What legal considerations do I need for my app?
Quick Answer
At minimum: privacy policy, terms of service. If handling payments: consider business structure. If handling sensitive data: understand privacy laws. Consult a lawyer for anything complex.
Full Explanation
Legal requirements vary based on what your app does and where your users are. Here's a practical overview:
Everyone needs:
Privacy policy: What data you collect, how you use it, who you share it with. Required by app stores, payment processors, and many laws. Template generators exist, but customise for your actual practices.
Terms of service: Rules for using your app, liability limitations. Protects you if things go wrong.
Cookie notice: If using cookies for tracking (analytics, advertising) in EU/UK markets.
If you're making money:
Business structure: Operating as a sole trader is simplest in Australia. Consider a Pty Ltd company when revenue grows or you want liability protection.
GST registration: Required in Australia once you earn over $75k annually.
Payment processor terms: Stripe, PayPal have their own requirements.
If handling sensitive data:
Australia: Privacy Act 1988 governs personal information handling EU users: GDPR compliance (stricter requirements) US users: Various state laws (California CCPA, etc.)
Practical approach:
1. Use a privacy policy generator to start, customise it to reflect your actual practices 2. Use standard terms of service templates 3. Register a business when you're ready to take payments 4. Consult a lawyer before handling health data, financial data, or children's data 5. Get proper advice before raising investment
Don't let legal concerns stop you from building, but don't ignore them entirely.
Related Questions
How do I handle user data securely?
Use established services for authentication and storage. Minimise the data you collect. Understand privacy laws like GDPR and Australia's Privacy Act. When in doubt, consult a professional.
How do I protect my app idea?
Ideas are worth less than execution. Focus on building and launching rather than protecting. If you're worried about competition, move faster-speed is the best protection.
What's the real cost to build an app with AI?
A basic MVP can cost $0-500 using AI tools. Production apps with users typically run $50-500/month for hosting, plus tool subscriptions of $20-100/month.
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