Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

We collect only the minimum information necessary to facilitate spiritual coordination:

• Name, email, and phone number for verified leaders
• Church or fellowship affiliation details
• Location information for matching purposes
• Travel notifications (with explicit consent)
• Communication records between leaders

2. How We Use Your Information

• Facilitate pre-departure spiritual coordination
• Match travelers with nearby churches and fellowships
• Enable secure pastor-to-pastor communication
• Verify church and leader credentials
• Send notifications and reminders (with permission)
• Maintain platform security and integrity

3. Data Sharing & Disclosure

We never sell your data. Information is shared only in these specific circumstances:

• With receiving leaders after explicit consent is granted
• To comply with legal obligations
• To protect platform security and prevent abuse

4. Consent & Control

Students and travelers have complete control over their information. Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and personal data can be deleted upon request. We maintain strict consent records for all handovers.

5. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures including end-to-end encryption for messaging, secure authentication, regular security audits, and encrypted backups. All staff undergo background checks.

6. Data Retention

We retain information only as long as necessary for platform operation or as required by law. Users can request data deletion at any time, subject to legal retention requirements.

7. Your Rights

• Access your personal data
• Correct inaccurate information
• Request data deletion
• Withdraw consent for notifications
• Export your data
• Lodge complaints with data protection authorities

8. International Transfers

As a global platform, data may be transferred across borders. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place and comply with GDPR and other international data protection regulations.

9. Children's Privacy

Our platform is designed for adults coordinating spiritual care. Parents/guardians must initiate notifications for minors, and all such communications require explicit parental consent.

10. Contact Us

For privacy concerns or to exercise your rights, contact our Data Protection Officer at privacy@diasporashepherd.org