Velosta (“we”, “our”, or “us”) is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website and use our services.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

Account information: name, email address, and password when you register an account.
Profile information: optional avatar and travel preferences you provide.
Usage data: pages visited, features used, and interactions with the platform (collected automatically).
Device information: browser type, IP address, and operating system for security and analytics.
Third-party sign-in data: if you sign in with Google, we receive your name, email, and profile picture from Google.

2. How We Use Your Information

To create and manage your account.
To provide, operate, and improve our services.
To send transactional emails (sign-up confirmations, login codes).
To send you weekly blog digests and marketing communications — only if you opted in. You may unsubscribe at any time.
To detect and prevent fraud or abuse.
To comply with applicable laws and regulations.

3. How We Share Your Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share your data with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating our platform (hosting, email delivery, analytics) under strict confidentiality agreements. We may also disclose your information when required by law.

4. Email Communications

We send the following types of emails:

Transactional: account creation confirmation, login OTP codes. These are required for account security and cannot be opted out of while your account is active.
Marketing / Blog digest: weekly travel stories and content. You can opt in during sign-up or opt out at any time via the unsubscribe link in any marketing email.

5. Data Retention

We retain your personal data for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide you services. You may request deletion of your account and associated data by contacting us at support@velosta.com.

6. Cookies & Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to keep you signed in and to understand how the platform is used. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some features may not function correctly without them.

7. Security

We implement industry-standard security measures including encrypted data storage (AES-256), HTTPS-only transmission, and JWT-based authentication. No transmission method over the internet is 100% secure; we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your data.

8. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you become aware that a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us.

9. Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have rights to access, correct, delete, or restrict processing of your personal data. To exercise these rights, contact us at support@velosta.com.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by posting the new policy on this page with an updated date. Continued use of Velosta after changes constitutes your acceptance of the revised policy.

11. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at support@velosta.com.