Terms of Service
Last updated: February 2026
Welcome!
QSL Buddy is a free ham radio logging tool built by a fellow ham for the community. By using QSL Buddy, you agree to these terms. They're written in plain language because nobody enjoys reading legalese.
1. The Service
QSL Buddy is a free online ham radio logbook with optional integrations for QRZ.com, ClubLog, LoTW, and Google Drive. The QSL Buddy Bridge desktop application is also available for WSJT-X/JTDX integration.
The service is provided free of charge. I may add, change, or remove features at any time as the project evolves.
2. Your Account
- You are responsible for keeping your account secure.
- Provide accurate information, especially your callsign.
- One account per person. Don't share your account credentials.
- You must be a licensed amateur radio operator or have a genuine interest in ham radio to use the logging features.
3. Your Data & Backups
You are responsible for your own backups. While I do my best to keep your data safe, things can go wrong with any online service.
QSL Buddy provides several backup tools to help you:
- ADIF Export: Export your full logbook at any time.
- Google Drive Backup: Automatic scheduled backups to your Google Drive.
- Bridge Local Database: The Bridge app keeps a local SQLite copy of all QSOs on your device.
I strongly recommend exporting your data regularly and keeping local copies. I am not responsible for any data loss.
4. Third-Party Integrations
When you connect QRZ.com, ClubLog, LoTW, or Google Drive:
- You provide your own API keys and credentials for these services.
- Your credentials are stored encrypted, but you are responsible for keeping those accounts in good standing.
- I am not responsible for issues caused by third-party services (downtime, data loss, API changes, account suspensions).
- Each third-party service has its own terms and privacy policies that apply to your use of their services.
5. QSL Buddy Bridge
The Bridge desktop application is provided as-is. Key things to know:
- The local SQLite database on your device is your responsibility.
- I do not have access to data stored locally on your computer.
- The Bridge syncs QSOs to the cloud when connected — if you're offline, QSOs are queued locally and synced when internet returns.
- I recommend keeping your Bridge app updated for the best experience.
6. Acceptable Use
Please don't:
- Abuse or overload the service
- Use automated tools to scrape or spam the API
- Impersonate other operators or use fake callsigns
- Attempt to access other users' data
- Attempt to bypass authentication, rate limits, or other security measures
- Use the service for anything illegal
API endpoints are rate-limited to ensure fair use for everyone. If you exceed the limit, requests will be temporarily blocked (HTTP 429). Normal usage will never hit these limits.
I reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms.
7. Security
QSL Buddy implements multiple layers of security to protect your data:
- Encryption: All connections use HTTPS/TLS. Sensitive credentials (third-party API keys and passwords) are encrypted with AES-256-GCM at rest.
- Authentication: Every API endpoint requires a valid session. All data access is scoped to your account.
- Rate limiting: All API endpoints are rate-limited to prevent brute-force attacks and abuse.
- Security headers: Content Security Policy, HSTS, X-Frame-Options, and other headers are enforced to protect against common web vulnerabilities.
- Token security: Bridge API tokens are stored as one-way SHA-256 hashes. Voice memo URLs use time-limited signed links.
If you discover a security vulnerability, please report it via the feedback form on the About page. I take all reports seriously and will address them promptly.
8. No Warranty
QSL Buddy is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind, express or implied. There is no guarantee of uninterrupted service, data preservation, or error-free operation. This is a free, indie project maintained on a best-effort basis.
9. Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, QSL Buddy and its developer shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from your use of the service. This includes, but is not limited to, data loss, sync failures, third-party service issues, or any damages resulting from service interruptions.
10. Changes to Terms
I may update these terms from time to time. The "Last updated" date at the top will reflect any changes. Continued use of QSL Buddy after changes means you accept the updated terms.
11. Questions?
If you have any questions about these terms, use the feedback form on the About page.
73 de Priit