Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing or using TownChat, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our service.

2. Description of Service

TownChat is a GPS-powered local messaging platform that allows users to share posts, messages, and connect with others in their geographic area. Posts are visible based on location and may expire over time based on community engagement.

3. User Accounts

• You must be at least 13 years old to use TownChat
• You must provide accurate information when creating an account
• You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account
• You may not share your account or use another person's account
• One account per person is allowed

4. User Conduct

You agree NOT to:

• Post illegal, harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, or defamatory content
• Share sexually explicit or pornographic material
• Engage in hate speech or discrimination
• Impersonate others or misrepresent your identity
• Spam, advertise, or solicit without permission
• Share personal information of others without consent
• Attempt to hack, exploit, or disrupt the service
• Use bots or automated tools to access the service
• Circumvent any security measures or restrictions
• Violate any applicable laws or regulations

5. Content Ownership

You retain ownership of content you post on TownChat. By posting content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute your content on our platform.

You are solely responsible for the content you post and any consequences that may arise from it.

6. Location Services

TownChat requires access to your location to function. By using our service, you consent to the collection and use of your location data as described in our Privacy Policy. You may choose to hide your exact location (default) or share it precisely on individual posts.

7. Post Expiration

Posts on TownChat may expire based on engagement (upvotes and downvotes). This is a core feature of the platform designed to keep content fresh and relevant. We are not responsible for the removal of expired content.

8. Moderation and Enforcement

We reserve the right to:

• Remove any content that violates these terms
• Suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms
• Report illegal activity to law enforcement
• Take any action we deem necessary to protect our users and service

9. Disclaimer of Warranties

TownChat is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind. We do not guarantee that the service will be uninterrupted, secure, or error-free. We are not responsible for the accuracy, reliability, or quality of user-generated content.

10. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, TownChat and its operators shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the service.

11. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless TownChat and its operators from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your use of the service or violation of these terms.

12. Changes to Terms

We may modify these terms at any time. Continued use of the service after changes constitutes acceptance of the new terms. We will make reasonable efforts to notify users of significant changes.

13. Governing Law

These terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United States, without regard to conflict of law principles.

14. Contact

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us at legal@townchat.net