PayGuard Privacy Policy

Last Updated: 30th March, 2024

Payguard Escrow Solutions Limited ("PayGuard", "we", "us", or "our") is dedicated to safeguarding the privacy and security of users ("you" or "your") of our PayGuard mobile application (the "App"). This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information when you interact with our App. We adhere to the highest standards of data protection to ensure your information is handled responsibly and securely.

1. Information We Collect

We collect various types of information to provide and enhance our services. This includes:

• Account Information: Username, password, security questions, and related account details.
• Contact Information: Email address, phone number, and other contact details.
• Identity Verification Information: Full name, government-issued identification (such as NIN or driver's license), and proof of address. This is required to comply with Nigerian regulations, including Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws.
• Financial Information: Bank account details, payment instrument details (e.g., debit/credit card), and other financial data necessary for processing transactions within the App.
• User-Generated Content: Information you provide related to your transactions, including descriptions, documents, and any attachments.
• Automatically Collected Information: Data collected through the App, including IP address, device type, operating system, browser type, browsing activity within the App, and time spent on the App.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information collected from you for the following purposes:

• App Operation: To provide and operate the App’s core functionalities, including facilitating secure escrow transactions between users.
• Identity Verification: To verify your identity in compliance with KYC and AML regulations, ensuring that we meet our legal obligations.
• Transaction Processing: To process payments, manage escrow accounts, and handle any disputes or inquiries related to transactions.
• Customer Support: To respond to your inquiries, troubleshoot issues, and provide necessary support.
• Communication: To send important information, such as updates, security alerts, support messages, and policy changes.
• App Improvement: To analyze usage patterns and feedback, enabling us to enhance the App’s functionality and user experience.
• Compliance and Legal Obligations: To comply with applicable laws, regulations, and legal processes, including requests from law enforcement or other government agencies.

3. Disclosure of Your Information

Your personal information may be shared with the following parties under specific circumstances:

• Transaction Participants: Information necessary for completing a transaction may be shared with other users involved in the transaction.
• Third-Party Service Providers: We work with various service providers to assist with App operations, including cloud storage, payment processing, and fraud prevention. These providers are contractually obligated to protect your information and use it solely for the services they provide.
• Legal and Regulatory Authorities: If required by law, we may disclose your information to law enforcement, regulatory bodies, or other legal entities to comply with legal obligations.

4. Your Rights

You have certain rights concerning your personal information:

• Access and Rectification: You can request access to your personal information and ask us to correct any inaccuracies.
• Deletion: You may request the deletion of your information, subject to legal and operational limitations.
• Withdrawal of Consent: You can withdraw your consent to the processing of your information at any time. However, this may affect your ability to use certain features of the App.
• Portability: You can request a copy of your information in a structured, machine-readable format where applicable.

5. Security

We implement robust security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. This includes encryption, secure servers, and regular security audits. However, please note that no system is entirely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Once your information is no longer required, we will securely delete or anonymize it.

7. International Data Transfers

As part of our global operations, your information may be transferred to, stored, and processed in countries outside Nigeria. These countries may have data protection laws that are different from those in Nigeria. We take appropriate measures to ensure that your information remains protected in accordance with this Privacy Policy and applicable laws.

8. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your experience on the App. Cookies help us understand how you interact with the App, improve functionality, and tailor content to your preferences. You can manage your cookie preferences through your device settings.

9. Children’s Privacy

The App is not intended for use by individuals under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we become aware that we have inadvertently collected such information, we will take steps to delete it promptly.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices, technologies, or legal requirements. When we make changes, we will revise the "Last Updated" date at the top of the policy. We encourage you to review this policy regularly to stay informed about how we protect your information.

11. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or how we handle your information, please contact us at:

Email: care@payguard.org.ng

Mailing Address: No 2. Behind Madami, by White Nature Street, Agwa, Kudenda EXT. Kaduna, Kaduna State