The policy states that contact book data shared with Snapchat is retained until the user explicitly removes it through in-app settings, and that updating device-level permissions alone does not delete previously shared contacts. The policy also states that contact data uploaded by other Snapchatters that includes a user's information may be combined with other data Snap holds about that user.
This analysis describes what Snapchat's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This provision establishes that contact data has a distinct retention mechanism that is decoupled from device-level permission changes, meaning users who revoke contact book permissions at the OS level may not achieve deletion of previously shared contact data without an additional in-app action. The secondary combination of third-party-uploaded contact data with existing user profiles is also authorized, which may affect non-Snapchat users whose information is included in uploaded contact lists.
Under this clause, contact book data previously shared with Snapchat persists until explicitly removed through Snapchat's in-app settings, not through device permission revocation alone. Additionally, contact information uploaded by other users that includes a person's data may be combined with Snap's existing profile data for that individual, including for non-Snapchat users.
Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle Contact Book Data Collection and Retention and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →"if another Snapchatter uploads their contact list which includes your information, we may combine that with other information we have about you to better understand who you may want to communicate with. ... we keep your shared list of contacts until you ask us to remove them in our app settings (note: updating your device permissions may not remove the contacts you've previously shared with Snapchat).Excerpt from Snapchat's Privacy Policy
1) REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: The collection and processing of contact data from non-users whose information is uploaded by third-party Snapchatters implicates GDPR requirements regarding processing of personal data without a direct relationship with the data subject, …
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This provision establishes that contact data has a distinct retention mechanism that is decoupled from device-level permission changes, meaning users who revoke contact book permissions at the OS level may not achieve deletion of previously shared contact data without an additional in-app action. The secondary combination of third-party-uploaded contact data with existing user profiles is also authorized, which may affect …
Under this clause, contact book data previously shared with Snapchat persists until explicitly removed through Snapchat's in-app settings, not through device permission revocation alone. Additionally, contact information uploaded by other users that includes a person's data may be combined with Snap's existing profile data for that individual, including for non-Snapchat users.
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