How can I find data permissions on the Strava mobile app?

On the Strava mobile app, navigate to your profile ("You" icon), then tap the gear icon (Settings) and select "Privacy Controls" or "Applications, Services, and Devices."

Where are data permissions located on the Strava website?

On the Strava website, log in, hover over your profile picture, click "Settings," and then choose "Privacy Controls" or "My Apps" from the left-hand sidebar.

What types of data can I control visibility for on Strava?

You can control the visibility of your activities (Everyone, Followers, Only You), profile page, Flybys, group activities, and define Privacy Zones to hide sensitive locations.

How do I manage third-party app access to my Strava data?

Third-party app access is managed in the "Connected Services" section (often "My Apps" or "Applications, Services, and Devices"), where you can review and revoke permissions.

Can I opt out of sharing my data for Strava's Heatmaps?

Yes, you can opt-out of contributing your de-identified data to features like Strava Metro and the Global Heatmap within your privacy settings.

Where is data permissions on Strava?

Managing your data permissions on Strava is primarily done through the Settings menu, accessible on both the mobile application and the Strava website, under sections typically labeled "Privacy Controls," "Connected Apps," or "Data Permissions."

Understanding Strava Data Permissions

In the landscape of digital fitness tracking, understanding and managing your data permissions is paramount. Strava, as a leading platform for athletes, collects a wealth of information—from GPS routes and performance metrics to personal details and social interactions. These data points, while invaluable for personal analysis and community engagement, also carry privacy implications. Data permissions dictate who can see your activities, what information third-party applications can access, and how Strava uses your aggregated data for features like Heatmaps or Metro. Taking control of these settings ensures your privacy aligns with your comfort level and personal preferences.

Locating Your Data Permissions on Strava

Accessing your data permission settings is a straightforward process, whether you're using the Strava mobile app or the website.

On the Strava Mobile App:

Open the Strava App: Launch the Strava application on your smartphone.
Navigate to You: Tap the "You" icon in the bottom right corner (your profile page).
Access Settings: Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in the top right corner of your profile screen.
Select "Privacy Controls" or "Applications, Services, and Devices": Within the Settings menu, you'll find various sections.
- Privacy Controls: This is where you manage who can see your activities, profile information, and other personal data.
- Applications, Services, and Devices: This section allows you to manage third-party apps and devices connected to your Strava account, controlling their access to your data.
Review and Adjust: Explore the options within these sections to customize your data permissions.

On the Strava Website:

Log In to Strava: Open your web browser and go to strava.com, then log in to your account.
Hover Over Your Profile Picture: In the top right corner of the page, hover your mouse over your profile picture.
Select "Settings": From the dropdown menu, click on "Settings."
Navigate to "Privacy Controls" or "My Apps": On the left-hand sidebar of the Settings page:
- Privacy Controls: This section enables you to manage the visibility of your activities, profile, and other personal data.
- My Apps: Here, you can review and revoke access for any third-party applications or services connected to your Strava account.
Review and Adjust: Go through the available settings to configure your data permissions as desired.

Key Data Permissions and Their Impact

Strava offers granular control over various aspects of your data. Understanding each category is essential for informed management.

Privacy Controls (Who Can See What): These settings dictate the visibility of your activities, profile, and other personal details.
- Activity Visibility: You can set activities to "Everyone," "Followers," or "Only You." This is crucial for controlling who sees your routes, pace, and other performance data.
- Profile Page Visibility: Determines who can view your full profile, including stats, recent activities, and followers/following lists.
- Flybys: Controls whether other athletes can see your activity in a "Flyby" animation, which shows who was near you during an activity.
- Group Activity Visibility: Manages who can see your participation in group activities.
- Privacy Zones: Allows you to define specific areas (e.g., your home or workplace) that will be hidden from public view on your activity maps.
Connected Services (Third-Party Access): This section, often found under "My Apps" or "Applications, Services, and Devices," lists all external applications, smartwatches, or fitness devices you've authorized to connect with Strava.
- Data Access: When you connect a third-party app, you grant it permission to read and/or write data to your Strava account. Regularly review these connections and revoke access for any apps you no longer use or trust.
Data Sharing (Aggregated Data): Strava uses aggregated, de-identified data for features that benefit the wider community.
- Metro and Heatmaps: You can opt-out of contributing your de-identified data to Strava Metro (which helps urban planners) and the Global Heatmap (which shows popular routes).
Marketing & Communication: These preferences control the types of emails and notifications you receive from Strava.
- Email Preferences: Manage subscriptions for newsletters, product updates, and community notifications.

Best Practices for Managing Your Strava Data

Proactive data management is key to maintaining privacy and security on Strava.

Regularly Review Settings: Periodically check your "Privacy Controls" and "Connected Apps" to ensure they still align with your preferences. This is especially important after app updates or when connecting new services.
Understand Third-Party Access: Before connecting any external app or device, read its privacy policy and understand what data it will access from your Strava account. Only grant necessary permissions.
Leverage Privacy Zones: If you start or end activities near your home or work, utilize the Privacy Zones feature to automatically hide these sensitive locations from public view.
Be Mindful of Public Sharing: While community engagement is a core part of Strava, consider the implications of sharing every detail publicly. For sensitive activities or locations, use the "Followers" or "Only You" privacy settings.
Use Enhanced Privacy Features: Explore features like "Hide from Leaderboards" for specific activities if you prefer not to compete publicly on certain segments.

Data Security and Strava's Commitment

Strava, like all major online platforms, invests in security measures to protect user data. While they strive to secure your information, the ultimate responsibility for your privacy settings rests with you. By actively managing your permissions, you play a crucial role in safeguarding your personal and activity data. Strava's commitment to privacy is detailed in their comprehensive Privacy Policy, which is always available on their website for detailed review.

Conclusion

Effectively managing your data permissions on Strava is an essential aspect of being a responsible digital athlete. By regularly accessing and adjusting the "Privacy Controls" and "Connected Apps" sections in your settings, you ensure that your personal and performance data is shared only as you intend. This proactive approach not only protects your privacy but also allows you to fully leverage Strava's features with confidence and peace of mind.

Strava: Locating and Managing Your Data Permissions and Privacy Settings