1. INTRODUCTION
At Philantify, we take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information when you use our platform. By accessing or using Philantify, you agree to the terms set forth in this policy. If you do not agree with any aspect of this policy, please discontinue use of our services immediately.
1.1 Who We Are
Philantify is a philanthropic digital platform operated by the African Leadership and Capability Building Organization LTD/GTE. We connect philanthropists, corporate sponsors, community members, volunteers, delivery partners, and other stakeholders who seek to fund, support, or participate in impact related causes. Our platform is currently available in Africa, with plans to expand globally.
1.2 Purpose of This Privacy Policy
The purpose of this Privacy Policy is to provide a clear, transparent, and legally compliant explanation of:
- What personal information we collect and why we collect it.
- How we process and use your information in connection with our services.
- Who we share your information with, including third-party service providers.
- Your rights and choices regarding your data.
- Our security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access or misuse.
- How we comply with international privacy laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and other applicable data protection laws.
1.3 Scope of This Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy applies to:
- All users of Philantify's website, mobile application, and associated services.
- All stakeholders, including donors, philanthropist, sponsors, delivery partners, volunteers, community members, and beneficiaries.
- All individuals whose data is processed by Philantify in any form, including those who communicate with us, sign up for updates, or participate in surveys.
This Privacy Policy does not apply to:
- Third-party websites or services that we do not control, even if linked from Philantify. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any external platforms you interact with.
- Information that has been fully anonymized and is no longer personally identifiable.
1.4 Legal Compliance & Your Rights
Philantify operates in multiple jurisdictions, and we adhere to the strictest international privacy standards, including but not limited to:
- GDPR (EU & UK) – Ensuring users in the European Economic Area (EEA) have rights to data access, correction, and deletion.
- African Data Protection Laws – Complying with regional regulations, such as Nigeria's NDPR, Kenya's Data Protection Act, and South Africa's POPIA.
Users have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict processing of their data at any time. More details on your rights are outlined in Section 8 (User Rights & Data Control).
1.5 Future Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect legal, regulatory, or operational changes.
- If the changes materially impact your rights or how we process your personal data, we will provide appropriate notice through email, in-app notifications, or our website.
- For minor updates that do not affect your rights, we may update the policy without prior notification.
- The date of the last update will always be visible at the top of this policy.
- Continued use of Philantify's services after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
1.6 Contacting Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, you may contact us:
📧 Email: privacy@philantify.com
📞 Phone: +234 913 969 4441
📍 Address:
Lagos, Nigeria
Plot 9, Gbagada Industrial Scheme, beside UPS, Gbagada-Oworonshoki Expressway, Lagos.
Mauritius Office
H21, Home Scene Building, Healthscape, Forbach, Mauritius
2. INFORMATION WE COLLECT
At Philantify, we collect and process different types of personal and non-personal data to operate effectively, enhance user experience, and comply with legal requirements. This section explains what information we collect, why we collect it, and how it is obtained.
2.1 Categories of Information We Collect
We collect three main categories of data:
A. Personal Information (Directly Provided by Users)
This includes information you voluntarily provide when you register, donate, sponsor a cause, or otherwise interact with our platform. It may include:
- Full Name (for identification and communication)
- Email Address (for account security, updates, and communications)
- Phone Number (for verification and support purposes)
- Physical Address (if required for fund disbursement or legal compliance)
- Profile Information (e.g., bio, preferences, areas of interest)
- Financial Details (e.g., bank account number or payment card details for donations or fund disbursement)
- Identity Verification Data (e.g., government-issued ID, tax identification number, or proof of business registration, only when required for fraud prevention or regulatory compliance)
B. Automatically Collected Information (Device & Usage Data)
When you use Philantify, we automatically collect certain technical and usage data to improve security and user experience. This may include:
- IP Address (to detect location-based restrictions, fraud prevention)
- Device Information (e.g., device type, operating system, browser type)
- Log Data (e.g., login timestamps, access logs)
- Usage Data (e.g., pages visited, time spent on the platform, interactions)
- Cookies & Tracking Data (See Section 6 - Cookies & Tracking for more details)
C. Information from Third-Party Sources
We may receive additional data about you from third-party sources, such as:
- Corporate Sponsors & Donation Partners (if they contribute on your behalf)
- Third-Party Payment Processors (e.g., transaction confirmations, fraud alerts)
- Public Databases & Social Media (only when users interact with Philantify through linked accounts)
2.2 Why We Collect Your Data
We only collect data for specific and legitimate purposes, including:
- To Provide Our Services:
- Enabling donations, sponsorships, and partnerships
- Processing transactions securely
- To Improve User Experience:
- Customizing content and recommendations
- Enhancing platform functionality and ease of use
- For Security & Fraud Prevention:
- Detecting suspicious activity and preventing scams
- Complying with legal obligations and responding to law enforcement requests
- To Communicate with You:
- Sending account-related notifications
- Providing updates on causes you support
- Offering optional promotional content (users can opt-out anytime)
3. HOW WE COLLECT INFORMATION
Philantify collects information through three primary methods: direct input from users, automated technologies, and third-party sources. This section outlines the specific ways we obtain data while ensuring transparency and compliance with privacy laws.
3.1 Directly from Users
We collect personal information when users voluntarily provide it while interacting with our platform. This includes:
A. Account Registration & Profile Creation
- When you create an account, we collect name, email, phone number, and password.
- If applicable, additional details such as organization name, role, and mission for corporate sponsors or NGOs.
B. Donations & Financial Transactions
- When you make a donation, sponsor a cause, or receive funds, we collect payment details (processed through third-party payment gateways).
- Transaction history and receipts are stored for compliance with tax and financial regulations.
C. User-Initiated Communications
- When you contact customer support or participate in forums, surveys, or feedback requests, we collect message content and contact details.
- Emails and live chat interactions may be recorded for quality assurance and fraud prevention.
D. Participation in Programs & Events
- Users signing up for Philantify-hosted events, volunteering programs, or funding initiatives may provide event-related personal data.
3.2 Automatically Through Technology
Philantify automatically collects certain data when users interact with the platform, helping us enhance security, analyze trends, and optimize user experience. This includes:
A. Device & Technical Data
- IP Address (to determine approximate location and prevent fraudulent activities)
- Browser Type & Version (to optimize website performance)
- Operating System & Device Type (for compatibility adjustments)
B. Usage & Log Data
- Time and date of access (for security audits)
- Pages visited, links clicked, session duration (for analytics and content improvement)
- Login attempts and account changes (for fraud detection)
C. Cookies & Tracking Technologies
- Cookies help store user preferences, enable faster logins, and improve experience (see Section 6 – Cookies & Tracking for details)
- Users can disable non-essential cookies at any time
3.3 From Third-Party Sources
We may receive additional data from third-party partners, but only where lawful and relevant to our services. These sources include:
A. Payment & Financial Institutions
- When you donate, receive funds, or make transactions, payment providers share transaction verification details (but not full financial information)
B. Corporate Sponsors & Funding Partners
- If a corporate sponsor donates on your behalf, we may receive limited user details for tax or compliance reporting
C. Social Media & External Platforms
- If users link their social media accounts, we may collect basic public profile information (name, profile picture) only with explicit consent
- Users can disconnect external accounts at any time
D. Publicly Available Databases & Compliance Checks
- To prevent fraud and verify nonprofit legitimacy, we may access public charity registries or sanction lists
- This applies only to organizations or high-value transactions, not individual users
4. HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION
Philantify collects and processes your personal information only for legitimate, specific, and lawful purposes. We are committed to transparency and compliance with global data protection laws, including GDPR, and African data protection regulations.
4.1 Purposes of Data Processing
We use the information we collect for the following core purposes:
A. Providing & Improving Our Services
- To facilitate donations, sponsorships, and fund distributions securely
- To verify identity and eligibility for funding initiatives
- To personalize the platform based on user preferences and interests
- To enhance customer support and issue resolution
B. Security, Fraud Prevention & Compliance
- To authenticate user identity and prevent unauthorized access
- To detect fraudulent transactions, abuse, and violations of our Terms of Service
- To comply with legal obligations, tax reporting, and anti-money laundering regulations
- To respond to law enforcement requests where legally required
C. Communications & Engagement
- To send transaction confirmations, donation receipts, and service-related updates
- To provide cause-related updates, newsletters, and impact reports (only if you opt-in)
- To send marketing or promotional communications (users can opt-out at any time)
D. Research & Analytics
- To analyze user behavior, platform trends, and service effectiveness
- To develop new features and improve platform accessibility
- To conduct internal audits and system performance evaluations
4.2 Legal Basis for Processing (For GDPR Compliance)
For users covered under GDPR (EU/UK), we rely on the following legal grounds to process your data:
Purpose | Legal Basis |
---|---|
Providing platform services | Contractual necessity |
Processing transactions | Contractual necessity |
Security & fraud prevention | Legitimate interest & legal obligation |
Marketing & promotional updates | Consent (users must opt-in) |
Compliance with legal obligations | Legal obligation |
Improving user experience & analytics | Legitimate interest |
5. DATA SHARING & THIRD-PARTY DISCLOSURES
Philantify does not sell, rent, or trade user data. However, we may share certain information with trusted third parties when necessary for providing our services, legal compliance, fraud prevention, or user-authorized purposes.
5.1 Who We Share Your Data With & Why
A. Service Providers & Partners
We share user data with trusted third-party vendors that help us provide core services, including:
Category | Purpose of Data Sharing |
---|---|
Payment Processors | To securely process transactions (e.g., Stripe, Paystack) |
Cloud Hosting & Security Providers | To store data securely and prevent cyber threats |
Fraud Prevention & Compliance Services | To verify identity and prevent financial crime |
Customer Support Platforms | To manage support requests and user inquiries |
Analytics & Performance Tools | To improve user experience and service efficiency |
B. Corporate Sponsors & Donation Partners
If you receive funding or support through corporate sponsors, philanthropic organizations, or government grants, we may share limited user information with:
- The entity funding your cause (e.g., confirmation of receipt, reporting impact)
- Tax authorities (where required for financial compliance)
C. Legal Compliance & Law Enforcement
We may disclose personal data if legally required to:
- Respond to subpoenas, legal claims, or regulatory investigations
- Enforce our Terms of Service or protect Philantify from fraud or misuse
- Prevent or investigate security threats, abuse, or illegal activities
6. COOKIES & TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES
Philantify uses cookies, tracking pixels, and similar technologies to enhance user experience, analyze platform performance, and ensure security. This section explains what these technologies are, why we use them, and how users can manage their preferences.
6.1 What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They help remember user preferences, track activity, and improve website functionality.
We also use tracking pixels and scripts (like Google Analytics and Meta Pixel) to analyze site traffic and user behavior.
6.2 Types of Cookies & Tracking Technologies We Use
Type of Cookie | Purpose | User Control |
---|---|---|
Essential Cookies | Required for platform functionality (e.g., login, transactions) | Cannot be disabled |
Performance & Analytics Cookies | Measure website traffic, improve performance, and fix errors | Users can opt out |
Marketing & Advertising Cookies | Personalize ads and recommendations | Users must opt-in |
Security & Fraud Prevention Cookies | Detect suspicious activity and unauthorized logins | Cannot be disabled for security reasons |
7. DATA SECURITY & PROTECTION
At Philantify, we take data security seriously and implement industry-standard measures to protect user information from unauthorized access, loss, theft, or misuse. This section outlines how we protect your data, our security protocols, and what happens in the event of a data breach.
7.1 How We Protect Your Data
We use a combination of technical, administrative, and physical security measures to safeguard personal data, including:
A. Encryption & Secure Storage
- All user data is encrypted in transit (SSL/TLS) and at rest (AES-256 encryption)
- Sensitive financial information (such as payment details) is never stored directly on our servers. Instead, we use PCI-DSS-compliant payment processors
B. Access Control & Authentication
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is required for sensitive transactions
- Strict role-based access control (RBAC) ensures that only authorized personnel can access personal data
- Users are encouraged to use strong passwords and update them regularly
C. Regular Security Audits & Monitoring
- We conduct regular penetration testing & security assessments
- We use intrusion detection systems (IDS) and automated monitoring to detect unauthorized access
7.2 How We Handle Data Breaches
While we take every reasonable step to protect user data, no system is 100% immune to breaches. In the unlikely event of a security breach, Philantify follows a strict Data Breach Response Plan:
A. Immediate Investigation
- Our security team investigates all suspected breaches within 24 hours
- Affected systems are isolated and secured to prevent further access
8. USER RIGHTS & DATA CONTROL
Philantify believes in transparency and user control over personal data. We comply with global privacy laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and African data protection regulations. This section explains your rights, how you can manage your data, and the steps to exercise your rights.
8.1 Your Data Rights
Depending on your location and applicable privacy laws, you may have the following rights:
User Right | Description |
---|---|
Right to Access (GDPR) | Request a copy of your personal data stored by Philantify |
Right to Correction (GDPR) | Update or correct inaccurate or incomplete information |
Right to Deletion ("Right to Be Forgotten") (GDPR) | Request permanent deletion of your data, subject to legal or operational requirements |
Right to Restrict Processing (GDPR) | Request temporary restriction on the processing of your data |
Right to Object (GDPR) | Opt out of data processing for marketing or other purposes |
Right to Data Portability (GDPR) | Request a machine-readable copy of your personal data |
Right to Withdraw Consent (GDPR) | Revoke previously given consent for data collection and marketing |
9. DATA RETENTION & DELETION POLICY
Philantify retains user data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy. This section explains how long we keep your data, when we delete it, and your options for requesting deletion.
9.1 How Long We Retain Your Data
We apply different retention periods depending on the type of data and legal obligations:
Data Type | Retention Period | Reason |
---|---|---|
Account Information | Until user deletes their account | User control |
Transaction & Donation Data | 7 years from the date of transaction | Tax & legal compliance |
Identity Verification Data | 3 years after account closure | Fraud prevention |
Marketing Preferences | Until user opts out | User control |
Technical & Analytics Data | 2 years, anonymized where possible | Platform improvement |
Legal Compliance Data | As required by applicable law | Legal obligations |
10. INTERNATIONAL DATA TRANSFERS
Philantify operates globally, meaning your personal data may be transferred, stored, or processed outside your country. We ensure that all international data transfers comply with applicable privacy laws, including GDPR, and African data protection regulations.
10.1 Why We Transfer Data Internationally
We may transfer data outside your country for the following legitimate purposes:
- Cloud Storage & Hosting – Our servers may be located in different countries
- Third-Party Service Providers – Payment processors, security services, and analytics providers may operate globally
- Corporate Sponsorships & Partnerships – If a sponsor or funding entity is in another country, limited data may be shared as required
- Fraud Prevention & Security Monitoring – Data may be processed in different jurisdictions for security purposes
11. CHILDREN'S PRIVACY
Philantify is not intended for children under the age of 16 and does not knowingly collect or process personal data from minors without verifiable parental or guardian consent.
11.1 Minimum Age Requirements
To comply with international privacy laws, Philantify enforces the following minimum age requirements:
Region | Minimum Age for Consent |
---|---|
European Union (GDPR-K) | 16 years old |
United States (COPPA) | 13 years old |
Africa (NDPR, POPIA, DPA) | Varies (typically 13-16 years) |
12. THIRD-PARTY LINKS & SERVICES
Philantify may contain links to third-party websites, applications, or services. While we strive to partner with trusted service providers, we do not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the privacy practices of third-party services.
13. CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY
Philantify may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in legal requirements, industry standards, platform features, or data processing practices.
13.1 When & Why We Update This Policy
We may revise this Privacy Policy due to:
- New laws or regulations that require changes to our data practices
- Changes in our platform (e.g., new features, payment methods, or partnerships)
- Security updates to improve data protection
- Feedback from users or regulators requiring policy clarification
14. CONTACT INFORMATION
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, your personal data, or your rights, you can contact Philantify's Data Protection Team using the details below:
📧 Email: privacy@philantify.com
📞 Phone: +234 913 969 4441
📍 Address:
Lagos, Nigeria
Plot 9, Gbagada Industrial Scheme, beside UPS, Gbagada-Oworonshoki Expressway, Lagos.
Mauritius Office
H21, Home Scene Building, Healthscape, Forbach, Mauritius