Privacy Policy

The short version

HamLike needs some information to run: things like your account, email, and what you post. That data is used to operate the site — not to sell to data brokers. We use analytics (Google Analytics 4 in the browser and first‑party page metrics on our servers) to understand traffic and improve the product; details are under Analytics and measurement below. I don’t run ads today. If that changes later, I’ll update this page and do my best to let you know when something meaningful changes in how your data is used.

What we collect

• Account details — username (typically your callsign), email address, password (stored hashed; I can’t read your password).
• Profile information — anything you choose to add publicly or in your profile (display name, bio, photos, interests, etc.).
• Content you submit — posts, comments, votes, club activity, and similar contributions visible according to how the site works.
• Email & notifications — if you turn them on, we use your address for verification, password reset, optional activity emails, and rare operational messages.
• Technical data — standard server logs (e.g. IP address, rough timestamps, errors) needed for security, abuse prevention, and keeping the service running. Not used for advertising today.
• Analytics — see Analytics and measurement for Google Analytics 4 and first‑party usage logs.

Why we collect it

To create accounts, verify licenses where applicable, show your profile and posts to others, send optional notifications you asked for, protect the community from spam and abuse, and fix things when they break.

How it’s used

Data is used to run HamLike — hosting and displaying content, authentication, moderation, and communication you’ve opted into. I do not sell your personal information to third parties.

Like any website, I rely on a hosting provider and possibly email (SMTP) services; they process data only as needed to deliver the service. I don’t sell user lists.

Analytics and measurement

HamLike uses analytics in two ways. Together they help measure traffic, fix problems, and see which areas of the site (including tools like CQ Desk) people use. Neither is used to sell your personal information.

• Google Analytics 4 (GA4) — When a measurement ID is configured, pages load Google’s gtag.js on normal site pages (feed, profiles, CQ Desk, settings, etc.). We do not send Google Analytics a User‑ID or other HamLike account identifier; GA4 may still use cookies and similar technology under Google’s rules. See Google Privacy & Terms and, if you use Google products, their help on opting out or managing ads data.
• First‑party usage logs (Admin Insights) — The site records simple events in our own database when pages are viewed (which screen template, URL path, time, and whether the viewer was logged in). Operators review these only inside the Admin → Insights area to run the service (traffic trends, popular screens, QRZ badge embed usage). This is separate from Google and is not sold.

Ads and future monetization

HamLike doesn’t show third-party ads right now. Hosting costs real money, so in the future I might introduce light advertising, paid features, or similar to help cover costs. If that changes how data is collected or shared in a meaningful way, I’ll update this policy and try to give reasonable notice (for example via the site or email for registered users).

Email

Your email may be used for account security (verification, password reset), optional notification preferences you control in settings, and important service messages if something critical affects your account or the site.

Retention & deletion

Content and account data are kept while your account is active and as needed for backups, legal requirements, or abuse investigations. If you need help removing your account or have privacy questions, use the contact method below.

Children

HamLike is intended for people who can lawfully use amateur radio services in their jurisdiction. It isn’t directed at young children.

Changes to this policy

This page may be updated as the site evolves. The “last updated” note at the top will change when it does. Continued use of HamLike after updates means you’re aware of the revised policy.

Terms of use

Rules for using the site (content, moderation, disclaimers) are in the Terms of Service.

Contact

Questions about privacy or your data? Reach out through the Contact page — I read those messages directly.