Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Helpmate ("we", "us", or "our") operates the website helpmate.com and related mobile services. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you visit our website, place orders, register as a vendor, or contact our support team.

By using our services, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of our platform.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal information:

• Identity Data: Full name, date of birth (where required), and national ID or CNIC (for vendor verification only).
• Contact Data: Email address, phone number, and delivery address.
• Account Data: Username, password (encrypted), and account preferences.
• Transaction Data: Order history, payment method details (processed securely via PayFast and other licensed payment gateways — we do not store full card numbers).
• Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device information, and cookies when you browse our website.
• Communication Data: Messages sent via our contact form, email, or WhatsApp support channels.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Process and fulfil your grocery and product orders.
• Arrange doorstep delivery to your registered address.
• Process payments and issue invoices or receipts.
• Communicate order updates, delivery status, and promotional offers (with your consent).
• Verify vendor identities and maintain platform security.
• Respond to customer support enquiries and resolve disputes.
• Improve our website, services, and user experience through analytics.
• Comply with applicable Pakistani laws and regulatory requirements.

4. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your personal data. We may share information with:

• Delivery Partners: Name, phone number, and delivery address to complete your order.
• Payment Processors: PayFast and other licensed gateways to process transactions securely.
• Service Providers: IT hosting, email, and analytics providers bound by confidentiality agreements.
• Legal Authorities: When required by law, court order, or to protect our legal rights.

5. Cookies & Tracking

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to remember your preferences, keep you logged in, and analyse site traffic. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some features may not function correctly without them.

6. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures including SSL encryption, secure password hashing, and restricted access to personal data. While we strive to protect your information, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure.

7. Data Retention

We retain your personal data for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Transaction records are retained for a minimum of 5 years as required by Pakistani tax and commercial law.

8. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you.
• Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data.
• Request deletion of your account and associated data (subject to legal retention requirements).
• Opt out of marketing communications at any time.
• Lodge a complaint with us or relevant data protection authorities.

9. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us immediately.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.