Geolocation API cautions
Location data can reveal sensitive information, so a useful geolocation feature needs clear consent, limited collection, and a safe fallback.
What you will learn
- How to ask for location at the right moment
- Why accuracy, retention, and sharing should be limited
- How to respond when a user denies permission
Before requesting
- Explain what the location is used for and how long it will be kept.
- Request only the accuracy and duration the feature needs.
- Use a secure context and review the browser permission behavior.
After receiving a position
- Keep the value out of console logs, URLs, and analytics unless there is a documented reason.
- Do not collect a precise position when an area or approximate result is enough.
- Protect stored data and remove it when it is no longer needed.
- Do not use location as authentication or proof of identity.
When permission is denied
Explain what the user can still do: enter a place manually, choose from a list, or continue with reduced functionality. Never repeatedly prompt without a clear user action.