In short
In short: we collect the manager's identity, store information, and usage data, solely to run and bill the service. Two separate, optional consents exist: receiving our information emails, and sharing your business contact details with partners. Neither is enabled by default. You may withdraw your consent at any time from the app or by contacting support, which removes your details from future data sharing. The legal detail follows, section by section.
1. Information We Collect
In operating MerchantHQ, we collect the following types of information: • Manager / User Identity: Full name, email address, phone number (WhatsApp). • Store / Business Information: Store name, business sector, location (City, District, Country). • Usage Data: Subscription status, sale transactions, and checkout system records.
2. Purpose of Data Processing
Collected data is processed for the following purposes: 1. To deliver, maintain, secure, and bill the MerchantHQ software platform. 2. To adapt the service for local (DRC) and international commercial environments. 3. Communications: to send MerchantHQ information and updates by email, only if the manager opted in during registration. 4. Commercial Partnerships (Opt-in): with the user's explicit consent, given from the application settings, to share business contact details with qualified partners (wholesalers, suppliers, financial institutions, or payment services).
3. Optional Consents (Email and Partners)
Two separate, optional consents are offered: • Email communications: during registration, a checkbox lets you receive MerchantHQ information and updates by email. If unchecked, no commercial communication is sent. • Partner sharing: from the application settings, the manager may agree that their professional contact details (Name, Phone Number, Business Sector, City) be shared with MerchantHQ commercial partners (wholesalers, financial services) to receive offers suited to their shop. If enabled, MerchantHQ may transmit or monetize these business contacts with vetted third parties; otherwise they remain strictly confidential and restricted to internal MerchantHQ usage.
4. Data Storage & Security
Data is encrypted and securely stored in cloud databases hosted by Turso, managed via secure APIs on Vercel. No plain-text passwords or financial transaction secrets are stored in clear text.
5. Exercising Your Rights (Opt-Out)
In accordance with the DRC Digital Code (Code du Numérique) and international privacy laws, users have the right to access, rectify, or request the deletion of their personal data. Users may withdraw their consent for data sharing at any time through application settings or by contacting technical support. Upon receiving an opt-out request, information will be excluded from future partner data exports.
6. Data Controller & Contact
The data controller is the publisher of MerchantHQ, legally represented by Mrs. Paulette Sankinka on behalf of the project created and developed by Enzo Izinga. To exercise your rights or ask a question about your data, write to contact@hqmerchant.xyz. The most common legal questions are also gathered on the site's "FAQ juridique" page (hqmerchant.xyz/legal/faq).