Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2025

Ascend ("we," "our," or "us") values your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and share information about you when you use our website, mobile application, and related services (collectively, the "Services").

By using Ascend, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use our Services.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information in the following ways:

a. Information You Provide Directly

  • Account Information: When you create an Ascend account, we collect your name, username, email address, password, profile photo, and any additional information you choose to provide.
  • Content You Share: This includes posts, comments, messages, images, videos, and other content you upload or create on Ascend.
  • Goal & Collaboration Data: If you set goals, track progress, or collaborate with other users, we collect related details to provide and improve these features.

b. Information We Collect Automatically

  • Usage Data: Information about your interactions with the Services, such as pages viewed, features used, and time spent on the platform.
  • Device & Log Data: IP address, device type, operating system, browser type, app version, and diagnostic logs.
  • Cookies & Tracking Technologies: We use cookies, pixels, and similar technologies to remember your preferences, improve performance, and deliver relevant content.

c. Information from Third Parties

  • Social Logins: If you sign up using a third-party service (e.g., Google, Apple, LinkedIn), we may receive information such as your name, email address, and profile picture.
  • Integrations: If you connect third-party tools or services to Ascend, we collect data as permitted by their privacy policies.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

  • Provide, operate, and improve the Services.
  • Personalize your experience and show you relevant content.
  • Facilitate collaboration and networking features.
  • Send you updates, security alerts, and support messages.
  • Analyze usage patterns to improve product performance and security.
  • Comply with legal obligations and enforce our Terms of Service.

3. How We Share Your Information

We may share your information:

  • With Other Users: Content you post, your profile information, and activity may be visible to other Ascend users, depending on your privacy settings.
  • With Service Providers: We share information with trusted vendors who perform services on our behalf (e.g., hosting, analytics, customer support).
  • For Legal Reasons: When required by law, legal process, or government request, or to protect the rights, safety, and security of Ascend and its users.
  • In Business Transfers: If Ascend is involved in a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred as part of that transaction.

4. Your Privacy Choices

You have the right to:

  • Access and Update Your Information: Edit your profile and settings within the app.
  • Control Visibility: Adjust privacy settings to manage what other users see.
  • Opt Out of Marketing Emails: Click "unsubscribe" in marketing communications.
  • Delete Your Account: Contact us or use in-app tools to request account deletion.

For California and EU residents, you may have additional rights under CCPA and GDPR, including the right to request a copy of your data, restrict processing, or object to certain uses.

5. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide the Services. We may also retain certain information for legal, security, or operational purposes.

6. Security

We take reasonable measures to protect your information from loss, theft, misuse, and unauthorized access. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure.

7. Children's Privacy

Ascend is not intended for children under 13 (or the minimum age in your jurisdiction). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

8. International Users

Your information may be stored and processed in countries other than your own, including the United States. These countries may have different data protection laws than your home country.

9. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. If we make material changes, we will notify you by posting the updated policy and revising the "Effective Date."

10. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our practices, contact us at:

Ascend Privacy Team

Email: privacy@ascendapp.com

Address: [Insert Mailing Address]