Privacy Policy
- Last Updated: December 2024
1. Introduction
Welcome to Stand By Me Animal Care (“we,” “us,” “our”), and thank you for visiting our website, stand-by-me.co.za (“Site”). We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is collected and used lawfully, transparently, and securely, in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA), and other applicable laws.
This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, process, store, share, and protect your personal information. By using our Site and engaging with our services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of our Site and services.
2. Information We Collect
The personal information we collect may include, but is not limited to:
- Identification details such as your name and surname.
- Contact details such as your email address, telephone number, and physical address.
- Payment information (where applicable) for donations, orders, or services you request.
- Any information you voluntarily provide to us through forms, inquiries, or feedback.
We may also collect non-personal information related to your visit, including your IP address, browser type, device information, operating system, and browsing preferences. This data helps us improve the functionality and user experience of our Site.
3. How We Collect Your Information
We collect information through:
- Direct Interactions: When you fill out forms, sign up for newsletters, make donations, or contact us via email or phone.
- Automated Technologies: Cookies and similar technologies that track your interaction with our Site to enhance your browsing experience.
- Third Parties: From service providers or partners who assist us in delivering our services, where you have given consent or it is legally permissible.
4. Use of Your Personal Information
We use your personal information to:
- Provide the services you request, such as processing donations or responding to inquiries.
- Improve and personalize your experience on our Site.
- Send you updates, newsletters, and other communications you have subscribed to.
- Comply with legal, regulatory, or contractual obligations.
- Protect our legitimate interests, such as ensuring the security and integrity of our Site.
5. Cookies and Similar Technologies
We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your experience on our Site. Cookies help us remember your preferences, understand user behaviour, and improve our content and services. You can manage or disable cookies in your browser settings, although some functionalities of the Site may be limited if cookies are disabled.
6. Disclosure of Your Information
We will not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. However, we may share your information with:
- Service Providers: Trusted third parties who assist us with operations, processing payments, or managing communications, subject to strict data protection measures.
- Legal Compliance: Government authorities or regulators when required by law or to protect our rights and safety.
- Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or transfer of assets, where your personal information may form part of the transaction, subject to the same or similar privacy protections.
7. Your Rights and Choices
In accordance with POPIA and other applicable laws, you have the right to:
- Access: Request information about the personal data we hold about you.
- Correction: Request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete personal information.
- Deletion: Under certain conditions, request the deletion of your personal information.
- Objection & Withdrawal of Consent: Object to the processing of your personal information or withdraw consent at any time, provided it does not affect the lawfulness of prior processing.
- Complaints: Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator if you believe your privacy rights have been infringed.
To exercise these rights, please contact us at info@stand-by-me.co.za.
8. Data Security
We take appropriate security measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. While no method of transmission or storage is entirely secure, we strive to use industry-standard safeguards to protect your data.
9. International Data Transfers
If we transfer your personal information outside of South Africa, we will ensure that appropriate data protection measures are in place, ensuring similar levels of protection as required under POPIA.
10. Data Retention
We will retain your personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, or as required by law. Once no longer needed, we will securely delete or anonymize your information.
11. Third-Party Links
Our Site may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of external sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of these sites before providing any personal information.
12. Children’s Privacy
Our Site and services are not directed to children under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from individuals under 18. If you believe we have collected such information, please contact us so we can remove it.
13. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page, with the “Last Updated” date revised accordingly. We encourage you to check this page periodically to stay informed.
14. Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Stand By Me Animal Care