Effective Date: 01/01/2024
SAFER PLATFORMS LLC – سافر لتطوير المنصات والمواقع الالكترونية ش.ذ.م.م (hereinafter referred to as “SAFER”) is a limited liability company located in Cairo, incorporated under the laws of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and registered with the Investment Commercial Registry under number 212171.
SAFER has developed a carpooling service specializing in long-distance trips between cities and major destinations in Egypt in the form of a mobile application named “SAFER Carpooling Service” (hereinafter referred to as “the App”). SAFER aims to provide a solution for intercity travel while promoting sustainability and convenience. The App is accessible through mobile devices. It connects Car Owners and Passengers, offering a seamless and accessible platform for ridesharing.
PLEASE READ THIS PRIVACY POLICY CAREFULLY BEFORE ACCESSING OR USING THE APP.
BY ACCESSING OR USING THE APP, YOU AGREE TO ABIDE BY THIS PRIVACY POLICY.
IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH THIS PRIVACY POLICY IN THEIR ENTIRETY, THEN YOU ARE PROHIBITED FROM USING THE APP AND YOU MUST DISCONTINUE USE IMMEDIATELY.
Acceptance of Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy constitutes a legally binding agreement made between “you”, an individual located within the Arab Republic of Egypt, and SAFER.
By accessing or using the App, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to this Privacy Policy in its entirety.
Your use of the App is subject to this Privacy policy, which governs your relationship with SAFER and your use of the “SAFER Carpooling Service” Application as well as all the services provided through it.
Effectiveness of the Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy is effective as of the 1st of July 2024.
This version of the Privacy Policy supersedes and replaces any prior version.
In case of discrepancies or variance between the Arabic and the English texts, the English text shall prevail.
If any provision of this Privacy Policy is found to be invalid or unenforceable, such invalidity or unenforceability will not affect the other provisions, which will continue in full force and effect.
SAFER reserves the right to terminate this Privacy Policy, in whole or in part, for any reason at any time, with or without notice. Termination of the Privacy Policy by SAFER may result in the suspension or termination of your access to the App.
Upon termination of this Privacy Policy, you are no longer authorized to access or use the App. Any provisions of this Privacy Policy that, by their nature, should survive termination, will continue to be in effect after such termination.
Information Collection
When you create an account with SAFER, you are required to provide essential personal details that include your mobile number, email address, full name, date of birth, and your governorate of residence. This information helps us set up and manage your account, ensuring that you can fully utilize our services tailored to your location and individual preferences. It also enables us to contact you with important updates, service changes, and other relevant communications.
As part of our verification process, we collect specific documents to confirm the identities of our Users. This includes government-issued IDs, driver’s licenses, and other relevant documentation necessary for verifying both Car Owners and Passengers who opt for verification. The exact nature of these documents and the details of the verification process are outlined comprehensively in a later section of this privacy policy.
We collect real-time geographic location data from your device when you use our App, as well as trip-related data to enhance the functionality and efficiency of our service. This includes your current location during a trip, as well as the starting points and destinations of your trips, all of which are collected through the GPS functionality of your device when you use our App. Additionally, we gather detailed information about the trips you participate in, including dates, times, route information, and the number of Passengers. To further enhance the safety and personalization of our service, we may also ask for the names, ages, and genders of Travelers accompanying you. This information helps us ensure that all Passengers meet the travel requirements and preferences specific to each trip.
We gather information about the device you use to access our service, including the type of device, operating system, unique device identifiers, mobile network information, and your IP address. This data collection extends to your interactions with our App, such as the features you use, the pages you visit, and the frequency and duration of your sessions. Collecting this information enables us to optimize App functionality, enhance User experience, and ensure that our service is tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of our Users. By understanding how you engage with our App, we can introduce improvements, and resolve technical issues more effectively.
Any communications made through our platform, including messages between Car Owners and Passengers, are logged and monitored to facilitate trip coordination and resolve any potential disputes. Additionally, we collect user-generated content such as reviews, ratings, comments, and photos posted by Users.
We collect financial data necessary for facilitating transactions within our service. This includes payment methods and details such as credit/debit card number, cardholder name, expiration date, and security code. Transaction history, including amounts, dates, and statuses, is also recorded. This information is used to process payments for trips, manage refunds or credits, and ensure accurate billing and payments.
We also collect information related to disabilities, if voluntarily disclosed by Users, to ensure accessibility and accommodate specific needs during trips. This sensitive data helps us tailor our services to provide a comfortable and inclusive experience for all Users, enabling us to match Passengers with Car Owners who can meet these requirements.
We do not proactively collect additional data beyond what is necessary for operational purposes, unless required for legal or security reasons. However, Users may voluntarily disclose other types of sensitive information at their discretion. It is important to note that SAFER does not control or actively monitor such disclosures, and therefore, we are not liable for the management or protection of sensitive data shared beyond the scope of our specified collection practices. Users are encouraged to consider the implications of sharing any sensitive information and do so at their own risk.
In addition to personal identification, we collect detailed information about the vehicles registered by Car Owners on our platform. This includes, but is not limited to, vehicle registration details, brand and model, year, color, category, engine size, transmission type, VIN number and license plate number. Collecting this vehicle information is essential for ensuring compliance with transportation regulations, and this data helps us to verify the eligibility of vehicles used in our service.
Verification Documents
For the verification process, SAFER mandates that all Users submit a clear, valid in-app photo of their government-issued ID. Egyptian nationals are required to provide their National ID Card, while non-Egyptian Users must submit a government-issued passport. This step is essential to ensure the legitimacy and safety of our platform by verifying the identities of Users. Obtaining a “Verified” status through this process enhances trust and security within the platform, allowing Users to engage more confidently and securely with our services.
SAFER Car Owners are required to provide a digital copy of their valid, current, and unrestricted driver’s license issued in Egypt. This requirement is crucial as it verifies that the individual is legally permitted to drive and confirms adherence to all regulatory standards for vehicle operation within the country, and meets the minimum age and experience requirements set forth by SAFER.
Users who opt for verification must submit a in-app selfie, which serves as a crucial measure for fraud prevention. This selfie helps confirm that the identification documents provided are indeed those of the account holder. Secondly, Users who opt for verification are required to upload a recent profile picture. This image is vital for facilitating visual identification during meet-ups, ensuring that Users can easily recognize each other.
Car Owners are required to provide a digital copy of the vehicle registration for the vehicle they intend to use, which is essential for confirming that the vehicle is legally registered and meets all operational requirements for public roads in Egypt. This step is critical in ensuring compliance with local transportation laws and maintaining the safety and reliability of our service. Additionally, Car Owners may be asked to submit recent photographs of their vehicle, including images from multiple angles and the interior. These photographs are crucial for enabling us to verify that the vehicle is in a good condition and for helping Passengers identify the vehicle for their scheduled trips.
Methods of Information Collection
Direct User input is a primary method through which we collect information at SAFER. When you create an account with us, you are required to provide essential personal details including, but not limited to, your mobile number, email address, full name, date of birth, gender and your governorate of residence. This information is crucial for setting up and managing your account effectively. Additionally, as you continue to use our service, any updates or modifications you make to your profile also involve direct input. This may include changes to contact details, preferences, or adding new information related to your driving and vehicle status. Collecting this data directly from you ensures that our records are accurate and up-to-date.
Another critical aspect of direct user input at SAFER involves the collection of vehicle and trip information. Car Owners are required to provide detailed data about their vehicles, which includes registration details and photographs of the vehicle. This information is essential for verifying the legality and suitability of the vehicles used on our platform.
Additionally, when Users book or list a trip, they input specific information related to that trip. This includes the dates, times, and route details of the trip. Furthermore, part of the direct user input process extends to the submission of verification documents necessary to achieve the “Verified User” status.
Through automated technologies, we efficiently gather device and usage data to enhance the functionality and user experience of our app. When you access our service, our system automatically collects information directly from the device you use. This includes identifying the type of device, its operating system, unique device identifiers, and the mobile network information connected to your device. Additionally, as you navigate and interact with our App, we capture detailed usage data. This encompasses the features you engage with, the specific pages you visit within the app, and the duration and frequency of your activities. We also utilize the GPS functionality of your mobile device to collect real-time geographic location data whenever you use our App.
For financial transactions within the app, such as trip payments or Car Owners’ compensations, SAFER collaborates with third-party payment processors. These specialized services facilitate the secure collection and processing of financial information, including credit card numbers and bank accounts’ details.
We may use third-party analytics providers to enhance our understanding of how our service is used and to identify opportunities for improvement. These analytics tools collect a variety of data from your device and our App, including details about the web pages you visit, the add-ons you use, and other relevant usage information. This data helps us to analyze user behavior, optimize app performance, and enhance the overall user experience.
We actively collect information through user communications, which includes feedback and reviews you provide about your trips or interactions with other Users on our platform. This data is essential for understanding your experience and improving our services. Additionally, any communications made through our customer service channels are logged and analyzed. These interactions may involve discussions about your account, troubleshooting, or resolving any issues you encounter while using SAFER.
We may occasionally use other tracking technologies to collect information about your activity on our app and third-party websites. This helps us understand your preferences and improve your user experience.
Use of Information
For account management and user identification, SAFER utilizes personal information such as full name, email address, and date of birth to effectively manage user accounts and ensure the integrity and security of our platform. These details are integral from the initial account setup, aiding in creating a unique user profile and facilitating secure login processes. They serve critical functions in identity verification and age confirmation, helping to comply with service age requirements and enhance overall user safety. The email address acts as a vital communication link, enabling account verification, service notifications, and password recovery options.
For service delivery, SAFER utilizes location data, vehicle information, and trip specifics to facilitate the core functionalities of our carpooling service. Location data plays a pivotal role in our service as it enables real-time tracking and efficient route mapping.
Vehicle information, including details such as make, model, registration, and photographs of the vehicle, is used to ensure that all cars used in our service meet our safety and compliance standards. This information helps Passengers identify the correct vehicle at the time of meet-up, contributing to a better carpooling experience.
Trip specifics such as dates, times, starting and ending locations, and the number of passengers are crucial for organizing the trips effectively. This data allows us to manage the logistics of each trip, from scheduling to capacity planning, ensuring that we can accommodate as many Users as efficiently as possible.
When Passengers make payments for trips or when Car Owners receive compensation, the financial data is directly routed through third-party payment providers. The use of third-party payment processors allows SAFER to provide a seamless payment experience, whether it’s charging Passengers for their rides or in order to compensate Car Owners.
When Users contact our customer service, the conversations are logged, monitored and analyzed to understand the nature of the inquiry or issue. This data helps us tailor our assistance specifically to the needs of the User, ensuring that each concern is addressed appropriately and efficiently. Whether it’s a question about how to use the App, a problem with a trip, or a dispute between Users, the detailed records of these communications enable our customer support team to provide informed and helpful responses.
Moreover, this information also plays a crucial role in improving our services. By reviewing common inquiries and issues, SAFER can identify areas of the service that may need enhancement. This ongoing analysis leads to continuous improvements in our App and operations, ultimately enhancing User satisfaction.
To enhance User experience, SAFER utilizes device and usage data to continuously improve our App’s functionality and interface. By analyzing the type of devices used, operating systems, unique identifiers, and user interactions such as feature usage and session durations, we gain insights that help us optimize app performance and tailor experiences to user needs. This data informs our decisions on interface improvements, feature enhancements, and the introduction of new functionalities, ensuring that our App remains intuitive, user-friendly, and responsive to the specific preferences and requirements of our Users.
SAFER uses personal information to inform Users about new services, features, or promotional offers that may be of interest to them. We analyze the personal details provided by Users, such as their location, usage patterns, and previous interactions with our services, to tailor marketing communications effectively. This targeted approach ensures that Users receive promotions and updates that are most relevant to their preferences and needs.
SAFER utilizes user information to adhere to legal obligations and enforce our terms of service. This involves using the data collected to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations across jurisdictions where we operate. Information such as user identities, transaction records, and communication logs may be used to respond to legal requests from authorities, such as subpoenas or court orders. Additionally, we use this data to enforce our agreements with Users, addressing any violations of terms of service, and resolving disputes. When necessary, your information may also be processed to exercise, establish, or defend our legal rights, contributing to the security and integrity of our services and/or safeguarding our Users.
Users should be aware that their data may be transferred across borders for processing and storage.
Information Sharing and Disclosure
SAFER shares information with third-party service providers who perform various services on our behalf. These services include, but are not limited to, payment processing, data analysis, email delivery, hosting services, customer service, and marketing assistance.
In the event of business deals such as mergers, acquisitions, or asset sales, SAFER may disclose user information as part of these transactions. This disclosure is typically necessary for the continuation or development of the services provided, allowing the new business entity to continue operations or integrate services effectively.
SAFER may disclose User information to comply with legal obligations or to respond to requests from public authorities, including court orders or subpoenas, as required by law. This disclosure is essential not only for legal compliance but also to assist in law enforcement efforts. Additionally, we may share information to protect the rights, property, or safety of our platform, our Users, or others. This includes taking necessary actions to prevent or address fraud, security threats, and other malicious activities that could compromise our services, or the safety and/or privacy of the App’s Users. In scenarios where there are risks to physical safety or platform security, we may also provide information to law enforcement or other authorities to aid in the prevention, investigation, or mitigation of such issues, including sharing data in emergency situations where immediate action is required.
SAFER facilitates the necessary sharing of information between matched Car Owners and Passengers. This includes sharing contact details and vehicle information, which are essential for coordinating trips. For instance, once a Car Owner accepts a trip request, their license plate number, along with their contact details, may be shared with the Passengers. Conversely, Passengers’ contact information is provided to the Car Owner to facilitate communication regarding meet-up times, locations, and any potential changes to the trip.
SAFER may share aggregated statistics with potential partners, advertisers, or other third parties for promotional purposes. This data, which is compiled from User information, is presented in an aggregated form that does not identify individual Users. It includes statistics such as User demographics, travel patterns, and App usage trends, providing valuable insights that can be utilized for targeted advertising and strategic partnerships.
SAFER also facilitates the sharing of reviews and ratings between Users. After completing a trip, Car Owners and Passengers are encouraged to leave reviews and rate each other based on their experiences. These reviews and ratings are then made available to other Users.
User Rights and Choices
Users have the right to access their personal data that we hold. This right enables Users to review the data to ensure its accuracy and the lawfulness of its processing. To exercise this right, Users can submit a request via email info@safer-platforms.com. Upon receiving a request, we require Users to verify their identity to protect their privacy and secure their information. This verification may involve answering security questions or providing proof of identity.
Users have the right to correct any inaccuracies or incompleteness in the data we hold about them. Users can update their personal information directly through the “Profile” section on the App, where most personal details such as contact information, profile data, and preferences can be easily modified. For corrections that require more careful handling, Users may contact our customer support team to assist in making the necessary changes. This may involve verifying the updated details through additional documentation to ensure the accuracy of the data.
Users are granted the right to have their personal data erased from our systems, commonly referred to as the “right to be forgotten.” This right enables Users to request the removal of their information when it is no longer necessary for the purposes for which it was collected, or when Users withdraw their consent, among other circumstances. To request data deletion, Users can submit a request by directly contacting our customer support or through info@safer-platforms.com. Upon receiving a request, SAFER evaluates the circumstances surrounding the data to determine if the request meets the criteria for deletion under applicable laws. For instance, data may need to be retained due to legal obligations or for establishing, exercising, or defending legal claims. If the request is approved, SAFER will proceed with securely erasing the User’s data from our systems.
Data Retention
SAFER adheres to a general policy of retaining User data for an indeterminate period, keeping it for as long as deemed necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in our Privacy Policy. However, there are instances where a shorter retention period may be required by law or in the event that a User has asked for his data to be deleted. In such cases, SAFER ensures compliance by adjusting the retention period accordingly to meet specific legal requirements.
Changes to the Privacy Policy
SAFER reserves the right to make changes to this Privacy Policy at any time. Changes to the policy may be communicated to Users through various channels, including email notifications, in-app messages, or updates posted on our website. It is your responsibility to review any modifications and to ensure that you understand and accept the revised Privacy Policy. Your continued use of the App after any modifications indicate your acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.