Privacy policy

Last updated: June 10, 2026

1. Introduction

FWRD ("we," "our," "us," or "the App") is a digital wellness application developed to help users reduce phone addiction and reclaim focus by blocking distracting applications. This Privacy Policy describes how FWRD handles your information when you download, install, and use our app. By using FWRD, you agree to the practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

Information You Provide

  • Your mobile phone number, when you choose to log in or create an account using phone verification
  • Account preferences and app blocking configurations you set within the app
  • Wellness check-in responses (mood, focus, and screen time self-assessments)
  • Notification preferences

Information Collected Automatically

  • Device type and iOS version (for compatibility purposes, stored locally only)
  • App session data such as when the app is opened or closed (stored locally only)
  • Wellness scores generated from your daily check-ins (stored locally only)

Information We Do NOT Collect

  • We do not collect your name, email address, or other personally identifiable information unless you voluntarily provide it
  • We do not collect or transmit Screen Time data, app usage data, or Family Controls data to any external server
  • We do not access your contacts, camera, microphone, location, or photos
  • We do not collect payment information within the app

3. Apple Screen Time API & Family Controls

FWRD uses Apple's Family Controls framework and Screen Time API to enable app blocking features. Specifically:

  • We use FamilyControls to request user authorization to manage app and website activity
  • We use ManagedSettings to apply app restrictions as configured by the user
  • We use DeviceActivity to schedule and manage blocking sessions

All data processed through these APIs remains entirely on your device. No Screen Time data, app selection data, or restriction configurations are transmitted to FWRD servers or any third party. Apple's Screen Time API requires explicit user authorization before any restrictions are applied, and you may revoke this authorization at any time through your device's Screen Time settings.

4. How We Use Your Information

We use the information described above solely to:

  • Provide and improve the core app-blocking and wellness features of FWRD
  • Verify your identity and authenticate your account via a one-time passcode (OTP) sent by text message
  • Generate your local wellness score based on your check-in responses
  • Send you local push notifications related to your blocking sessions or wellness reminders (if enabled)
  • Diagnose crashes and technical issues to improve app stability

5. SMS / Text Messaging

When you choose to log in or sign up using phone verification, you provide your mobile phone number and we send you a one-time verification code (OTP) by SMS to confirm your identity. By entering your phone number and continuing, you consent to receive this verification text message.

  • These are transactional verification messages only. We do not send marketing or promotional text messages.
  • Message frequency is limited to the verification codes you request. Message and data rates may apply.
  • You can reply STOP to opt out of further messages and HELP for assistance.
  • We do not share, sell, or rent your phone number or mobile opt-in information to third parties for their own marketing purposes. Phone numbers are used only to deliver verification codes through our messaging provider.

6. Data Storage & Security

App wellness and configuration data is stored locally on your device using Apple's secure on-device storage. Your phone number, when provided for verification, is processed to deliver your one-time passcode and is handled in accordance with this policy. Where cloud sync is used in future versions (e.g., iCloud), it will be governed by Apple's iCloud privacy practices, and you will be notified of any such changes before they take effect.

We implement industry-standard security practices within the app, including following Apple's App Transport Security (ATS) guidelines for any network requests.

7. Data Sharing & Third Parties

We do not sell, rent, trade, or otherwise share your personal information with third parties for their marketing purposes. FWRD does not integrate any third-party advertising SDKs, analytics platforms, or data brokers.

We may share information only in the following limited circumstances:

  • Service providers: With trusted vendors who perform services on our behalf, such as our SMS provider used to deliver one-time verification codes. These providers may only use the information to perform that service.
  • Legal compliance: If required by law, subpoena, or other legal process
  • Safety: To protect the rights, property, or safety of FWRD, our users, or the public

No mobile information (including your phone number) is shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

8. Children's Privacy

FWRD is not directed at children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child under 13 has provided us with personal information, please contact us and we will promptly delete it.

9. Your Rights & Choices

You have full control over your data:

  • Access & Deletion: App data stored locally on your device can be deleted at any time by uninstalling the app. To request deletion of a phone number associated with verification, contact us at the email below.
  • SMS Opt-Out: You may opt out of verification messages by replying STOP, or by not using phone-based login.
  • Screen Time Authorization: You may revoke FWRD's Screen Time permissions at any time via Settings → Screen Time on your device
  • Notifications: You may disable push notifications at any time via Settings → Notifications → FWRD

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will update the "Last updated" date at the top of this page. We encourage you to review this policy periodically. Continued use of FWRD after any changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us:

FWRD Email: info@unit203.com