Privacy Policy
Last updated:
Introduction
At SaccoShares, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our platform.
By using SaccoShares, you consent to the data practices described in this policy. We encourage you to read this policy carefully and contact us if you have any questions.
Information We Collect
Personal Information
We collect information you provide directly to us:
- Account Information: Name, email address, phone number, date of birth
- Profile Information: Profile picture, bio, location, preferences
- Financial Information: Bank account details, payment information (processed securely)
- Identity Verification: Government-issued ID, proof of address
- Communication: Messages, feedback, support requests
Automatically Collected Information
We automatically collect certain information when you use our platform:
- Device Information: IP address, browser type, operating system
- Usage Data: Pages visited, time spent, features used
- Location Data: General location (city/country level)
- Cookies: Small data files stored on your device
- Log Files: Server logs, error reports, performance data
Third-Party Information
We may receive information from third parties such as:
- Social media platforms (if you connect accounts)
- Payment processors and financial institutions
- Analytics and advertising partners
- Public databases and government sources
How We Use Your Information
Primary Uses
We use your information to:
- Provide and maintain our SACCO shares marketplace
- Process transactions and facilitate payments
- Verify your identity and prevent fraud
- Connect buyers and sellers
- Send important notifications and updates
- Provide customer support and respond to inquiries
Improvement and Analytics
We also use information to:
- Improve our platform and user experience
- Analyze usage patterns and trends
- Develop new features and services
- Conduct research and market analysis
- Ensure platform security and prevent abuse
Marketing and Communications
With your consent, we may use your information to:
- Send promotional emails and newsletters
- Display personalized advertisements
- Invite you to events and webinars
- Share relevant market insights and opportunities
Information Sharing and Disclosure
We Do Not Sell Your Data
SaccoShares does not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for their marketing purposes.
When We Share Information
We may share your information in the following circumstances:
With Your Consent
- When you explicitly authorize us to share information
- When you choose to make your profile or listings public
- When you participate in community features
Service Providers
- Payment processors for transaction processing
- Cloud hosting providers for data storage
- Analytics services for platform improvement
- Customer support tools for assistance
- Email service providers for communications
Legal Requirements
- To comply with applicable laws and regulations
- To respond to legal requests and court orders
- To protect our rights, property, and safety
- To investigate and prevent fraud or abuse
Business Transfers
In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred as part of the transaction.
Data Security
Security Measures
We implement comprehensive security measures to protect your information:
- Encryption: All data is encrypted in transit and at rest
- Access Controls: Strict access controls and authentication
- Regular Audits: Security assessments and penetration testing
- Employee Training: Regular security awareness training
- Incident Response: Procedures for handling security incidents
Your Role in Security
You can help protect your information by:
- Using strong, unique passwords
- Enabling two-factor authentication
- Keeping your devices and software updated
- Being cautious of phishing attempts
- Logging out after each session
Data Breach Response
In the unlikely event of a data breach, we will:
- Notify affected users within 72 hours
- Work with authorities to investigate
- Take immediate steps to contain the breach
- Provide guidance on protective measures
Data Retention
Retention Periods
We retain your information for different periods based on its purpose:
- Account Data: Retained while your account is active
- Transaction Records: 7 years for tax and legal compliance
- Communication Data: 2 years for support purposes
- Analytics Data: 3 years for platform improvement
- Marketing Data: Until you opt out or request deletion
Deletion Requests
You can request deletion of your personal information at any time. We will:
- Delete your account and personal data
- Remove your listings and communications
- Retain only legally required information
- Confirm deletion within 30 days
Anonymization
Some data may be anonymized for research and analytics purposes, ensuring no personal identification is possible.
Your Rights
Access and Control
You have the following rights regarding your personal information:
Right to Access
You can request a copy of all personal information we hold about you.
Right to Rectification
You can request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information.
Right to Erasure
You can request deletion of your personal information ("right to be forgotten").
Right to Portability
You can request a copy of your data in a machine-readable format.
Right to Object
You can object to processing of your data for certain purposes.
Right to Restrict Processing
You can request limitation of how we process your information.
Right to Withdraw Consent
You can withdraw consent for marketing communications at any time.
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help us provide and improve our services.
Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies
Required for basic platform functionality (authentication, security, preferences).
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how users interact with our platform to improve performance.
Marketing Cookies
Used to deliver relevant advertisements and measure campaign effectiveness.
Third-Party Cookies
Set by our partners for payment processing, analytics, and advertising.
Managing Cookies
You can control cookies through your browser settings. However, disabling certain cookies may affect platform functionality.
International Data Transfers
Data Location
Your data is primarily stored and processed in Kenya. However, some service providers may be located in other countries.
Adequate Protection
When we transfer data internationally, we ensure adequate protection through:
- Standard contractual clauses
- Adequacy decisions by relevant authorities
- Certification schemes and codes of conduct
- Binding corporate rules
Your Rights
You have the same rights regardless of where your data is processed. We will respond to your requests in accordance with applicable law.
Children's Privacy
Age Requirements
SaccoShares is not intended for children under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18.
Parental Rights
If you believe we have collected information from a child under 18, please contact us immediately. We will take steps to remove such information.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
Updates
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, technology, legal requirements, or other factors.
Notification
We will notify you of significant changes through:
- Email notifications to registered users
- Platform announcements and banners
- Updated "Last Updated" date on this page
Continued Use
Your continued use of SaccoShares after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.
Contact Us
Privacy Officer
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact our Privacy Officer:
Phone
Address
SaccoShares Limited
Attn: Privacy Officer
Nairobi, Kenya
Response Time
We aim to respond to all privacy-related inquiries within 30 days.