CERTS Educational Services, Inc. ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy applies to your use of CERTS Microcredentials (the "App") across all platforms, including mobile applications (Android and iOS), desktop applications (Windows, macOS, Linux), and any web-based versions or services associated with the App (collectively, the "Service").
By downloading, installing, accessing, or using the Service on any device or platform, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.
If you do not agree with this Policy, please do not access or use the Service.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information depending on how you use the Service:
a. Personal Information
- Information You Provide: Name, email address, phone number, account credentials, profile details, or other information you submit when creating an account, contacting support, submitting feedback, or using in-app features.
- Payment Information: For purchases made within the Service, we use third-party payment processors (e.g., Google Play, Apple App Store, Stripe, PayPal). We do not store full credit card details on our servers.
b. Non-Personal and Device Information
- Device and System Data: Device type, model, operating system (Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux), unique device identifiers (e.g., UDID, IDFA, GAID, MAC address), IP address, browser type, language settings, and network information.
- Usage Data: Features accessed, session duration, click paths, crash logs, performance data, and analytics collected via tools such as Google Analytics, Firebase, Sentry, or platform-specific analytics (e.g., Apple App Analytics, Microsoft App Center).
- Location Data: If you enable location services (on mobile or desktop with permission), we may collect approximate or precise location to provide relevant features. You can disable this in your device or browser settings.
c. Information from Third Parties
We may receive data from app stores (Google Play, Apple App Store, Microsoft Store), distribution platforms (Steam, Epic Games Store), social login providers (Google, Apple, Facebook), or analytics and advertising partners.
We do not collect sensitive personal data (e.g., health, race, religion, political opinions) unless explicitly required for a core feature and with your informed consent.
2. How We Use Your Information
Your information is used to:
- Provide, operate, and maintain the Service across all platforms.
- Process transactions and send receipts or confirmations.
- Personalize your experience (e.g., content recommendations, UI preferences).
- Improve performance, fix bugs, and develop new features using analytics and crash reports.
- Send service updates, security alerts, or promotional communications (with opt-in consent; you may unsubscribe anytime).
- Detect, prevent, and address fraud, abuse, or security risks.
- Comply with legal obligations, respond to lawful requests, or protect our rights.
3. How We Share Your Information
We do not sell your personal information. We may share it only in these cases:
- Service Providers: With trusted vendors (e.g., cloud hosting like AWS or Azure, analytics tools, payment processors, email services) under strict confidentiality.
- Legal Compliance: When required by law, court order, or to protect safety, rights, or property.
- Business Transfers: In case of merger, acquisition, or asset sale.
- Aggregated/Anonymized Data: For research, marketing, or industry trends.
If the Service displays ads, we may use partners like Google AdMob, Apple Advertising, or desktop ad networks. You can limit ad tracking via platform settings:
- iOS: Settings > Privacy > Advertising > Limit Ad Tracking
- Android: Settings > Google > Ads > Opt out of Ads Personalization
- Windows/macOS: Browser or system privacy settings
4. Data Storage and Security
- Storage: Data is securely stored on servers in [specify region, e.g., the United States, EU, or globally distributed]. We retain data only as long as needed for operational or legal purposes.
- Security: We implement encryption (TLS/SSL), access controls, firewalls, and regular security audits. However, no system is 100% secure.
- International Data Transfers: Your data may be processed in countries outside your residence. We ensure compliance with applicable laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, LGPD) using safeguards like Standard Contractual Clauses.
5. Your Privacy Choices and Rights
- Access & Update: View or edit your data in account settings or by contacting us.
- Delete Data: Request account and data deletion via the Service or email. We process within 30 days (subject to legal retention).
- Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing emails, disable push notifications, or turn off location/ad tracking in device settings.
- Cookies & Trackers: On web versions, manage preferences via browser settings or our cookie banner.
6. Third-Party Services and Links
The Service may link to external websites, plugins, or services (e.g., social media, payment gateways). We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Review their policies separately.
7. Updates to This Privacy Policy
We may revise this Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you via:
- In-app or in-software notification
- Email (if provided)
- Website or service banner
Continued use after changes means you accept the updated Policy. Check this page regularly.