Last Updated: 01/06/2024

At Vruttalayam, we are committed to protecting your privacy. As a non-profit e-commerce platform dedicated to selling Indian snacks, sweets, and food products, we ensure that any personal information you share with us is handled responsibly, transparently, and in compliance with Canadian privacy laws, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information when you use our website and services.

  1. Collection of Information

We only collect personal information that is necessary for the efficient operation of our platform and to fulfill your orders.

1.1 Contact Information

We collect your name, email address, and phone number to facilitate order confirmations, delivery updates, and customer support interactions.

1.2 Address Information

We collect your shipping and billing address to process deliveries and ensure that your order reaches you accurately and on time.

1.3 Payment Information

We process payments securely but do not store credit card, debit card, or Interac payment details. All transactions are processed through third-party payment gateways that comply with Canada’s Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

1.4 Cookies and Tracking Technologies

To improve your browsing experience and enhance website functionality, we may use cookies and tracking technologies. You have control over your cookie preferences through your browser settings.

  1. How We Use Your Information

2.1 Order Processing and Fulfillment

Your personal information is used to:

  • Confirm and process your order.
  • Arrange shipping and provide tracking updates.
  • Process payments securely.

2.2 Customer Support and Communications

We use your contact details to:

  • Respond to inquiries or issues related to orders.
  • Send important service updates (e.g., order confirmations, changes to policies).

2.3 Service Improvements and Analytics

We may analyze customer behavior and preferences to:

  • Enhance our website experience.
  • Improve product offerings and customer service.
  1. Disclosure of Information

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information. However, in some cases, we may share your data with:

3.1 Service Providers and Delivery Partners

We work with trusted third-party service providers to process orders, handle payments, and deliver products. These providers adhere to Canadian data protection standards.

3.2 Legal and Regulatory Compliance

We may disclose personal information if required by law, such as to:

  • Comply with Canadian federal or provincial legal requirements.
  • Respond to a court order or legal investigation.
  • Prevent fraudulent activity or security threats.
  1. Security Measures

We implement security measures to protect your personal data from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction.

4.1 Data Encryption

All personal data, including payment details, is transmitted using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption to prevent unauthorized interception.

4.2 Access Control and Confidentiality

Only authorized personnel have access to personal data. All employees and third-party service providers handling user data follow strict confidentiality agreements.

  1. Your Rights Under Canadian Privacy Laws

Under PIPEDA and provincial privacy laws, you have specific rights regarding your personal data.

5.1 Access and Correction of Personal Information

You have the right to access and correct your personal information at any time. You may do so by logging into your Vruttalayam account or contacting our customer service team.

5.2 Account Deletion

If you wish to delete your account, you may request deletion by contacting us. Upon request, we will permanently remove your personal information unless retention is required by law for tax, fraud prevention, or legal compliance purposes.

5.3 Marketing Preferences and Opt-Outs

If you do not wish to receive promotional communications, you may:

  • Click “Unsubscribe” in our emails.
  • Adjust your notification settings in your account.
  • Contact us directly to update your preferences.
  1. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected. This means:

  • Order-related data is retained for legal and tax compliance purposes.
  • If you delete your account, we will erase your data unless retention is required by law.
  1. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in Canadian privacy laws, operational requirements, or security updates. Any changes will be posted on our website, and significant updates will be communicated via email.

Thank you for supporting Vruttalayam. We are committed to protecting your privacy while offering you a seamless and secure shopping experience.