Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 21/03/2024
Last Updated: 08/05/2025

Welcome to Cottlink , a platform that connects users with businesses and service providers across Kenya. Your privacy is important to us, and this Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or use our services.

1. Information We Collect

We collect the following information from users:

a. Account Information

• Name

• Email address

• Phone number

• Location (County/Town)

• Business or service details (for service providers)

• Password (encrypted)

b. Google Sign-In

When you choose to sign in using Google, we collect your:

• Name

• Email address

• Profile picture
  This is used solely for account creation and login authentication. We do not access your Google password or contact list.

c. Location Data

We may collect or infer your location to help connect you with nearby services.

d. User-Generated Content

When you submit listings, leave reviews, upload photos, or interact with the platform, we collect and store that information.

e. Cookies & Tracking

We use cookies to:

• Remember login sessions

• Track website usage via tools like Google Analytics

• Serve relevant ads and prevent spam

You can control cookies via your browser settings.

2. Why We Collect Your Data

We use the data collected to:

• Create and manage your account

• Connect you with relevant services or customers

• Display accurate and location-specific results

• Improve platform features and user experience

• Ensure platform safety and detect fraud

• Comply with legal obligations

3. How We Share Your Data

We do not sell your personal data.

We may share your data with:

• Trusted service providers (e.g., cloud hosting, analytics)

• Law enforcement or government bodies (only if legally required)

• Other users (e.g., your profile info shown on service listings)

All third parties are required to maintain strict confidentiality.

4. How We Protect Your Data

We take data protection seriously and use:

• SSL encryption for all data transfers

• Secure servers and firewalls

• Access controls to restrict unauthorized data access

While we do our best, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure.

5. How Long We Keep Your Data

• Listings, profiles, and comments are stored indefinitely unless removed by the user.

• If you delete your account, your personal data will be erased except where retention is required for legal or business purposes.

6. Your Rights

You can:

• View, update, or delete your account info at any time

• Request an export of your personal data

• Request the deletion of your personal data

• Opt out of email communication (except essential ones)

To make a request, email us at support@cottlink.co.ke.

7. Children’s Privacy

Cottlink does not knowingly collect or allow registration for anyone under the age of 18. If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided us personal data, contact us immediately.

8. Embedded Content & External Links

Our platform may include embedded content (e.g., videos, maps) and links to external websites. These websites may collect data about you, use cookies, or monitor your interactions. We are not responsible for their privacy practices.

9. Google API Disclosure (OAuth)

If you use Google Sign-In, we collect your name, email, and profile image to streamline account login.
We do not access your emails, contacts, or other private Google data.

This use complies with Google API Services User Data Policy, including the Limited Use requirements.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We’ll notify you of significant changes by email or a notice on the website. Continued use of the site implies your acceptance of the revised policy.

11. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or your data rights, please contact:
📧 support@cottlink.co.ke
🌐 https://cottlink.co.ke

Thank you for trusting Cottlink.
Your privacy and data security matter to us.