Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Cranberry Buzz Directory ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our directory service.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide

We collect information you voluntarily provide, including:

• Account Information: Name, email address, and password when you create an account
• Business Information: Business name, address, phone, website, description, and other listing details
• Reviews: Content you submit as reviews, including ratings and text
• Communications: Messages you send through the platform

2.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you access our service, we automatically collect:

• Log Data: IP address, browser type, pages viewed, time spent on pages
• Device Information: Device type, operating system, unique device identifiers
• Cookies: Small data files stored on your device (see Cookie Policy below)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Provide, maintain, and improve our services
• Process and manage your account
• Display business listings and reviews
• Send service-related communications
• Respond to your inquiries and requests
• Detect and prevent fraud and abuse
• Analyze usage and trends to improve user experience
• Comply with legal obligations

4. Information Sharing

We may share your information with:

• Public Display: Business listings and reviews are publicly visible
• Service Providers: Third parties who help us operate our services (hosting, analytics, email)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
• Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets

We do not sell your personal information to third parties.

5. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. We may retain certain information as required by law or for legitimate business purposes.

6. Your Rights and Choices

6.1 For All Users

• Access: Request access to your personal information
• Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your account and personal data
• Opt-out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications

6.2 European Economic Area (EEA) Residents - GDPR Rights

If you are in the EEA, you have additional rights under GDPR:

• Data Portability: Request a copy of your data in a portable format
• Restriction: Request we limit processing of your data
• Objection: Object to processing based on legitimate interests
• Withdraw Consent: Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent
• Lodge Complaint: File a complaint with your local data protection authority

6.3 California Residents - CCPA Rights

If you are a California resident, you have rights under CCPA:

• Know: Right to know what personal information is collected
• Delete: Right to request deletion of your personal information
• Opt-Out: Right to opt-out of the sale of personal information (we do not sell)
• Non-Discrimination: Right not to be discriminated against for exercising your rights

7. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your information, including:

• Encryption of data in transit (HTTPS/TLS)
• Secure password storage using industry-standard hashing
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Access controls limiting who can access personal data

However, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.

8. Cookie Policy

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

• Essential Cookies: Required for site functionality (authentication, preferences)
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how visitors use our site
• Performance Cookies: Improve site performance and user experience

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect site functionality.

9. Third-Party Links

Our service may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies.

10. Children's Privacy

Our service is not directed to individuals under 16 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we learn we have collected such information, we will promptly delete it.

11. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your own. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for such transfers in compliance with applicable data protection laws.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify you of material changes by posting the new policy with an updated date. Your continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights, please contact the directory administrator.

For GDPR-related inquiries, you may also contact your local Data Protection Authority.