Permissions & Privacy
UPC Scanner is designed with privacy as a core principle. This page explains what permissions the app requires, why they’re necessary, and what data UPC Scanner collects (spoiler: none).
Required Permissions
Camera Access
Why it’s required: Camera access is necessary to scan barcodes. Without it, UPC Scanner cannot function.
What UPC Scanner does with this permission:
- Captures barcode images for scanning
- Processes images locally to detect barcode data
- Discards images immediately after detection
What UPC Scanner does NOT do:
- Save photos to your device
- Access your camera roll or photo gallery
- Transmit images to remote servers
- Use your camera when the app is closed
Storage Access (Optional)
Why it’s required: Storage access is needed to export CSV files. This permission is only requested when you tap “Export.”
What UPC Scanner does with this permission:
- Writes CSV files to your chosen save location
What UPC Scanner does NOT do:
- Read files from your device
- Access personal data or documents
- Modify existing files
Data Collection
UPC Scanner collects zero data. The app does not:
- Track your usage
- Log analytics
- Send data to remote servers
- Store personally identifiable information
- Use third-party SDKs or trackers
- Display ads or embedded content
Your barcode lists, scan history, and device information never leave your phone.
Internet Access
UPC Scanner does not request internet access. The app operates entirely offline and has no network code.
This is verifiable by checking the app’s permissions in Android settings. You will not see “Network” or “Internet” listed.
Local Storage
UPC Scanner stores the following data locally on your device:
- Your current scan session (barcode numbers, timestamps, counts)
- App preferences (e.g., Inventory Mode setting)
This data is stored in Android’s internal storage and is inaccessible to other apps. It is automatically deleted if you uninstall UPC Scanner.
Important: Your scan session is temporary. If you close the app without exporting, your data will be lost. Always export your CSV before closing UPC Scanner.
No Product Lookup
UPC Scanner does not look up product names, prices, or descriptions. This is intentional.
By avoiding internet-based lookups, UPC Scanner:
- Works offline in any environment
- Protects your privacy (no server knows what you’re scanning)
- Operates faster and more reliably
Open Source & Verification
While UPC Scanner is not currently open source, its privacy claims can be verified using:
- Android permission inspector: Check installed permissions in Settings → Apps → UPC Scanner → Permissions
- Network monitoring tools: UPC Scanner generates zero network traffic
- Google Play’s Data Safety section: Our Play Store listing declares all data handling practices
Updates & Security
UPC Scanner is updated exclusively through the Google Play Store. Updates are reviewed by Google and signed with M Media’s developer certificate.
Never install UPC Scanner from third-party sources. Unofficial versions may contain malware or tracking code not present in the official release.
Questions About Privacy?
If you have questions about UPC Scanner’s privacy practices, contact us at support@mmediasoftwarelab.com.
