Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

SafeTrade ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our platform and services.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide

• Account Information: Name, email, phone number, and password when you register
• Identity Verification: ID documents, selfies, and address verification documents
• Financial Information: Bank account details for withdrawals and payments
• Transaction Data: Item listings, prices, and communication with other users
• Communication: Messages sent through our platform and support requests

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

• Device Information: Device type, operating system, browser type
• Location Data: Approximate location for safety features and fraud prevention
• Usage Data: Pages visited, features used, and interaction patterns
• Log Data: IP address, access times, and error logs

2.3 Information from Third Parties

• Identity verification results from verification providers
• Payment information from payment processors
• Authentication data from social login providers

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Provide, maintain, and improve our services
• Process transactions and manage escrow funds
• Verify user identities and prevent fraud
• Facilitate communication between users
• Send transaction updates and notifications
• Resolve disputes and provide customer support
• Analyze usage patterns to improve our platform
• Comply with legal obligations
• Protect the safety and security of our users

4. AI-Powered Features

SafeTrade uses artificial intelligence to enhance security and user experience:

• Item Verification: AI analyzes photos to verify item condition and authenticity
• Fraud Detection: AI monitors transactions and communications for suspicious activity
• Price Intelligence: AI provides market-based price recommendations
• Dispute Resolution: AI assists in analyzing dispute evidence

AI decisions may be reviewed by human moderators. Users can request human review of AI-made decisions affecting their accounts.

5. Information Sharing

We may share your information with:

• Other Users: Limited profile information is shared with transaction counterparties
• Service Providers: Companies that help us provide our services (payment processors, cloud hosting, etc.)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or government request
• Safety: To protect the safety, rights, or property of SafeTrade or others
• Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures including:

• 256-bit SSL/TLS encryption for data transmission
• Encrypted storage for sensitive data
• Regular security audits and penetration testing
• Access controls and authentication requirements
• Employee security training

7. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. After account closure, we may retain certain information for:

• Legal compliance (tax records, transaction history)
• Dispute resolution
• Fraud prevention
• Enforcing our agreements

8. Your Rights

Under South African POPIA and other applicable laws, you have the right to:

• Access: Request a copy of your personal information
• Correction: Request correction of inaccurate information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your information (subject to legal requirements)
• Objection: Object to certain processing of your information
• Portability: Receive your data in a portable format
• Withdrawal: Withdraw consent for certain processing

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@ubuntushield.com

9. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies for:

• Authentication and security
• Preferences and settings
• Analytics and performance
• Advertising (with consent)

You can manage cookie preferences in your browser settings.

10. Children's Privacy

SafeTrade is not intended for users under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from children. If we learn we have collected information from a child, we will delete it.

11. International Transfers

Your information may be processed in countries outside South Africa. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for such transfers in compliance with applicable data protection laws.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes via email or platform notification. Your continued use after changes indicates acceptance.

13. Contact Us

For privacy-related questions or to exercise your rights:

• Email: privacy@ubuntushield.com
• Information Officer: privacy@ubuntushield.com
• Address: Cape Town, South Africa

14. Regulatory Information

SafeTrade complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) of South Africa and applicable financial regulations. Our Information Officer can be contacted for POPIA related queries.