Why Global Pulse Requests App Permissions
Global Pulse uses device permissions only to provide features you choose to use. You may deny or later change most permissions. Some features may be limited when a permission is disabled.
Location
Why We Ask
Location may be used to record where you checked in, add a last known location to an emergency alert, display emergency information for your location, and help a trusted contact understand where you may be.
Your Choices
Depending on your device, you may choose: do not allow, allow once, while using the app, during an active emergency, always allow (where available and necessary), approximate location, or precise location.
Notifications
Why We Ask
Notifications may be used for check-in reminders, missed check-in warnings, emergency-status updates, subscription expiration, trusted-contact invitations, and security notices.
What Happens if You Decline
You may miss important check-in prompts and status information. Email or SMS may still be available when separately enabled.
Contacts
Contact access may make it easier to select trusted contacts from your phone. You may allow contact access, deny it, or add trusted contacts manually.
Global Pulse should not upload your entire address book unless the feature clearly requires it and you are informed before collection.
Camera
The camera may be used to scan an optional QR code, add an optional profile image, or upload selected trip information. The camera is not required for emergency-alert use.
Photos and Files
Access may be used when you choose to upload a profile image, travel document, insurance card, or emergency instruction. Only the file you select should be uploaded when the operating system supports limited selection.
Microphone
The initial version of Global Pulse does not request microphone access unless a specific voice feature is introduced. When introduced, microphone use may support voice notes, voice commands, accessibility, or emergency translation. Global Pulse should not record audio without a clear user action and disclosure.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is requested only when a supported wearable or safety device is connected.
Background Activity
Global Pulse may require limited background activity to schedule notifications, retry pending alerts, update an active emergency workflow, and process subscription entitlement. Background operation may be restricted by your device.
SMS
Global Pulse does not require permission to read your private SMS history. Messages may be delivered through a secure messaging provider instead of reading or controlling your SMS application.
Telephone
Global Pulse may open your phone dialer with an emergency number. You remain responsible for confirming and placing the call unless the device clearly indicates otherwise.
Social Accounts
When you connect Facebook, Instagram, or another platform, Global Pulse may request permission to identify the connected account, prepare approved content, share content you authorize, and maintain the account connection. Available functions depend on the third-party platform.
Global Pulse does not receive your social-account password.
Biometrics
When enabled, Face ID, Touch ID, fingerprint, or similar device authentication may protect access to sensitive Global Pulse information. Biometric data is generally processed by your device rather than stored by ExpatPostal.
Permission Principles
Global Pulse should:
- Ask only when a feature needs the permission
- Explain why before requesting it
- Request the minimum practical access
- Avoid forcing optional permissions
- Allow you to change permissions later
- Avoid collecting unrelated information
Change Permissions
You may change permissions through Global Pulse → Settings → Privacy and Permissions, or through your phone’s system settings.