OWL NEST · DATA PRACTICES

Privacy policy

Last updated: October 14, 2026

Owl Nest (Google OAuth application name: ha-home) is a non-commercial personal project that reads data from a Google Nest thermostat after the account owner grants permission. This policy explains the data involved, where it goes, and the controls available to the owner.

Information accessed

With Google/Nest authorization, Owl Nest accesses device identifiers and available thermostat telemetry through Google's Smart Device Management API, including HVAC operating state, indoor temperature, and relative humidity. It may read information needed to discover the authorized thermostat and identify its room. The integration does not require access to Google emails, contacts, or other unrelated account data.

How the information is used

Owl Nest uses this data solely to show current thermostat conditions, keep a timestamped local history of observations, and compare HVAC activity with other home environmental measurements. The implemented integration is read-only: it does not send thermostat-control commands or change settings.

Storage and security

Thermostat observations are stored as local JSON and CSV files on the owner's Windows computer. OAuth refresh credentials and the client secret are protected using Windows user-account encryption (DPAPI). Readings can be viewed through the separately authenticated Owl's Lookout dashboard. Data is retained locally until the owner deletes it; this implementation does not currently have an automatic retention or deletion schedule.

Sharing

Owl Nest does not sell thermostat data or use it for advertising, targeted marketing, or AI training. Google's services process requests needed to access Nest device information. The owner uses Cloudflare services to host this public information site and to protect remote dashboard access; those service providers may process necessary network and request metadata. The integration is not offered to the public as a sign-up service.

About this public website

This static informational site does not request Google sign-in, accept thermostat data, or contain the private dashboard. It does not add analytics scripts, behavioral tracking tools, or advertising cookies. Its hosting provider may collect standard technical request logs, such as IP addresses and timestamps, to operate and secure the service.

Access, deletion, and revocation

The owner can stop the local recorder, delete locally recorded history and stored credentials, and revoke Owl Nest's Google/Nest authorization through Google's connected-app settings. Revoking access stops future authorized data retrieval but does not automatically erase files already saved on the owner's computer.

Contact

For questions about this personal integration and its privacy practices, contact venjax@gmail.com.

Changes

This policy may be updated if the integration's features or data practices change. Material changes will be reflected on this page with a new update date.