Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about FindSquad
General Questions
What is FindSquad?
FindSquad is a mobile app that coordinates volunteer search efforts for lost pets, missing persons, and dropped items using patented sector division algorithms and real-time GPS tracking. It makes organizing and joining searches incredibly simple.
How much does it cost?
The app is FREE to download. Lost pet searches cost $3.99, lost item searches cost $4.99, and missing person searches cost $0.99. Volunteers never pay to join. Evidence searches are available for $19.99. Squad Scramble game pricing varies based on group size.
Why charge organizers but not volunteers?
Organizers get tremendous value from coordinating help when they're in a desperate situation. Volunteers are providing free labor to help their community - charging them would reduce participation and be ethically wrong. Our model ensures maximum volunteer participation while sustaining the platform.
How long do searches stay active?
Person searches: 7 days
Pet searches: 3 days
Item searches: 3 days
Evidence searches: 7 days
You can end a search early at any time by marking it as "FOUND".
Technical Questions
Do I need cell service during the search?
Yes, currently you need a data connection for real-time coordination. Offline mode is planned for 2026, which will allow searches in areas with limited connectivity.
What are the search patterns?
We use 7 patented algorithms including Grid, Radial, Expanding Square, Contour, Urban Block, Shoreline, and Evidence Grid patterns. The system automatically selects the best pattern based on terrain type and search type.
How accurate is the GPS tracking?
Standard smartphone GPS hovers around 5-15 meters in field conditions, and accuracy may be degraded with poor GPS or GLONASS signal. For evidence searches, FindSquad uses a specialized overlapping search algorithm (50% sector overlap) that achieves sub-5m effective precision by creating intentional overlap at sector boundaries to compensate for GPS uncertainty. Strong GPS or GLONASS signal is required for optimal results.
What platforms does FindSquad support?
FindSquad is available on iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play) and can be launched via our deep link (findsquad.app/dl). We're currently in beta testing. A web dashboard for search monitoring is planned for 2026.
Payment Questions
Are there refunds?
Generally we do not offer refunds once a search is activated, except in cases of technical failures or duplicate charges. Contact findsquadapp@gmail.com if you experience issues.
Will there be a subscription option?
We're considering monthly subscription plans for frequent users and organizations in 2026. This would give you a certain number of searches per month at a discount.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover) and Apple Pay/Google Pay through our in-app payment processor.
Squad Scramble Questions
What is Squad Scramble?
Squad Scramble is a GPS-based adventure race. Players navigate to stations using compass directions, complete creative and physical challenges at each stop, and compete for the best combined score. Learn more on our Squad Scramble page.
How much does Squad Scramble cost?
Hosts create games on the web and purchase player slots. Players can join for free if the host covers it, or pay a small fee to claim their spot depending on how the host sets it up.
Can we play in our small local park?
Yes! Squad Scramble works in local parks, downtown areas, college campuses, and neighborhoods. Any walkable area with GPS coverage will work.
How does scoring work?
Your score is split 50/50 between speed and challenge performance. Move quickly between stations to earn race points, and complete challenges well to earn challenge points. Both matter equally for winning.
Safety & Privacy
Is my location data private?
Absolutely. Your live location is only visible to the mission you joined, and we wipe it within 10 days of that search or game finishing. Our CEO has promised we will never use or monetize your data without explicit permission—if that ever changes, we’ll ask first and compensate you for the privilege. No shadow tracking. No surprise ads. Ever.
What if I join a search and feel unsafe?
Tap “Leave Search” and your location stops streaming immediately. All of your data is automatically deleted within 10 days, and you can request instant deletion with one tap if you don’t want to wait. There’s also a “Report Search” button to flag suspicious missions so our team can intervene.
Can children use FindSquad?
Users must be 13+ to create an account. Children under 13 can participate in searches if supervised by a parent/guardian using the parent's account.
Do you work with law enforcement?
We’re actively working with departments to build direct notification rails and Amber/Silver alert integrations, but those features aren’t live yet. Right now we share exports and mission data when law enforcement requests it with proper legal authority.