Ask Aussie - Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Ask Aussie is an AI-powered mobile application that assists users with questions about moving to Australia. It is operated by Valcron, based in Australia. This Privacy Policy explains how we handle your information when you use our app.

2. Information We Do NOT Collect or Store

3. Information We Do Collect and Store

To provide our AI chat service, we collect and store minimal information:

• Email address: Only for account creation and authentication
• Chat messages: Your questions and our AI responses to provide the service
• Message usage count: To track your purchased message allowance
• Purchase history: Managed entirely by Google Play Store

4. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information solely to:

• Provide AI responses to your questions
• Maintain your chat history for your convenience
• Track your message usage against purchased packages
• Authenticate your account access

5. Data Storage and Security

Your data is stored securely using Google Firebase services:

• Firebase Authentication: Manages your email-based login
• Firebase Firestore: Stores your chat messages and usage data
• All data is encrypted in transit and at rest
• We do not store any data on our own servers

6. In-App Purchases

All payment processing is handled exclusively by Google Play Store:

• We do not collect or store any payment information
• Google processes all transactions securely
• Refunds are subject to Google Play Store policies
• We only receive notification of successful purchases to grant message credits

7. Data Sharing

We do not sell, trade, or share any of your information with third parties, except:

• Google Firebase: For app functionality and data storage
• Google Play Store: For purchase processing
• Legal compliance: Only when required by Law

8. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your data: Request a copy of your chat history and account information
• Delete your data: Contact us to permanently delete your account and all associated data

To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided below.

9. Data Retention

• Chat messages and account information are retained while your account is active
• To delete your account and all data, contact us using the information below
• Purchase records may be retained as required for accounting purposes
• We will respond to deletion requests within 7 business days

10. Age Restrictions

Ask Aussie is intended for users 18 years and older. We do not knowingly collect information from users under 18. If you believe we have collected information from someone under 18, please contact us immediately.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy occasionally. We will notify users of any material changes by updating the "Last updated" date. Continued use of the app after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

12. International Users

Ask Aussie is operated from Australia. By using our app, you consent to the transfer and processing of your information in Australia, which maintains strong data protection standards.

14. Governing Law

This Privacy Policy is governed by Australian law, including the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Consumer Law.