ChatBuddy Privacy Policy & User Protection Guidelines

Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Last Updated: January 1, 2025

Welcome to ChatBuddy (“we”, “our”, “us”).
Your privacy and emotional safety are our top priorities. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use ChatBuddy — our platform for genuine conversations, companionship, and emotional support.

By using our website or mobile service, you agree to the practices described below.

1. Information We Collect

We collect only the information needed to provide a safe and personalized chat experience:

a. Personal Information

When you register or contact us, we may collect:

• Full name or display name

• Email address and contact information

• Age and gender (for matching or compatibility)

• Profile photo or optional avatar

• Payment and billing information (for subscription plans)

b. Usage Data

We may automatically collect:

• Chat history and user interactions (for moderation and safety)

• Device and browser information

• IP address, location (approximate), and time zone

• Log files and app usage statistics

c. Sensitive Data (Optional)

If you choose to share emotional, mental health, or lifestyle-related information during chats, you do so voluntarily. We do not sell, rent, or misuse such information.

2. How We Use Your Information

Your data helps us to:

• Match you with compatible chat buddies or support partners

• Improve chat recommendations and connection quality

• Process payments and manage subscriptions

• Ensure community safety and prevent misuse

• Provide technical support and respond to inquiries

• Send important service updates or policy notices

We never sell your personal data to third parties.

3. Communication and Chat Safety

• Chats are monitored only when necessary for moderation, safety, or abuse reporting.

• Private messages remain encrypted and confidential between participants, unless flagged for review.

• You can block, report, or mute any user at any time.

• Offensive, exploitative, or abusive communication is strictly prohibited.
  

4. Identity Verification

To protect user safety, ChatBuddy may request identity verification via ID upload, photo match, or phone confirmation. This process ensures authenticity and prevents impersonation or fraud.
All verification data is stored securely and deleted after validation.

5. Subscription & Payments

We offer multiple membership tiers (Basic, Premium, VIP).

• Payments are processed via secure third-party gateways (e.g., Stripe, PayPal).

• ChatBuddy does not store your card details directly.

• Subscription fees are billed as disclosed at checkout.
  

Refund Policy:
You may request a refund within 7 days of payment if:

• You experienced a technical issue preventing access, or

• You did not receive the services purchased.
  

Refunds for completed chats or partially used plans are handled case-by-case.

6. Data Storage & Security

• We use SSL encryption, secure servers, and periodic security audits.

• Data is retained only as long as necessary to provide services.

• Users may request account deletion and data removal anytime by emailing contact@chatmebuddy.com.
  

7. Sharing Your Data

We do not share your personal data except:

• With verified ChatBuddy staff or moderators (for safety review)

• With payment processors (to complete transactions)

• If required by law, regulation, or court order
  

We never sell or rent user data under any circumstances.

8. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information

• Request corrections or deletion

• Withdraw consent at any time

• Request a copy of your stored data
  

To exercise your rights, contact contact@chatmebuddy.com.

9. Safety & Conduct Policy

At ChatBuddy, we are committed to maintaining a respectful, supportive community.
Users must agree to:

• Treat all chat buddies with kindness and respect

• Avoid harassment, explicit content, or solicitation

• Not share or request personal contact details outside the platform

• Report suspicious or abusive behavior immediately
  

Repeated violations may result in suspension or permanent removal.

10. Third-Party Services

Our website may contain links to third-party tools or payment providers. We are not responsible for their privacy practices and encourage you to review their policies before use.

11. Age Requirement

You must be 18 years or older to use ChatBuddy.
We do not knowingly collect data from minors.

12. Policy Updates

We may occasionally update this Privacy Policy. When changes are made, we will notify users via email or website banner.

13. Contact Us

For questions, complaints, or privacy-related requests, please contact:
📧 contact@chatmebuddy.com
🌐 https://chatmebuddy.com