Debt Scan Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy outlines how Debt Scan ("we", "our", or "us") handles personal information of clients and visitors to our services, in compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013 (POPIA) and other applicable laws in South Africa. We are committed to protecting the privacy of our clients and ensuring the responsible handling of personal information in our possession.

1. Information Collection

We collect personal information necessary to provide debt counseling and related financial services. The types of personal information we may collect include:

  • Personal Identification Information: Name, ID number, date of birth, and contact details.
  • Financial Information: Bank details, income, expenses, credit history, debt information, and other financial information.
  • Demographic Information: Marital status, dependents, and employment details.
  • Communication Records: Email, SMS, or other records related to our interactions with you.

2. Purpose of Data Collection

We collect and process personal information for the following purposes:

  • To provide debt counseling and financial advice.
  • To assess your financial situation, manage your debt review process, and communicate with creditors.
  • To comply with regulatory requirements and safeguard our legal rights.
  • To improve our services and provide customized financial solutions.

3. Consent

By engaging our services, you consent to our collection, use, processing, and sharing of your personal information as outlined in this Privacy Policy. Where applicable, we may seek additional consent for specific processing activities as required by law.

4. Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

We will only use your personal information for the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. We may share your information with:

  • Financial institutions and creditors for the purpose of negotiating debt arrangements.
  • Regulatory authorities as required by law.
  • Third-party service providers who assist us with data processing, technology support, and other business services (subject to confidentiality agreements).

5. Data Security

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical measures to safeguard your personal information against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. Our data security practices are in line with industry standards to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the information we hold.

6. Retention of Personal Information

We retain personal information for as long as it is necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. Once it is no longer required, we will securely delete or anonymize the information.

7. Data Subject Rights

Under POPIA, you have the right to:

  • Access: Request access to the personal information we hold about you.
  • Correction: Request correction or update of your personal information.
  • Deletion: Request the deletion of your personal information if it is no longer needed for the purposes for which it was collected.
  • Objection: Object to the processing of your personal information in certain circumstances.

To exercise these rights, please contact us at [Contact Information].

8. Cross-Border Transfers

If we transfer your personal information to a third party outside of South Africa, we will ensure that the recipient provides an adequate level of protection for your personal information or that the transfer complies with applicable legal requirements.

9. Marketing Communications

We may, with your consent, send you marketing communications about our services. You have the right to opt-out of receiving such communications at any time.

10. Changes to the Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Any updates will be posted on our website, and we encourage you to review this Policy periodically.

11. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us at:

  • Email: admin@debtscan.co.za
  • Phone: +27 79 591 3308
  • Address: Sir Lowry Road, The Palms, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915

Effective Date: 1-June-2021

This Privacy Policy is designed to meet South African legal requirements and reflects our commitment to responsible data handling in all debt counseling activities.