Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 1 March 2026

1. Introduction

PuzzleBam Ltd ("we", "us", or "our") operates the NERD WORDS mobile application (the "App"). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our App.

By using NERD WORDS, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy. If you do not agree with this policy, please do not use the App.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Account Information

When you sign in to NERD WORDS using Sign in with Apple or Google Sign-In, we collect your email address and display name. You can also set a custom display name and upload a profile photo within the app. Profile photos are moderated using automated image analysis to ensure they are appropriate.

2.2 Gameplay Data

We collect gameplay statistics to provide leaderboards, track your progress, and improve the game experience. This includes:

• High scores and game results
• Win/loss records and win streaks
• Best words played and scores achieved
• Average points per game
• Average move time
• Total games played

2.3 Device Information

We automatically collect certain device information through Firebase Analytics, including:

• Device model and operating system version
• App version
• Language and locale settings
• General location (country level, derived from IP address)

2.4 Advertising Information

We use Google AdMob to display advertisements. AdMob may collect device advertising identifiers (IDFA on iOS, GAID on Android) to serve relevant ads. On iOS, you will be asked for permission before any tracking occurs, in accordance with Apple's App Tracking Transparency requirements.

2.5 Information We Do Not Collect

We do not collect:

• Your real name (unless you choose to use it as your display name)
• Precise GPS location
• Contacts or address book

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide and maintain the game service
• Enable multiplayer functionality and matchmaking
• Display leaderboards and player statistics
• Process in-app purchases
• Display advertisements (unless you purchase Remove Ads)
• Analyse usage patterns to improve the game
• Detect and prevent cheating or abuse
• Respond to support requests

4. How We Share Your Information

We share your information with the following third parties:

• Firebase (Google) – for data storage, analytics, and crash reporting
• Google AdMob – for displaying advertisements
• Apple Game Center / Google Play Games – for authentication and leaderboards
• Apple App Store / Google Play Store – for processing in-app purchases

We do not sell your personal information to third parties.

5. Data Retention

We retain your information for the following periods:

• Account and gameplay statistics: Until you delete your account, or 24 months after last activity
• Completed game records: 6 months after game completion
• Analytics data: 14 months
• Crash reports: 90 days
• User reports: 12 months

If you uninstall the App without deleting your account, your data remains stored and will be available if you reinstall.

6. Your Rights

6.1 Right to Access

You can download a copy of your data at any time through the App's Settings menu. Your data will be provided in a machine-readable format (JSON).

6.2 Right to Deletion

You can delete your account and all associated data at any time through the App's Settings menu. Deletion is immediate and permanent. Any active games will be forfeited.

6.3 Right to Opt-Out of Tracking

On iOS, you can deny the App Tracking Transparency prompt to opt out of personalised advertising. You will still see ads, but they will be less targeted. You can also purchase Remove Ads to eliminate all advertisements.

7. Children's Privacy

NERD WORDS is intended for users aged 13 and older. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us at support@playnerdwords.com and we will delete such information.

8. International Users

NERD WORDS is operated from the United Kingdom. If you are accessing the App from outside the UK, please be aware that your information may be transferred to, stored, and processed in the UK and other countries where our service providers operate. By using the App, you consent to this transfer.

NERD WORDS is not available in China, Russia, or countries subject to international sanctions (including Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Syria, and Crimea).

9. Security

We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy within the App and updating the "Effective Date" at the top.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us at:

PuzzleBam Ltd

Email: privacy@puzzlebam.com

Website: https://playnerdwords.com

12. Additional Information for UK/EU Users

If you are located in the United Kingdom or European Union, you have additional rights under the UK GDPR and EU GDPR, including the right to lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority. In the UK, this is the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). Our ICO registration number is C1903124.

The legal basis for processing your data is: (a) performance of a contract (to provide the game service), (b) legitimate interests (to improve our services and prevent abuse), and (c) consent (for personalised advertising, where applicable).