT/LRT Train Statuses and Disruptions: The app provides live updates on the status of MRT and LRT lines, including service disruptions, delays, and platform crowding levels. This information is crucial for planning your journeys, especially during peak hours or unexpected delays.
Taxi Availability: The app includes real-time updates on the availability of taxis and taxi stands in Singapore. This feature allows users to locate nearby taxis based on LTA data.
Parking Information: BLink SG also includes parking-related data, such as available parking spaces in certain public areas. This information is sourced from LTA and may not always reflect the most up-to-date availability due to rapid changes.
Self-Collected Data: BLink SG also provides certain features based on self-collected data, which has been manually gathered by the developer. This includes:
- Fare calculator: Estimated fares for MRT and bus trips, based on known fare structures. These estimates are provided as a guide and may not always align with official fare amounts.
- MRT station exit information: Details about MRT station exits and their connections to local amenities or locations.
- First and Last Train Information: Schedules for first and last train departures on MRT lines.
- Route Planner: Suggested routes based on manually gathered data, with estimated travel times and transfers between MRT stations.

3. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using BLink SG, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree to any of these terms, you are prohibited from using the app.

Modifications to Terms: BLink SG reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. Any updates to the Terms will be reflected within the app or communicated through app updates. Users are responsible for reviewing the updated Terms, and continued use of the app constitutes acceptance of the changes.
Termination of Services: We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to BLink SG without prior notice if you violate these Terms or engage in any behavior that disrupts the functionality or user experience of the app.

4. User Responsibilities

As a user of BLink SG, you are expected to use the app in a lawful, responsible, and ethical manner. Here’s what we expect from you:

Lawful Use: You agree to use BLink SG in accordance with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations. This includes not using the app to engage in any illegal activities, such as hacking, exploiting vulnerabilities, or interfering with the app’s services.
Responsible Usage: The data provided by BLink SG is for personal use only. You agree not to misuse the app’s features, including but not limited to scraping data, accessing unauthorized areas, or using the app to harm others.
Accuracy of Data: While BLink SG provides real-time data, users are responsible for verifying the information provided through the app, especially in time-sensitive situations such as catching a bus or train. You acknowledge that factors such as weather, traffic, and technical issues may affect the accuracy of the data.

5. Data Accuracy and Limitations

BLink SG relies on public data provided by LTA to offer accurate transportation information. While we make every effort to ensure the data is up-to-date, there are inherent limitations:

Bus Arrivals: Bus arrival times displayed in BLink SG are based on LTA’s real-time data. However, there may be unexpected delays or changes in service. Users should always plan for contingencies in case of late arrivals.
Train Disruptions: MRT and LRT service disruption alerts are updated as soon as LTA provides them. However, the timing of updates may vary depending on LTA’s reporting. You should always check additional sources, such as station announcements, when available.
Taxi and Parking Availability: Taxi availability and parking data may not always be updated in real-time. Factors such as quick turnovers in parking spots or high demand for taxis during peak hours may affect the accuracy of the information.

6. Location-Based Features

BLink SG includes location-based features, such as real-time updates on nearby bus arrivals and the Dynamic Island feature. By enabling location services, you agree to the following:

Consent to Use Location Data: Your location data is used temporarily to provide the most relevant transportation information based on your proximity to specific bus stops or taxi stands. However, your location data is processed locally on your device and is not uploaded to our servers or shared with any third parties.
Accuracy of Location Services: The accuracy of location services may be affected by factors such as poor GPS signal, network coverage, or interference. BLink SG is not responsible for any inaccuracies resulting from these factors.

7. Firebase Authentication

BLink SG uses Firebase Authentication to enable users to access the app anonymously. No personal data, such as names, email addresses, or phone numbers, is collected. Here’s what you should know:

Anonymous Authentication: You do not need to provide any personally identifiable information (PII) to use the app. Firebase’s anonymous authentication ensures that you can access BLink SG securely without revealing your identity.
No Personal Data Collected: BLink SG does not collect any personal information through Firebase Authentication. The authentication process is designed to be secure, ensuring that your data and privacy are protected.

8. Notifications

BLink SG offers push notifications for bus arrivals, train disruptions, and other transportation-related updates. Users can customize their notification preferences within the app. Here’s what you should know:

Opting Into Notifications: Upon installing the app, you will be asked whether you would like to enable push notifications. You can choose which types of notifications to receive, such as specific MRT line alerts or bus stop updates.
Disabling Notifications: You can opt out of receiving notifications at any time by adjusting your app settings. Once disabled, BLink SG will no longer send any alerts to your device.

9. Limitation of Liability

BLink SG is provided “as-is” and without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied. By using the app, you agree that BLink SG and its developers will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or inconveniences resulting from your use of the app or reliance on its data.

No Warranty for Accuracy: BLink SG cannot guarantee the accuracy of bus arrival times, train statuses, or taxi availability due to external factors that may affect transportation services. Users are encouraged to use the app as a reference tool and verify critical information through official channels when needed.
Limitation of Liability: BLink SG will not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from the use of the app. This includes, but is not limited to, missed buses, train delays, or disruptions that were not accurately reported.

10. In-App Purchases – Support the Developer
BLink SG offers optional one-time in-app purchases as a way for users to show appreciation and support the solo developer. These are purely voluntary and help ensure the continued development and maintenance of the app.

a. Tip Jar Donations
Users may choose from several donation tiers that represent symbolic gestures of support. These in-app purchases are one-time and non-consumable, and do not affect core app functionality. Every contribution, no matter the amount, is appreciated and helps keep BLink SG independent and free of ads.
b. Special App Icon Reward
As a token of appreciation, users who make any tip donation will unlock a special alternate app icon that can be enabled from the app’s settings. This icon is available exclusively to supporters and serves as a small thank-you for your generosity.
c. No Impact on Features
All features in BLink SG remain fully accessible without donation. The special icon is a cosmetic bonus and does not affect app performance, content, or functionality.
d. Secure and Private
All payments are processed securely through Apple’s in-app purchase system. No personal information is collected, and BLink SG uses Firebase anonymous authentication to manage access to the special icon without linking any data back to your identity.
e. Non-Refundable
In accordance with Apple’s App Store policies, all in-app purchases are final and non-refundable.
f. Thank You
Your support helps an independent developer continue building and improving BLink SG. Thank you for riding along and making this journey possible.

11. User-Indemnification

By using BLink SG, you agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless BLink SG, its affiliates, developers, and third-party service providers from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses arising out of your use of the app, your violation of these Terms, or any unlawful activity conducted through the app.

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Singapore. Any disputes arising from your use of BLink SG will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Singapore. By using the app, you consent to this jurisdiction and venue.

13. Changes to the Terms

BLink SG reserves the right to modify or update these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any significant changes will be communicated to users via app updates or notifications. Continued use of the app following such changes will be considered acceptance of the updated Terms.

14. Contact Us

For any questions or concerns regarding these Terms and Conditions, or if you require support related to the app, please contact us at app.blinksg@gmail.com. Our team is committed to ensuring a smooth and satisfactory experience for all users.

Last Updated: Mar 29, 2025