1. Introduction
Effective Date: April 23, 2025
Pondoland Times (“we”, “us” or “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you use our website (https://pondolandtimes.co.za) and our mobile app.
By using our services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.
2. Information We Collect
a) Information You Provide
We collect personal data that you voluntarily provide, such as:
- Name and email address (e.g., for newsletter signups or contact forms)
- Media uploads and comments
- App contact or feedback forms
b) Information Collected Automatically
We also collect data automatically, including:
- Cookies and usage statistics
- Device and browser information
- App performance data and diagnostic logs
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide and improve our website and mobile app
- Send newsletters and promotional content (with consent)
- Monitor usage for analytics and troubleshooting
- Manage user accounts, subscriptions, and comments
4. Cookies and Tracking
We use cookies to enhance your experience, support analytics, and enable personalized content. Users will see a consent popup on first visit, as required by Google Play’s User Data Policy.
5. Third-Party Services
We integrate with third-party platforms including:
- Google Play Services
- Google Analytics for Firebase
Please refer to their privacy policies for more information.
6. Data Sharing
We may share data:
- With service providers for hosting, analytics, and communication
- To comply with legal obligations
- With your explicit consent
7. Data Retention
We retain data for the following durations:
- Comments and profiles: indefinitely unless requested otherwise
- Newsletter subscribers: until unsubscribed
- App usage data: while in use or until deletion is requested
8. Your Rights
You may:
- Request access or corrections to your data
- Delete your data or account
- Unsubscribe from newsletters
- Manage cookie and app permissions via your device
9. Children’s Privacy
Our services are not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If we find such data, we delete it immediately.
10. Data Security
We implement security measures including encryption and access controls. However, no method is 100% secure, and users share information at their own risk.
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page and take immediate effect.
12. Contact Us
For questions, contact us at:
📧 info@pondolandtimes.co.za
📍 129 Mayaba Street, Bizana, Eastern Cape, South Africa
📞 +27 73 861 8912
