Privacy Policy - IndianGayChat.co.in

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Personal Information

When you create an account on IndianGayChat.co.in, we collect:

• Basic profile information (name, age, location, email address)
• Profile photos and descriptions
• Sexual orientation and relationship preferences
• Contact information and communication preferences
• Verification documents (when required for safety)

1.2 Usage Information

We automatically collect information about how you use our platform:

• Device information (IP address, browser type, operating system)
• Usage patterns and interaction data
• Location data (with your permission)
• Communication logs and message metadata
• Search queries and preferences

1.3 Sensitive Information

We understand the sensitive nature of LGBTQ+ dating and handle the following with extra care:

• Sexual orientation and gender identity information
• Relationship status and preferences
• Health-related information (if voluntarily provided)
• Private communications between users

2. How We Use Your Information

2.1 Platform Services

• Creating and maintaining your profile
• Matching you with compatible users
• Facilitating communication between members
• Providing customer support and assistance
• Improving our matching algorithms

2.2 Safety and Security

• Verifying user identities and preventing fraud
• Detecting and preventing harassment or abuse
• Monitoring for suspicious activities
• Enforcing our community guidelines
• Protecting against spam and malicious content

2.3 Communication

• Sending important platform updates and notifications
• Providing customer support responses
• Sharing safety tips and community guidelines
• Marketing communications (with your consent)

3. Information Sharing and Disclosure

3.1 With Other Users

We share limited profile information with other users for matching purposes:

• Profile photos and basic information you choose to display
• Age, location (general area), and preferences
• Activity status and last seen information
• Messages and communications you send to other users

3.2 Service Providers

We may share information with trusted third-party service providers who help us operate our platform:

• Cloud hosting and data storage providers
• Payment processing companies
• Customer support and communication tools
• Analytics and performance monitoring services
• Security and fraud prevention services

3.3 Legal Requirements

We may disclose your information when required by law or to:

• Comply with legal processes and government requests
• Protect our rights, property, or safety
• Protect the rights and safety of our users
• Investigate fraud or security issues
• Enforce our Terms of Service

3.4 What We Never Share

We will never sell, rent, or share your personal information with:

• Advertisers or marketing companies
• Data brokers or information resellers
• Social media platforms
• Employers or family members
• Government agencies (except when legally required)

4. Data Security and Protection

4.1 Security Measures

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your information:

• SSL/TLS encryption for all data transmission
• Encrypted data storage and secure databases
• Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
• Multi-factor authentication options
• Secure payment processing systems

4.2 Access Controls

• Limited employee access to personal data
• Background checks for staff with data access
• Regular training on privacy and security practices
• Monitoring and logging of data access

4.3 Data Breach Response

In the unlikely event of a data breach, we will:

• Immediately investigate and contain the breach
• Notify affected users within 72 hours
• Report to relevant authorities as required
• Provide support and guidance to affected users
• Implement additional security measures to prevent future breaches

5. Your Privacy Rights and Controls

5.1 Account Management

• Update or modify your profile information at any time
• Control who can see your profile and photos
• Manage your communication preferences
• Block or report inappropriate users
• Delete your account and associated data

5.2 Data Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal data and download a copy
• Correct inaccurate or incomplete information
• Request deletion of your personal data
• Object to certain types of data processing
• Withdraw consent for optional data collection

5.3 Privacy Settings

• Control profile visibility and search settings
• Manage location sharing preferences
• Set communication and notification preferences
• Choose what information to display publicly
• Enable or disable optional features

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

6.1 Types of Cookies

We use the following types of cookies:

• Essential Cookies: Required for basic platform functionality
• Performance Cookies: Help us understand how users interact with our site
• Functional Cookies: Remember your preferences and settings
• Analytics Cookies: Provide insights into user behavior and platform performance

6.2 Cookie Management

You can control cookies through:

• Browser settings to block or delete cookies
• Our cookie preference center
• Opting out of analytics tracking
• Disabling non-essential cookies

7. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than India. When we transfer data internationally, we ensure:

• Adequate protection through appropriate safeguards
• Compliance with applicable data protection laws
• Contractual protections with service providers
• Regular monitoring of data handling practices

8. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to provide our services and comply with legal obligations:

• Active Accounts: Data retained while your account is active
• Deleted Accounts: Most data deleted within 30 days
• Legal Requirements: Some data may be retained longer for legal compliance
• Safety Records: Safety-related information may be retained for user protection

9. Children's Privacy

IndianGayChat.co.in is intended for adults aged 18 and older. We do not knowingly collect personal information from individuals under 18. If we become aware that we have collected information from someone under 18, we will delete it immediately.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we make changes:

• We will notify you via email or platform notification
• The updated policy will be posted on our website
• We will update the "Last Updated" date
• Significant changes will require your consent

11. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

12. Specific Protections for LGBTQ+ Users

We understand the unique privacy needs of LGBTQ+ individuals in India and provide additional protections:

• Enhanced anonymity options for users in conservative areas
• Strict policies against outing or harassment
• Secure communication channels
• Option to hide profile from specific locations or networks
• Emergency account deactivation features
• Support for users facing discrimination or safety concerns