1. Introduction

CampusConnect ("we," "our," or "us") is a social networking platform exclusively for students, researchers, and staff of accredited educational institutions. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use our app.

2. Who Can Use CampusConnect

CampusConnect is restricted to individuals with a valid email address from an accredited college or university. By using this app, you confirm that you are a student, researcher, or staff member of an eligible institution.

3. Information We Collect

We collect the following information:

• College/institutional email address — for account creation and for OTP based login verification 

• Username — chosen by you after signup

• Profile information — name, profile picture, college/university

• Posts and content — text, images, and other content you share publicly

• Comments and reactions — on posts made by you or others

• Messages — direct messages sent between users

• Search history — usernames and college domains you search for

• Friend connections — users you connect with

4. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Verify your eligibility (college email domain verification)

• Create and manage your account

• Enable social features (posts, comments, messaging, friend requests)

• Allow other users to find you by username or college domain

• Ensure platform security and prevent fraud

• Improve app performance and user experience

5. Information Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties except:

• When required by law or legal process

• To protect the rights and safety of our users

• With service providers who help operate our platform (under strict confidentiality)

6. Public Content

Content you post publicly (posts, comments) is visible to all CampusConnect users. Your username and college/university name may be visible to other users when they search.

7. Data Security

• All data is encrypted in transit using HTTPS/SSL

• Passwords are encrypted and never stored in plain text

• Access to user data is strictly controlled

8. Account Deletion

You can request deletion of your account and all associated data by:

• Using the account deletion option within the app settings

• Submitting a request via our deletion form

Upon deletion, all your personal data, posts, messages, and connections will be permanently removed within 30 days.

9. Data Retention

We retain your data as long as your account is active. If you delete your account, your data is permanently deleted within 30 days.

10. Children's Privacy

CampusConnect is not intended for users under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 13.

11. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal data

• Correct inaccurate data

• Delete your account and data

• Request a copy of your data

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify users of significant changes via the app or email.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, contact us at: Email: akj588875@gmail.com  App: CampusConnect Website: https://campusconnectuni.onhercules.app