Privacy Policy of National Debt Consultants (NDC)
Last Updated: October 2024
Introduction
At National Debt Consultants (NDC), we are committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information in compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA) and our obligations as regulated by the National Credit Regulator (NCR). This policy applies to all visitors of our website, clients, and any other individuals whose personal information we may collect.
Definitions
- Personal Information: Any information that identifies or can be used to identify an individual, including but not limited to names, contact details, financial information, and any other data that may be linked to an individual.
- Processing: Any operation or activity involving Personal Information, including collection, storage, use, sharing, and deletion of such information.
- NCR: The National Credit Regulator, the regulatory authority overseeing credit providers and debt counselling services in South Africa.
- NDC: Any mention of NDC on our website refers to our company, National Debt Consultants and should be taken as such, and not as any other abbreviations accepted outside of our immediate context.
Who We Are
National Debt Consultants (NDC) is a registered debt counselling service provider operating in South Africa. We offer solutions for individuals seeking assistance with debt management and financial planning. As a responsible party and operator under POPIA, we are dedicated to safeguarding your Personal Information.
Our Commitment to POPIA
NDC is committed to adhering to the principles outlined in POPIA, ensuring that your Personal Information is processed lawfully and responsibly. We respect your right to privacy and strive to handle your data transparently and securely.
Personal Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of Personal Information during your interaction with us:
- Full names
- Contact details (phone numbers, email addresses)
- Financial information (income, expenses, debts)
- Identification numbers
- Other information necessary for debt counselling services
How We Use Your Personal Information
We process your Personal Information for various purposes, including but not limited to:
- Providing debt counselling services
- Communicating with you regarding your case
- Offering quotes and financial advice
- Complying with legal obligations
- Conducting marketing and promotional activities
Marketing and Branding Activities
At NDC, we believe in keeping our clients informed about our services and offers. We may use your Personal Information to send you promotional materials, newsletters, and updates about our services.
If you are an existing client, we may contact you with tailored offers that align with your profile. If you are not yet a client, we would like to share information about how our services can benefit you. We will always respect your preferences regarding communications and provide options to opt out.
We may utilize various marketing channels, including email, social media, and direct marketing. You will always have the opportunity to unsubscribe from any marketing communications, and we will ensure that your preferences are honoured.
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
NDC uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance user experience on our website. Cookies are small data files placed on your device that help us recognize you and improve our services. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings.
Regulation by the National Credit Regulator (NCR)
As a debt counselling service, NDC is regulated by the National Credit Regulator (NCR). We adhere to the regulations and guidelines set forth by the NCR, ensuring that our practices align with the principles of fair treatment, transparency, and responsible lending. This regulatory oversight helps us maintain the integrity of our services and protects the interests of our clients.
Information Sharing and Disclosure
We may share your Personal Information with:
- Authorized employees and agents for the purposes of service delivery
- Regulatory bodies, including but not limited to the NCR, as required by law
- Third-party service providers engaged to assist us in delivering our services
We will ensure that any third parties with whom we share your information comply with POPIA and maintain the confidentiality and security of your data.
Data Security Measures
NDC employs reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your Personal Information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. We regularly review our security practices to enhance our data protection strategies.
Data Retention Policy
We retain your Personal Information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law. When your data is no longer needed, we will securely delete or anonymize it.
Your Rights
You have several rights regarding your Personal Information, including:
- The right to access your data
- The right to rectify inaccurate information
- The right to object to processing
- The right to lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator
For inquiries or to exercise your rights, please contact us using the information provided below.
Third-party Links
Our website may include links to third-party sites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these sites, and we encourage you to review their privacy policies.
Amendments to the Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page, and we encourage you to review it periodically to stay informed about how we are protecting your information.
Acknowledgement of Risks
While we take reasonable measures to protect your Personal Information, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. Therefore, we cannot guarantee absolute security.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights, please contact our Information Officer:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 021 054 1141
- Address: Buchanan Square Building, 160 Sir Lowry Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915