1. Introduction
At Riga Student Vibe, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring your personal information is handled responsibly. This Privacy Policy outlines the types of information we collect, how we use and protect it, and your rights as a user of our website and services. By accessing or using our services, you agree to the terms and practices described in this policy. If you do not agree with this policy, please refrain from using our services.
2. Information We Collect
We collect personal information to provide, improve, and enhance our services. The information we gather falls into the following categories:
2.1. Personal Details
- Name, email address, phone number, date of birth, and other contact details you provide during sign-up, inquiries, or participation in events.
- Emergency contact information, if required for specific events or housing arrangements.
2.2. Housing Preferences
- Information related to your accommodation needs, such as room type, budget, location preferences, and move-in dates.
- Rental agreements and correspondence with landlords if we assist in securing housing.
2.3. Event Participation Data
- Details collected during registration for events, such as dietary restrictions, preferences, and attendance history.
- Photos or videos taken at events, which may include identifiable individuals (with prior consent).
2.4. Payment Information
- Payment details required for housing deposits, event fees, or other transactions, processed securely via third-party payment platforms.
2.5. Website Usage Data
- Technical information such as IP addresses, browser types, operating systems, and browsing behavior (e.g., pages visited, time spent on the site) collected through cookies and analytics tools.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your personal data to:
- Provide core services, including housing assistance, event organization, and community engagement.
- Process payments, housing deposits, and event fees securely.
- Communicate with you about events, updates, and other relevant information.
- Improve our website functionality and enhance the user experience.
- Analyze usage patterns to refine our services and content offerings.
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
4. How We Protect Your Information
We implement industry-standard security measures to ensure your data is protected:
- Encryption: All sensitive information, such as payment details, is encrypted during transmission.
- Access Controls: Only authorized personnel have access to personal data, with strict controls in place.
- Data Minimization: We collect only the information necessary for our services and retain it for a limited period.
- Regular Audits: Security systems and protocols are routinely reviewed to identify and address vulnerabilities.
5. Sharing Your Information
We do not sell your personal information to third parties. However, your data may be shared under the following circumstances:
5.1. Service Providers
- Landlords, housing agents, or property managers to facilitate accommodation arrangements.
- Event partners and vendors to organize and execute events effectively.
5.2. Legal Obligations
- When required to comply with legal processes, court orders, or government requests.
5.3. Consent-Based Sharing
- With your explicit consent, such as when opting into a specific promotion or partnership.
6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. Cookies are small files stored on your device that help us understand user behavior and improve functionality.
6.1. Types of Cookies Used
- Essential Cookies: Necessary for core website functionality.
- Performance Cookies: Track site usage to improve performance.
- Marketing Cookies: Used for targeted advertisements and promotions.
6.2. Managing Cookies
You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings. Please note that disabling cookies may limit certain features on our website.
7. Your Rights
You have the following rights regarding your personal information:
- Access: Request a copy of the personal data we hold about you.
- Correction: Request corrections to any inaccurate or incomplete information.
- Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information, subject to legal retention requirements.
- Restriction: Limit how we process your personal data under specific conditions.
- Portability: Request transfer of your data to another service provider.
- Withdraw Consent: Withdraw consent for data processing where applicable.
To exercise these rights, contact us at [Insert Email Address].
8. Retention of Information
We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or comply with legal obligations. Once the data is no longer required, it is securely deleted or anonymized.
9. Third-Party Services
Our website and services may include links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites and encourage you to review their policies.
10. Children’s Privacy
Our services are not intended for children under the age of 16. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children without parental consent.
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices, services, or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on this page with the "Last Updated" date, and significant changes will be communicated via email or site notifications.
12. Disclaimer
Riga Vibes acts as a community platform to connect students with accommodation options and helpful resources. Please note:
- Responsibility of the Lessor: All rental agreements are strictly between the tenant (you) and the lessor (landlord). The lessor is fully responsible for the terms, conditions, and maintenance of the property as outlined in your contract.
- Riga Vibes' Role: While we assist by offering contacts to trusted landlords and providing guidance, we are not a party to your rental contract and cannot be held responsible for any issues that arise between you and the lessor.
- Our Team Members: Any individuals mentioned on our website or who connect you with a landlord are helping to facilitate the process but are not responsible for the final rental terms or decisions made by the lessor.
By using our services, you acknowledge that Riga Vibes serves as a facilitator and community support system, but all rental responsibilities lie solely with the parties involved in the contract.