Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Elethu ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and share information when you use the Elethu mobile application and website (collectively, the "Services").

By using our Services, you consent to the collection and use of your personal information as described in this Policy. This Policy complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA) and applicable South African data protection laws.

2. Information We Collect

• Account Information: When you register, we collect your name, email address, phone number, and profile photo.
• Financial Data: We collect transaction records, contribution amounts, payout history, and wallet balances associated with your stokvels.
• Communication Data: Messages sent within stokvel group chats are stored to provide the chat functionality.
• Device Information: We collect device identifiers, operating system information, and app usage data to improve performance and troubleshoot issues.
• Location Data: We do not collect precise location data without your explicit consent.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide, maintain, and improve the Elethu Services
• Process stokvel contributions and payouts
• Send transaction notifications and app updates
• Verify your identity and prevent fraud
• Comply with our legal obligations under POPIA and other applicable laws
• Respond to your support requests and communications

4. Information Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties. We may share information with:

• Payment processors to facilitate transactions within the app
• Service providers who assist us in operating the platform (e.g., cloud hosting, analytics)
• Regulatory authorities when required by law or court order
• Stokvel members with whom you have joined a savings group (limited to relevant group information)

All third-party service providers are contractually required to protect your information in accordance with this Policy and applicable law.

5. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures including encryption in transit (TLS/SSL), encrypted storage of sensitive data, and access controls to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide our Services. You may request deletion of your account and associated data by contacting us. Certain records may be retained for longer periods where required by law.

7. Your Rights Under POPIA

You have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal obligations)
• Object to the processing of your information
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@elethu.co.za.

8. Cookies and Analytics

Our website uses essential cookies for functionality and analytics cookies (with your consent) to understand how visitors use our site. You may disable cookies through your browser settings, though this may affect certain features.

9. Children's Privacy

Our Services are not directed at persons under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors. If you believe a minor has provided us with their information, please contact us immediately.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes via the app or email. Continued use of our Services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Policy.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights, please contact: