Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing Sourcemerz for your business listing needs. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you use our business listing website (www.sourcemerz.com).

2. Information We Collect

At Sourcemerz.com, we collect various types of information to provide and improve our business listing services. The information we collect falls into the following categories:

a. Personal Information:

When you create an account with us, we collect personal details such as your name, email address, and contact information. This information is necessary for account creation, management, and communication purposes.

b. Business Listing Information:

If you submit a business listing, we gather additional details related to your business, including the business name, address, phone number, hours of operation, and other relevant information to create a comprehensive listing.

c. Usage Information:

We automatically collect data about your interaction with our website. This includes the pages you visit, the features you use, and the duration of your visit. This information helps us understand how users engage with our platform.

d. Device and Browser Information:

We collect information about the devices and browsers you use to access our website. This may include details such as device type, operating system, browser type, and version. This data helps us optimize our platform for various devices and browsers.

e. Location Information:

If you provide consent, we may collect information about your geographical location. This helps us deliver location-based services and tailor content to your region.

f. User-Generated Content:

Any content you voluntarily submit to our platform, such as reviews, comments, or additional business information, is collected. This content enhances our business listings and user engagement.

g. Cookies and Similar Technologies:

We use cookies and similar technologies to track your browsing behavior on our website. These technologies help us improve user experience, provide personalized content, and gather analytics on website usage.
h. Communication Data:

Information exchanged during communication with our support team, including emails, messages, and chat transcripts, may be collected. This helps us address user queries and improve our customer support services.

i. Third-Party Integrations:

If you choose to connect your account with third-party services, we may collect information from these integrations. This could include social media profile information if you use social login features.

j. Survey and Feedback Data:
If you participate in surveys or provide feedback, the information you provide will be collected. This assists us in understanding user preferences and enhancing our services.
We take privacy seriously and handle all collected information in accordance with our Privacy Policy. If you have any questions or concerns about the information we collect, please contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

3. How We Use Your Information

At Sourcemerz, we are committed to using the information we collect responsibly and transparently. The data we gather serves various purposes aimed at providing and enhancing our business listing services. Here’s how we utilise the information we collect:

a. To Provide and Manage Services:

We use your personal information, including account details and business listing information, to create, manage, and facilitate our business listing services. This includes account authentication, personalised content delivery, and ensuring the accuracy of business listings.

b. Communication:

Your contact information is used for communication purposes. We may send you service-related messages, updates, and notifications. This communication ensures you stay informed about account activity, changes to our services, and relevant promotional offers.

c. Improvement of Services:

We analyse usage data, such as pages visited and features used, to understand how users interact with our platform. This information helps us identify areas for improvement, optimise user experience, and enhance the overall functionality of our business listing services.

d. Personalisation:

Using the information you provide, including location data and user preferences, we personalise content to better match your needs. This personalisation enhances your experience by delivering relevant business listings and targeted information.

e. Marketing and Promotions:

If you provide consent, we may use your contact information to send you marketing communications, promotional offers, and updates about our services. You can opt-out of these communications at any time.

f. Security and Fraud Prevention:

We use collected data to maintain the security of our platform and protect against fraudulent activities. This includes monitoring account activities, identifying suspicious behavior, and implementing security measures.

g. Analytics and Research:

Aggregate and anonymised data is used for analytics and research purposes. This helps us understand trends, user preferences, and areas for improvement. The insights gained from analytics contribute to the ongoing development of our services.

h. User Support:

Information provided during communication with our support team, including user-generated content and communication data, is used to address user queries, provide assistance, and improve our customer support services.

i. Compliance with Legal Requirements:

We may use your information to comply with applicable laws, respond to legal requests, and protect our rights or the rights of others.

j. Third-Party Integrations:

If you connect your account with third-party services, information from these integrations is used to enhance your experience and provide additional features.
We are committed to ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and security of the information we collect. If you have any questions or concerns about how your information is used, please contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

4. How We Share Your Information

At sourcemerz, we prioritise the protection and responsible handling of your information. We only share your data in specific circumstances to provide and enhance our business listing services. Here’s how we share your information:

a. Third-Party Service Providers:

We may share your information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in delivering our services. These providers include hosting services, analytics platforms, payment processors, and other entities that support the functionality of our platform.

b. Legal Requirements:

In certain situations, we may disclose your information in response to legal requests, court orders, or governmental regulations. We will only disclose the necessary information to comply with applicable laws.

c. Business Transactions:

If there is a merger, acquisition, or sale of all or a portion of our assets, your information may be transferred as part of the transaction. In such cases, we will notify you of the change and ensure the new entity adheres to this Privacy Policy.

d. User-Generated Content:

Any user-generated content you voluntarily submit, such as reviews, comments, or additional business information, may be publicly visible on our platform. Other users may access and interact with this content.

e. Aggregate and Anonymised Data:

We may share aggregate and anonymised data with third parties for analytics, research, and business improvement purposes. This data does not identify individual users.

f. Third-Party Integrations:

If you choose to connect your account with third-party services, information may be shared between our platform and these services. This enhances your experience by providing additional features and integrations.

g. Protection of Rights:

We may share information if we believe it is necessary to protect our rights, enforce our Terms of Service, or investigate potential violations of our policies.
h. With Your Consent:

We will seek your explicit consent before sharing your information in situations not covered by this Privacy Policy.

i. Publicly Shared Information:

Information you choose to make public, such as business listings and user-generated content, may be visible to other users and the general public.

j. Compliance with Data Protection Laws:

We ensure that any sharing of your information complies with applicable data protection laws, and we take steps to protect your privacy.
We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for their marketing purposes without your explicit consent.

If you have questions or concerns about how your information is shared, please contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

5. Cookies and Similar Technologies

At Sourcemerz, we use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience on our business listing platform. This section provides information about how we use these technologies, what types of cookies we employ, and how you can manage your cookie preferences.

a. What are Cookies:

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and provide a better user experience. Cookies may store information about your preferences, settings, and browsing behavior.
b. Types of Cookies We Use:

Essential Cookies:

These cookies are necessary for the basic functionality of our website. They enable you to navigate our platform, access secure areas, and use essential features.
Analytical/Performance Cookies:

These cookies help us analyze how users interact with our platform. They provide information about page visits, user engagement, and potential areas for improvement.
Functionality Cookies:

Functionality cookies enhance your experience by remembering your preferences and choices. For example, they may remember your language preference or region.
Targeting/Advertising Cookies:

These cookies are used to deliver targeted advertising based on your interests and online behavior. They may also limit the number of times you see an ad and help measure the effectiveness of advertising campaigns.

Third-Party Cookies:

Some cookies may be placed by third-party services integrated into our platform. These cookies are subject to the privacy policies of the respective third parties.
c. How We Use Cookies:

Improving User Experience:

Cookies help us provide a personalised and efficient user experience. They remember your preferences and settings, making your interactions with our platform smoother.
Analytics and Performance:

We use cookies to gather information about how users engage with our platform. This data helps us understand usage patterns and optimise our services.
Advertising:

Cookies assist in delivering targeted advertising that is relevant to your interests. This improves the effectiveness of our marketing efforts.

d. Managing Your Cookie Preferences:

Most web browsers allow you to control and block cookies through their settings. However, disabling certain cookies may impact the functionality of our platform.

You can manage your cookie preferences directly through your account settings or browser settings. Please refer to your browser’s help or settings menu for guidance.

e. Consent to Cookies:

By using our platform, you consent to the use of cookies and similar technologies as described in this policy. If you do not agree with the use of cookies, you may adjust your browser settings accordingly.
For any questions or concerns about our use of cookies, please contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

6. Security

At Sourcemerz, we prioritise the security and confidentiality of your information. This section outlines the measures we take to safeguard your data and protect it from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction.

a. Data Encryption:

We use industry-standard encryption protocols to secure the transmission of data between your device and our servers. This helps protect your information from interception during transit.

b. Secure Data Storage:

Your personal information is stored in secure databases with restricted access. We implement access controls and regularly review our storage practices to ensure the confidentiality of your data.

c. Authentication Mechanisms:

To prevent unauthorised access, we employ robust authentication mechanisms. This includes secure login processes, multi-factor authentication, and regular reviews of user access privileges.

d. Regular Security Audits:

We conduct regular security audits and assessments to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. This proactive approach helps us maintain a secure environment for your data.

e. Employee Training:

Our employees undergo training to ensure they understand and adhere to best practices in data security. This includes awareness of potential risks and the importance of safeguarding user information.

f. Incident Response:

In the event of a security incident, we have established response protocols to promptly address and mitigate any potential impact. We also notify affected users as required by applicable data protection laws.

g. Monitoring and Logging:

We continuously monitor our systems for unusual activities and maintain comprehensive logs. This monitoring helps us detect and respond to potential security threats in real-time.

h. Third-Party Security:

When we engage with third-party service providers, we ensure they adhere to high-security standards. This includes conducting security assessments and, when necessary, entering into agreements that outline data protection commitments.

i. User Responsibilities:

While we implement robust security measures, users also play a role in maintaining the security of their accounts. This includes choosing strong passwords, using unique login credentials, and promptly reporting any suspicious activities.

j. Compliance with Data Protection Laws:

We adhere to applicable data protection laws and regulations concerning the security and privacy of user data. Our practices align with industry standards and legal requirements.
Despite our efforts to maintain a secure platform, it’s essential for users to be cautious about sharing sensitive information online. If you have any security-related concerns or questions, please contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

Your trust is paramount, and we are committed to ensuring the security and integrity of your data.

7. Your Choices

At Sourcemerz, we believe in empowering users to make informed choices about their data. This section outlines the choices you have regarding the information you provide and how it is used on our business listing platform.

a. Account Settings:

You can review and update your account settings at any time. This includes preferences related to notifications, communications, and the visibility of certain information on your business listing.

b. Communication Preferences:

You have the option to manage your communication preferences. This includes choosing the types of communications you wish to receive from us, such as newsletters, promotional offers, and updates.

c. Cookie Preferences:

You can manage your cookie preferences through your account settings or web browser. Adjusting your cookie settings allows you to control the types of cookies used on our platform.

d. User-Generated Content:

If you have contributed user-generated content, such as reviews or comments, you may have the option to edit or delete that content. Check the relevant sections of our platform for these options.

e. Access to Your Information:

You have the right to access the personal information we hold about you. You can request a copy of your data, and we will provide it in a commonly used electronic format, subject to verification.

f. Data Deletion:

If you no longer wish to use our platform, you can request the deletion of your account and associated data. Please note that certain information may be retained for legal or operational reasons.

g. Marketing Communications:

You can opt out of receiving marketing communications from us by following the unsubscribe instructions provided in the communication or by adjusting your communication preferences in your account settings.

h. Third-Party Integrations:

If you have connected your account to third-party services, you can manage those integrations through your account settings. This includes controlling the data shared between our platform and third-party services.

i. Privacy Settings:

Check and adjust your privacy settings to control the visibility of your information on our platform. This may include business details, contact information, and user-generated content.

j. Contacting Us:

If you have specific questions about your choices or would like assistance in managing your preferences, you can contact us at info@sourcemerz.com. We are here to help you make informed decisions about your data.

Your choices are important to us, and we are committed to providing you with the tools and information needed to manage your privacy preferences effectively. We respect your autonomy in controlling how your information is used and shared on our platform.

8. Children’s Privacy

Protecting the privacy of children is a priority at Sourcemerz. This section outlines our approach to handling personal information from children and our commitment to complying with relevant privacy laws, including the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

a. Age Requirement:

Our services are intended for users who are at least 18 years old. We do not knowingly collect or solicit personal information from individuals below this age threshold.

b. Parental Consent:

In the event that we learn a user is under the specified age, we will make reasonable efforts to obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting any personal information from that user. If consent cannot be obtained, we will promptly delete any such information.

c. Information Collected from Children:

We may collect certain information from children for the purpose of providing age-appropriate content, services, or features. This information is collected with the consent of a parent or guardian, and it is handled in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

d. Parental Access and Control:

Parents or legal guardians who have provided consent for their child’s use of our platform have the right to access, review, or delete the personal information associated with their child’s account. They can exercise these rights by contacting us at info@sourcemerz.com.

e. Educational Content:

If our platform includes educational content or services designed for children, we take additional measures to ensure the privacy and safety of young users. This may include age-appropriate explanations of privacy practices.

f. Notification of Changes:

If there are changes to our information practices related to children, including changes to the types of information collected or the way it is used, we will notify parents or legal guardians by email and obtain consent when required.

g. Security Measures:

We implement security measures to protect the personal information of children, including encryption, access controls, and regular security assessments.
h. Contact Information for Parents:

Parents or legal guardians who have questions or concerns about the privacy practices related to their child’s use of our platform can contact us at info@sourcemerz.com

Our commitment to children’s privacy reflects our dedication to providing a safe and secure online environment for all users. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

9. Changes to This Privacy Policy

At Sourcemerz, we are committed to keeping you informed about how your information is handled. This section explains our approach to updating and modifying our Privacy Policy.

a. Notification of Changes:

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our information practices, legal requirements, or the features of our platform. When we make significant changes, we will notify you through prominent notices on our website or via other communication channels.

b. Reviewing Policy Revisions:

We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy regularly to stay informed about how we collect, use, and protect your information. The “Last Updated” date at the bottom of this policy indicates when the latest changes were made.

c. Your Continued Use:

By continuing to use our platform after any changes to this Privacy Policy, you signify your acceptance of the revised terms. If you do not agree with the terms of the updated policy, please refrain from using our services.

d. Material Changes and Consent:

In the event of material changes to our Privacy Policy that require your consent under applicable laws, we will seek your explicit consent before implementing those changes.

e. How to Contact Us:

If you have questions or concerns about the changes to this Privacy Policy, or if you need assistance in understanding how the updates may impact you, feel free to contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

f. Archive of Previous Versions:

We maintain an archive of previous versions of our Privacy Policy. If you wish to review a specific version, please contact us, and we will provide it upon request.
By using our platform, you agree to the terms outlined in the latest version of our Privacy Policy. We appreciate your trust, and we are committed to transparently communicating any changes that may affect your privacy rights.

10. Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us at info@sourcemerz.com.

This Privacy Policy is effective as of 15.12.2023.