This Privacy Policy describes how ARQSA ("we", "our", or "us") collects, uses, and protects your personal and business information when you use our website, mobile application, and related services.
1. What Information We Collect
- Personal Information: When you register, request information, or use our services, we may collect information such as your name, email address, phone number, and business details.
- Usage Data: We collect limited technical data on how you use our website, such as page visits and device type, via essential cookies required for platform operation.
2. How We Use Your Information
We process your information only where permitted by law, on the basis of your consent, the performance of a contract, compliance with legal obligations, or where we have a legitimate interest that does not override your rights.
- To provide, operate, and improve our platform and services.
- To communicate with you regarding your account, enquiries, or updates.
- To connect you with relevant professionals, suppliers, or opportunities where you opt in.
- To comply with legal obligations under POPIA and other South African law.
- For marketing, with your consent where required.
4. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures, including encryption, restricted access, and written contracts with service providers, to protect your information. However, no online system is 100% secure.
5. Data Retention
We keep your information while your account is active. If you close your account, we retain your data for up to 12 months for legal, regulatory, or dispute purposes, after which it is securely deleted or anonymised unless longer retention is required by law.
6. Your Rights
- You can request access, correction, or deletion of your personal or business data.
- You may object to processing in certain circumstances.
- You may withdraw consent at any time, without affecting prior lawful processing.
- You may opt out of marketing via the unsubscribe link or by contacting us.
- You may lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa at www.justice.gov.za/inforeg.
8. Data Breaches
If your personal information is compromised, we will notify you and the Information Regulator of South Africa as soon as reasonably possible, in accordance with Section 22 of POPIA.
9. PAIA Manual
In addition to this Privacy Policy, ARQSA publishes a Section 51 PAIA Manual which explains how to request access to information we hold under PAIA.
10. Contact Us
For questions or requests, please contact our Information Officer.