Snapchat Data Transparency

Welcome to Snapchat – Data Control Redesign

Here’s a clearer view of how your snaps, stories, and location are handled. Make informed choices about what you share. This redesign is intended to show you exactly what data we store, and for how long.

Go to Privacy Dashboard

Ephemeral Snaps & Storage

By design, your Snaps “disappear” after they’re viewed. However, unopened Snaps can be stored on our servers for up to 30 days so they can be delivered if your friend opens them late. This is a real policy from our Snapchat Terms of Service.

While we don’t display these Snaps after their intended viewing, some data (like metadata or logs) may remain for troubleshooting or legal obligations.

Location Settings

Snapchat’s location features (Snap Map, Geo-filters) rely on real-time device location. By default, your friends can see your Bitmoji on the map when you open the app. If you’d rather hide your location, simply enable Ghost Mode or use custom location settings.

Ghost Mode
Hide your real-time location from all other users. You will still be able to access standard Snap features, but your friends won’t see you on the Snap Map.
Location for Friends
Share your location only with friends you select. If Ghost Mode is on, this will be disabled automatically.
Location for Everyone
Make your location publicly visible to all of your friends by default. This setting can help with location-specific filters but may pose a privacy risk.

Note: You can switch between these modes at any time. We will never share your location with third parties outside these choices without additional permission, except as otherwise noted in our Privacy Policy.

Snapchat Privacy Dashboard

Content & Retention

Save Snaps to Memories
When enabled, we store your Snaps in Memories so you can revisit them anytime. If disabled, Snaps won’t be stored on your account after viewing.
Story Visibility
Choose who sees your Stories. By default, friends can see them for 24 hours. You can limit to specific individuals or keep them public for more engagement.

Analytics & Ads

We gather some usage data to improve filters and show relevant ads. You can manage these preferences below:

Personalized Filters & Lenses
Allow us to use your Snaps and location to serve playful filters based on what’s around you.
Personalized Ads
Show advertising tailored to your interests and location. If turned off, you’ll still see ads, but they may be less relevant.
Note: Opting out of certain features may limit access to specific filters, lenses, or location-based functionalities. You’re always free to update these settings in your Profile > Settings > Privacy.

From Snapchat Terms of Service (Snap Inc.):

“...When you open or send a Snap, we automatically collect data to better understand how you use our services. Unopened Snaps are stored for up to 30 days...”
Source: Snap.com Terms