Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

Heritage Collectors Academy collects information to provide better educational services to our students and prospective students:

• Personal Information: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address, and educational background when you register for programs or contact us
• Payment Information: Billing details and payment method information processed through secure third-party payment processors
• Educational Records: Course progress, assignments, certifications, and academic performance for enrolled students
• Website Usage Data: IP address, browser type, pages visited, time spent on site, and referring websites
• Communication Records: Correspondence with our staff, customer service interactions, and feedback

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information for the following purposes:

• Processing course enrollments and providing educational services
• Communicating about programs, schedules, and important updates
• Maintaining student records and issuing certifications
• Improving our website functionality and user experience
• Sending relevant educational content and program information (with your consent)
• Complying with legal requirements and protecting our rights
• Conducting research to improve our educational programs

3. Information Sharing

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: Trusted third-party vendors who assist with payment processing, email delivery, and website analytics
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or legal process
• Business Protection: To protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of our students and staff
• Certification Bodies: With relevant professional organizations for credential verification purposes (with your consent)

4. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information:

• Encryption of sensitive data during transmission and storage
• Regular security assessments and updates to our systems
• Limited access to personal information on a need-to-know basis
• Secure payment processing through PCI-compliant providers
• Regular backup procedures and disaster recovery protocols

5. Cookies and Tracking

Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to:

• Remember your preferences and login information
• Analyze website traffic and user behavior
• Provide personalized content and recommendations
• Enable social media features and functionality

You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings. However, disabling certain cookies may limit website functionality.

6. Your Rights

Under Canadian privacy laws, you have the right to:

• Access your personal information we hold
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal requirements)
• Opt-out of marketing communications
• File a complaint with privacy authorities
• Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent

7. Retention Period

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to:

• Provide educational services and maintain student records
• Comply with legal obligations and record-keeping requirements
• Resolve disputes and enforce our agreements

Student academic records are maintained for 7 years after graduation. Marketing communications data is retained until you unsubscribe.

8. International Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than Canada. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in accordance with this privacy policy and applicable privacy laws.

9. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under 16 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 16. If we become aware that we have collected such information, we will take steps to delete it promptly.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of significant changes by email or through our website. Your continued use of our services after changes become effective constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.