- Introduction
1.1 Overview:
At TeacherHQ, we are deeply committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your Personal Information. This Privacy Policy is designed to provide you with a clear understanding of how we collect, utilize, and safeguard your Personal Information in full compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
1.2 Applicability:
This Privacy Policy applies to all users of TeacherHQ’s services, encompassing our website, mobile applications, and any other platforms or services provided by TeacherHQ collectively referred to as “our Platforms.”
- Definitions
2.1. Personal Information: In this Privacy Policy, the term “Personal Information” refers to any information that pertains to an identifiable natural person, as defined by POPIA.
2.2. Processing: “Processing” encompasses all activities performed on Personal Information, including collection, storage, use, or disclosure, as stipulated by POPIA.
2.3. POPIA: Referring to the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013.
- Collection of Personal Information
3.1. Types of Information Collected:
TeacherHQ collects various types of Personal Information from users, and this section outlines what specific data is gathered and the reasons for collecting it:
Name and Surname: We collect your name and surname to personalize your experience on our platform. This information is used to address you by your name and to facilitate various interactions, including order processing and customer support.
Contact Information: This includes your email address, physical address, and mobile phone number. We collect this information to enable order processing and to maintain open communication with you. Your email address is particularly important for sending order updates, account-related notifications, and, with your consent, marketing materials. Your physical address may be required for accurate delivery, and your mobile phone number can serve as an additional communication channel.
Demographic Information (Gender and Date of Birth): We may ask for your gender and date of birth. This demographic data can help us better tailor our offerings and recommendations to your preferences. For example, understanding your age group and gender can help us suggest products and services that are more relevant to you.
Identification Number: In some cases, we may need to collect your identification number to comply with specific legal requirements or to verify your identity for specific services. This data is collected in a secure manner and used solely for the intended purpose.
Online Identifiers: This category encompasses various data points, including usernames, IP addresses, and other digital identifiers that we may collect during your interactions with our platform. These identifiers help us manage and secure your account, monitor website traffic, and provide personalized services.
It’s crucial to emphasize that the collection of Personal Information is performed with great care and is strictly related to the core services and user experience on TeacherHQ. We respect your privacy and maintain a commitment to using this information reasonably, securely, and in line with the principles of POPIA. The collection of data is always intended to improve your experience and to ensure the seamless and secure operation of our services. We also keep your data safe through robust security measures, as described in section 6 of this Privacy Policy.
Please note that the use of your Personal Information adheres to the principles outlined in POPIA and the principles of data protection and privacy, ensuring that your data is used for specific, lawful purposes and is handled in a manner that respects your privacy and security.4. Use of Personal Information
4.1. Purpose of Processing:
TeacherHQ processes Personal Information to serve specific, legitimate purposes, ensuring that your data is used in a manner that aligns with your expectations and legal requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the various purposes for processing your Personal Information:
Platform Access: One of the primary reasons for processing your Personal Information is to grant you access to our Platforms. This allows you to browse, search, and interact with our services seamlessly. Your Personal Information, such as your email address, may be used as a username or identifier to log in securely.
Order Processing: To fulfil your orders for products and services, we need to process your Personal Information. This includes details like your name, physical address, and mobile phone number, which are essential for accurately processing and delivering your orders. It’s crucial to highlight that we follow secure and established practices to protect your order data during processing.
Communication: Effective and timely communication is a key aspect of our service. We may use your email address and mobile phone number to keep you informed about your orders, including order confirmations, updates, and tracking information. We may also seek your explicit consent to send you marketing materials and promotions, which are personalized to your interests and preferences. You can always manage your communication preferences or opt-out as per your choice.
Age Verification: In accordance with legal requirements, we may need to verify your age for certain product purchases. This verification process may involve providing proof of age to ensure compliance with age restrictions, which can be particularly relevant for products like alcohol or tobacco. This step is taken to meet regulatory obligations and to ensure that our services are responsible and law-abiding.
Legal Compliance: Complying with legal and regulatory requirements is of utmost importance. TeacherHQ processes your data to meet these obligations. For example, we may be required to maintain certain records or disclose specific information as part of our commitment to lawful operations and data protection laws.
It’s essential to emphasize that your Personal Information is processed with the principles of POPIA in mind, which means it is handled in a manner that is reasonable, adequate, and purpose-specific. This ensures that your data is used for the intended purposes and that it is not unnecessarily or excessively processed. Our goal is to deliver a seamless, secure, and personalized experience while respecting your privacy and protecting your data.
If you ever have any questions or concerns regarding the processing of your Personal Information or if you wish to exercise your rights under POPIA, such as access, correction, or deletion of your data, please refer to section 7 of this Privacy Policy or reach out to our provided contact information. We are committed to transparency and ensuring that your rights are respected throughout your interaction with TeacherHQ.
- Age Restriction
5.1. Age Requirements:
If you are under the age of 18, it is imperative that you obtain explicit permission from your parent or guardian before utilizing our Platforms or providing us with your Personal Information. We may validate this permission by requesting contact details of your parent or guardian. In the absence of verified permission, your access to our Platforms will be restricted.
5.2. Product Restrictions: It’s important to note that TeacherHQ may not sell certain products, regardless of supervision by a parent or guardian, to individuals under the age of 18. Proof of age may be requested prior to the delivery of such products.
- Security and Data Protection
6.1. Data Security Measures:
The security of your Personal Information is a paramount concern for us. TeacherHQ employs robust security measures and industry-standard practices, including encryption, to protect your data against unauthorized access, disclosure, or alteration.
- Your Rights
7.1. Your Rights Under POPIA:
As a user of TeacherHQ’s services, you possess specific rights under the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA). These rights are designed to empower you and give you control over how your Personal Information is handled:
Access to Your Data: You have the right to request access to your Personal Information that we have collected and processed. This means you can inquire about the types of data we hold, how we use it, and with whom we share it. We are committed to providing you with clear, concise, and complete information about your data.
Correction of Your Data: If you find that your Personal Information is inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated, you have the right to request corrections. Ensuring the accuracy of your data is important for the quality and effectiveness of the services we provide.
Deletion of Your Data: In certain circumstances, you have the right to request the deletion of your Personal Information. This can be particularly relevant when your data is no longer necessary for the purposes for which it was collected, or if you withdraw your consent for processing. Deletion requests are subject to legal and operational considerations.
Objection to Processing: You can object to the processing of your Personal Information, especially if you believe that we are processing your data unlawfully or in a manner that infringes on your rights.
Restriction of Processing: In some cases, you can request that the processing of your data be restricted. This means that we can continue to store your data but not further process it. This can be applicable, for example, if you contest the accuracy of your data.
Data Portability: In specific situations, you have the right to receive your Personal Information in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format. This enables you to transfer your data to another service or organization. However, this right is subject to certain conditions and may not apply to all types of data.
Withdrawal of Consent: If you have provided consent for the processing of your data, you have the right to withdraw that consent at any time. We respect your choices, and this right allows you to control how your data is used.
To exercise any of these rights or if you have questions, concerns, or requests related to your Personal Information, please refer to the contact information provided in section 9 of this Privacy Policy. We are committed to respecting and facilitating your rights under POPIA and ensuring that your data is managed in compliance with data protection and privacy laws.
Your data is your personal information, and we are dedicated to ensuring that you have the ability to manage and control it in a manner that aligns with your preferences and legal rights.
- Changes to this Privacy Policy
8.1. Policy Updates:
TeacherHQ reserves the right to revise or amend this Privacy Policy at any time. Any changes will be clearly communicated on our Platforms. Your continued use of our services signifies your acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.
- Contact Information
9.1. Reach Out to Us:
If you have questions, or concerns, or require further information about this Privacy Policy or the handling of your Personal Information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at: hello@teacherhq.co.za