Privacy Policy

Last Updated: October 2025
Company: Ascenta (Pty) Ltd
Website: https://www.ascenta.io
Contact: privacy@ascenta.io

1. Introduction

At Ascenta, your privacy and data security are our top priorities.
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you visit our website, use our services, or communicate with us.

By using our website or services, you agree to the terms outlined in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

We collect and process personal data only as necessary to provide our services effectively and securely.

2.1 Information You Provide Directly

• Name, surname, and contact details (email, phone number, business name)
• Payment and billing information (for service subscriptions)
• Website content, logos, and files you upload during web design projects
• Communications sent to us (support requests, inquiries, or client messages)

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect:

• IP address and device information
• Browser type and version
• Pages viewed, time spent, and interactions
• Cookies and analytics data (via Google Analytics or equivalent tools)

2.3 Third-Party Information

We may receive information from trusted third parties (e.g., payment processors, hosting providers, or integrations used for your website).

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide, manage, and improve our web design and hosting services
• Communicate with you regarding projects, updates, or billing
• Customize and optimize your website design using AI-assisted tools
• Ensure website performance, security, and reliability
• Comply with legal and tax obligations
• Send newsletters or updates (only with your consent)

4. Legal Basis for Processing (POPIA & GDPR Compliance)

We process personal data under one or more of the following legal bases:

• Consent: You have given explicit permission for processing (e.g., newsletter signup).
• Contractual Necessity: To deliver the web design or hosting services you requested.
• Legal Obligation: To comply with applicable laws and financial recordkeeping.
• Legitimate Interest: To improve our products, services, and client support.

5. Data Retention

We retain your data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this policy.

• Client project data: kept securely for a maximum of 24 months after project completion (unless you request deletion sooner).
• Financial and legal records: retained for up to 5 years in compliance with South African tax laws.

After this period, data is permanently deleted or anonymized.

6. Data Protection & Security

We use industry-standard security measures to protect your information, including:

• SSL encryption for all data transmissions
• Secure hosting with firewalls and malware detection
• Regular backups and encrypted storage
• Strict access control and password policies
• AI-powered threat monitoring for real-time risk detection

Despite these measures, no online platform is 100% secure. However, we continuously update our systems to minimize risks.

7. Sharing & Disclosure

We do not sell or rent your personal information.
We may share limited data with trusted partners only when necessary to deliver our services:

• Website hosting and domain management partners
• Payment processors (for secure billing)
• Email and communication tools (for customer support)
• Analytics and performance tracking services

All partners are bound by confidentiality and data protection agreements.

8. Your Rights

Under POPIA (South Africa) and GDPR (EU), you have the right to:

• Request access to your personal data
• Correct or update your information
• Request deletion (“right to be forgotten”)
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator (South Africa)

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@ascenta.io.

9. Cookies & Tracking

Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience and measure performance.
You can manage or disable cookies in your browser settings. Some website features may not function correctly if cookies are disabled.

10. International Data Transfers

If your data is transferred or stored outside South Africa, we ensure equivalent data protection measures in line with POPIA, GDPR, and international standards.

11. Children’s Privacy

Our services are not directed toward individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect or process data from minors.

12. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect new technologies, legal requirements, or business changes.
All updates will be published on this page with a revised “Last Updated” date.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or data requests, please contact our Data Protection Officer at:

Ascenta Privacy Office
Email: privacy@ascenta.io

Address: Johannesburg, South Africa