At Collent, accessible at https://www.collent.in/, your privacy is a top priority, and we are fully committed to ensuring the security and confidentiality of the personal data you entrust to us. This Privacy Policy explains in detail how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you interact with our platform. Our goal is to provide you with a transparent understanding of what data we gather, why we need it, and how we ensure it remains safe.

By using Collent, you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy. We highly encourage you to read through this policy carefully to understand how your information is handled. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a recruiter using our platform, this policy outlines the specific measures we take to protect your privacy while delivering personalized services that enhance your learning and career opportunities.

If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to reach out using the contact information provided at the end of this document.

1. Information We Collect

To provide you with the best possible services, we collect several types of personal data when you interact with our platform. The information we collect is tailored to offer personalized experiences, facilitate your professional growth, and ensure we match you with the right opportunities. Below is a breakdown of the data we may collect:

a. Personal Identifiers
  • Name: We collect your full name to create your profile, personalize communications, and connect you with relevant recruiters or internship opportunities.
  • Phone Number and Email Address: This information is crucial for account verification, password recovery, and staying in touch with you about internship updates, platform changes, and relevant services. It also allows recruiters and companies to reach out to you regarding potential opportunities, provided you have given consent.
b. Educational and Professional Information
  • Education Details: We ask for details such as your college name, the course you’re enrolled in, and your year of study. This allows us to tailor content and opportunities that are most relevant to your academic stage. For instance, final-year students may receive more internship or job-related content, while earlier-year students may get suggestions for skill-building or learning materials.
  • Resume and Portfolio Information: We collect and store your resume, portfolio links, and other professional details that you choose to upload. This information helps in presenting your qualifications to potential employers, and it forms the basis of your Collent portfolio, which can be shared with recruiters via a link.
c. Internship Preferences
  • We collect data related to your specific internship and job preferences, such as the industries you’re interested in, the roles you’re seeking, preferred location, and availability. This information helps in suggesting opportunities that align with your professional goals.
d. Usage Data and Analytics
  • While using our platform, we may collect information about how you interact with various features and services. This includes, but is not limited to, data on the pages you visit, services you use, the duration of your activity, and other related data. This helps us analyze user behavior to improve the platform’s performance, enhance user experience, and introduce features that are more relevant to your needs.
e. Future Use of Cookies and Similar Technologies
  • As part of our platform evolution (from version 5.1.1 onwards), we will implement cookies and similar tracking technologies. These will collect data related to your browsing behavior, which helps us understand how you interact with the platform. For example, cookies may help in automatically filling forms or remembering your login session, offering a smoother, more personalized user experience.
  • Users will be informed when this feature is introduced and given the option to opt-in to the use of cookies. You will also have the ability to manage your cookie preferences via your browser settings or through our website’s privacy settings.
f. Communication Data
  • We collect and store information from your interactions with us, including emails and messages sent via our platform. This data ensures smooth communication and allows us to respond to any queries or issues you may encounter.
Why We Collect This Information:
  • To Offer Personalized Services: By understanding your educational background, professional goals, and usage patterns, we can offer services and resources that are directly relevant to your journey.
  • To Connect You with Opportunities: We use your internship preferences and portfolio data to match you with recruiters and companies looking for candidates with your skillset.
  • To Improve Platform Functionality: We analyze how users interact with different sections of our platform to make enhancements, troubleshoot issues, and ensure a seamless user experience.
  • To Communicate with You: Your contact information is used to send updates about internships, learning resources, newsletters, and notifications regarding your account. You have the option to unsubscribe from marketing emails at any time.
2. How We Use Your Information

At Collent, we ensure that any information we collect is used responsibly and only for the purposes that benefit you as a user. Below is a detailed explanation of how your data is utilized across our platform to enhance your experience and connect you with valuable opportunities.

a. Connecting You with Relevant Opportunities

One of our primary services is to help students and professionals find internships, job openings, and learning opportunities that align with their skills, education, and career goals. Here’s how we use your data to make that possible:

  • Internship Matching: We analyze your academic background, skills, internship preferences, and geographic location to identify opportunities that are most suitable for you. For example, if you are a third-year engineering student looking for an internship in software development, we will prioritize showing you listings from companies seeking such candidates.
  • Portfolio Sharing: Your resume and portfolio can be shared with recruiters and startups that have relevant opportunities. You have full control over which recruiters receive your information, and we always seek your consent before sharing specific details.
b. Tailored Product and Service Recommendations

To make sure you have access to resources that support your career growth, we recommend:

  • Free Courses and Learning Materials: Based on your educational background and career interests, we recommend free online courses, learning modules, and industry-specific training to help you build essential skills.
  • Resume Templates: If you’re in need of a professional resume, we suggest templates that are tailored to your field, ensuring you have a polished and effective resume to present to potential employers.
  • Interview Preparation Tools: We offer customized interview practice tools and resources based on your role-specific and industry-specific preferences. For example, if you’re preparing for an interview in the finance sector, we may recommend scenario-based interview simulations that reflect real-world situations in finance.
c. Improving the Platform’s Functionality and User Experience

The information you provide and your interactions with Collent help us continuously improve the platform to meet your needs:

  • User Feedback and Interaction Analysis: We analyze your usage patterns, such as how frequently you use certain features (e.g., resume builders, interview simulators), to enhance functionality and introduce new features that better serve your needs. For example, if many users engage with the interview preparation tools, we may develop more advanced simulations.
  • Bug Fixes and Troubleshooting: If you encounter technical issues while using the platform, the data collected from your interactions helps our technical team diagnose the problem and implement timely fixes.
  • Personalization of the Platform: Based on your preferences, educational level, and professional goals, we personalize the interface, offering tailored content and recommendations that are relevant to you. This ensures a user experience that is as streamlined and beneficial as possible.
d. Communication and Notifications

We use your contact details (email address and phone number) to keep you informed and engaged with our platform:

  • Newsletters and Updates: We send you newsletters that highlight important updates about new features, internship opportunities, industry news, and tips for career development. These communications are designed to provide value based on your profile, but you have the option to unsubscribe at any time.
  • Service-Related Notifications: We may send you critical updates regarding your account, such as security alerts, changes to our terms or privacy policy, and important information about the status of your applications or portfolio. These notifications are mandatory for maintaining your account security and keeping you informed about key platform changes.
  • Support and Assistance: If you contact our customer support team, we use your information to respond to your inquiries and provide assistance with any issues related to your account or our services.
e. Legal Compliance and Security

We may also use your information to comply with legal obligations and ensure the security of our platform:

  • Compliance with Laws and Regulations: In some cases, we are required to process your data to comply with applicable laws, respond to legal requests, or fulfill regulatory obligations.
  • Fraud Prevention and Security: We may use your information to investigate and prevent potential fraud, misuse, or security breaches on our platform, ensuring a safe environment for all users.
3. Data Storage and Security

Ensuring the security and privacy of your data is one of our top priorities at Collent. We implement a robust set of data protection measures to ensure your personal information remains safe and secure while in our custody. Below, we outline how your data is stored, protected, and managed.

a. Data Storage Locations and Systems

All the personal data collected through Collent is securely stored in our databases within India. We comply with Indian data protection laws to ensure that your information is handled responsibly. Specifically:

  • Cloud-Based Storage: We use secure cloud storage solutions like Google Sheets and Excel for managing some aspects of user data. These platforms are protected by encryption and other security protocols that ensure your information is stored safely.
  • Data Localization: Your personal information is never transferred outside India unless explicitly stated or required by law. All data storage occurs in data centers located within India, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
b. Data Security Measures

We take extensive measures to protect your personal data from unauthorized access, misuse, alteration, and destruction. The following safeguards are in place:

  • Two-Step Verification (2FA): Access to all sensitive user data is protected by two-step verification, ensuring that even if passwords are compromised, unauthorized parties cannot access your data without the additional verification layer.
  • Password Protection: Our database files are secured with complex, long-form passwords that are known only to select high-level team members. These passwords are regularly updated, and access is strictly controlled to prevent any unauthorized access.
  • SSL Encryption: Our website uses Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption to ensure that all data transmitted between your browser and our servers is encrypted and protected from interception by malicious actors.
  • Restricted Access: Only a select group of authorized personnel have access to the most sensitive areas of our database, and all access is logged and monitored to ensure accountability.
  • Regular Security Audits: We periodically conduct security audits to identify and fix potential vulnerabilities in our systems. This proactive approach helps ensure that your data is always secure and that our defenses are up-to-date against the latest cyber threats.
c. Data Breach Prevention and Response

While we take all necessary precautions to secure your data, we recognize that no system is entirely immune to breaches. In the unlikely event of a data breach:

  • Immediate Containment: Our first step would be to contain the breach and prevent further access to sensitive data.
  • Notification of Affected Users: If your data is compromised, we will notify you promptly, explaining what happened and the steps we are taking to mitigate the effects of the breach.
  • Investigation and Remediation: Our technical team will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the breach and implement measures to prevent it from happening again.
d. Data Retention

We retain personal data for a period of four years, corresponding with the average duration of an undergraduate degree in India. After the four-year period, we securely delete your personal data unless:

  • You continue to use our services, in which case the data may be retained longer.
  • We are legally obligated to retain certain information for compliance reasons (e.g., tax, regulatory, or legal requirements).
  • You request earlier deletion (see User Rights in Section 8 for more information on how to request data deletion).

Your data is securely wiped from our systems after the retention period, ensuring that it is not accessible to anyone beyond the necessary duration.

4. Data Sharing with Third Parties

At Collent, we are committed to protecting your personal information and only share it under very specific conditions. We do not sell, rent, or trade your data to third-party organizations for marketing purposes. However, in certain cases, we may need to share your information with trusted third parties to fulfill the services we offer. Below are the detailed circumstances under which your data may be shared and the strict measures we take to protect it.

a. Sharing with Recruiters and Startups for Internship and Job Opportunities

One of the key services we provide is connecting students and professionals with recruiters and startups. To facilitate this process, we may share certain personal information with these third parties, but only under the following conditions:

  • Explicit User Consent: We will always seek your permission before sharing any of your personal details (e.g., resume, portfolio, education details) with potential employers. You have full control over which recruiters or companies gain access to your profile.
  • Relevance of Data Shared: We only share the specific data necessary for the recruitment process. For example, if a company is looking for an intern in the marketing field, we may share your marketing-related skills, internship preferences, and contact information, but not unrelated information.
  • Verified and Legitimate Organizations: We take great care in verifying the legitimacy and compliance of the recruiters and startups we work with. Before sharing your information, we ensure that the third party operates in accordance with applicable laws and maintains strong data protection practices. We conduct regular checks to confirm the authenticity and credibility of these organizations.
b. Service Providers and Partners

In some cases, we collaborate with service providers who help us manage certain features of the platform, such as cloud storage, email delivery systems, or analytical tools. These service providers may have limited access to your personal data, but this is strictly for the purpose of enhancing our platform’s performance and functionality:

  • Data Processing Partners: We may work with trusted third-party vendors who provide services such as database management, website hosting, or customer support. These partners may need access to limited amounts of personal data to perform their services, but they are contractually obligated to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to high standards of data security.
  • Analytics and Performance Monitoring: We may use analytics tools to help us better understand how users interact with our platform. These tools may collect anonymous usage data to help us improve our services. However, this information is not linked to your personal identity and cannot be used to identify you individually.
c. Legal Obligations and Protection of Rights

We may disclose your personal information if required by law, or if we believe such action is necessary to:

  • Comply with Legal Processes: This includes responding to court orders, legal claims, or government inquiries. In such cases, we will only share the information that is legally required and will make every effort to inform you, unless prohibited by law.
  • Prevent Harm or Fraud: We may share data to protect and defend our rights, property, or the safety of Collent users. This includes investigating potential violations of our Terms of Service or preventing fraudulent activities on our platform.
d. No Unauthorized Data Sharing

Under no circumstances will we share your personal data with any unauthorized or illegitimate third parties. We prioritize the safety of your information and ensure that any third-party interactions are fully transparent, secure, and compliant with legal standards.

5. Cookies Policy

As of the current version of our platform, Collent does not use cookies or any other tracking technologies to collect data about your browsing habits. However, as part of our upcoming updates (expected in version 5.1.1 or later), we plan to introduce cookies to improve user experience and provide more personalized services. Here’s what you can expect:

a. What are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device when you visit a website. They help websites recognize your device and can improve your experience by remembering preferences, login details, or previous interactions with the platform. Cookies can also provide valuable data to website administrators to help enhance the performance of their services.

b. Why We Plan to Use Cookies

We plan to implement cookies for several reasons:

  • Enhanced User Experience: Cookies will allow us to remember your preferences, such as login sessions, language settings, or previously viewed content, so that you don’t have to re-enter information each time you visit our site.
  • Faster Access to Services: By remembering your credentials, cookies will allow for faster access to your Collent account without requiring you to repeatedly input your login information.
  • Personalized Content and Recommendations: Cookies will help us analyze your interactions with the platform, such as the types of services you engage with most frequently. Based on this information, we can provide you with tailored internship suggestions, learning materials, or notifications relevant to your professional growth.
c. Types of Cookies We Will Use

Once implemented, we may use the following types of cookies:

  • Session Cookies: These are temporary cookies that remain on your device only while you are logged into your Collent account. They are used to maintain your session and expire as soon as you log out or close your browser.
  • Persistent Cookies: These cookies remain on your device for a longer period and help us remember your login details or preferences across multiple visits to the site.
  • Analytical/Performance Cookies: These cookies allow us to collect anonymous data about how users interact with the platform. For example, they help us understand which pages are most popular, how users navigate the site, and whether users experience any technical issues. This data is used to improve the functionality and performance of the platform.
d. Managing Cookies

When we introduce cookies on Collent, you will be given full control over whether you want to accept or decline them. Upon your first visit after the update, you will be prompted with a cookie consent banner that provides information about the types of cookies we use and their purposes. You will have the option to:

  • Accept All Cookies: This will allow us to use all types of cookies for a fully personalized and seamless experience.
  • Manage Cookie Preferences: You can choose which types of cookies you want to allow or block, based on your privacy preferences. For example, you may choose to block analytical cookies while still allowing essential cookies for login sessions.
  • Opt-Out of Cookies Entirely: You can decline all cookies, but please note that this may affect certain functionalities of the platform, such as remembering your login credentials or offering personalized recommendations.

Additionally, you can manage your cookie settings at any time by adjusting your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies, and you can also choose to receive notifications when cookies are being set. Please refer to your browser’s help section for more detailed instructions on managing cookies.

e. Third-Party Cookies

We will only use first-party cookies (those set directly by Collent) on our platform. We do not currently allow third-party cookies from advertisers or unrelated services to collect data about your browsing activities. If this policy changes in the future, you will be notified in advance, and we will provide clear options for opting out of such tracking.

6. Email Communication

At Collent, email communication is one of the primary ways we keep you informed about our services, updates, and other important information related to your account and career development. However, we understand that not all users may want to receive non-essential communications, and we respect your preferences regarding email marketing and notifications. Below is a detailed explanation of how we use email for communication, what kind of emails you may receive, and how you can manage your email preferences.

a. Types of Emails We Send

We may send the following types of emails to users registered on the Collent platform:

  • Account-Related Emails: These are essential communications related to your account, such as registration confirmation, password reset instructions, security alerts, or important notices about changes to our terms, services, or privacy policy. Because these emails are crucial for maintaining your account and ensuring your security, you cannot unsubscribe from these communications.
  • Service-Related Emails: These emails include important information about services you have requested or used on Collent, such as internship application confirmations, interview preparation tips, and access to portfolio-building resources. These emails are designed to assist you in utilizing our platform effectively and are tailored to the services you engage with.
  • Newsletters and Educational Materials: We regularly send newsletters containing career advice, learning materials, and updates about new features or courses available on Collent. This content is curated to help you stay informed about the latest trends in your industry, improve your skills, and maximize the value you get from our platform.
  • Promotional Emails and Offers: Occasionally, we may send you promotional emails about new products, services, or special offers available on Collent. These emails may include limited-time offers, partnerships, or discounts on premium features, resume templates, or learning resources. If you prefer not to receive these emails, you have the option to opt-out at any time.
b. How We Collect Your Email Information

Your email address is collected during your registration process or when you fill out a form to access any of our services, such as portfolio building, resume templates, or applying for internships. We only collect your email for legitimate purposes related to your usage of the platform, and we do not share your email address with third parties for marketing purposes unless you have explicitly consented.

c. Managing Your Email Preferences

We value your privacy and understand that you may not want to receive certain types of communications. Here are the ways you can manage your email preferences:

  • Unsubscribing from Promotional Emails: If you no longer wish to receive newsletters, promotional emails, or special offers, you can easily unsubscribe by clicking the “unsubscribe” link at the bottom of any promotional email. Once you unsubscribe, you will no longer receive marketing communications but will continue to receive essential account-related emails.
  • Changing Preferences in Your Account Settings: You can manage your email communication preferences directly within your Collent account settings. This allows you to specify which types of emails you would like to receive, and you can opt in or out of specific categories like newsletters, service updates, or promotions.
  • Contacting Us Directly: If you are having trouble managing your preferences or need assistance unsubscribing from a particular type of email, feel free to contact us at [insert contact email], and we will assist you in updating your preferences promptly.
d. Opting Back In

If you have previously unsubscribed from receiving emails and later decide that you would like to receive them again, you can easily re-subscribe through your account settings or by contacting us directly.

e. Respecting Your Privacy

We handle your email communications with the utmost care and do not bombard users with unnecessary or irrelevant emails. Your email address will only be used for the purposes you have agreed to, and we adhere strictly to all applicable laws, including anti-spam regulations.

7. Data Retention

At Collent, we take data retention policies seriously to ensure that your personal information is only kept for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected. Our retention practices are designed to balance the need for maintaining relevant data to offer high-quality services while also respecting your privacy and compliance with legal obligations. This section outlines how long we retain different types of data, the reasons for retaining data for a specified period, and what happens to your data after the retention period expires.

a. Retention Period for Personal Data

We retain your personal data for a period of four years, which aligns with the typical duration of academic degrees in India. This period is chosen because our platform is primarily focused on students and young professionals who use Collent for internships, career development, and educational resources during their academic journey. By keeping the data for this period, we can:

  • Ensure Continuity of Service: Keeping your data for four years allows us to provide continuous access to your portfolio, educational history, and previous internship applications throughout your degree program. This also makes it easier for you to reapply for new internships, update your resume, and track your career progress over time.
  • Facilitate Long-Term Career Support: Even after graduation, many users continue to rely on Collent for job-seeking advice, skills development, and career-building tools. Retaining your data for this period ensures that you have access to your profile, including portfolios and past achievements, as you transition from student to professional.
b. What Happens After the Retention Period

At the end of the four-year retention period, we will securely delete or anonymize your personal data, except where it is necessary to retain certain information for legal reasons, ongoing services, or for account reactivation. Specifically:

  • Automatic Data Deletion: After four years, all personal data that is no longer needed (e.g., old portfolios, resumes, internship applications) will be permanently deleted from our databases. This ensures that we do not retain unnecessary data longer than required.
  • Anonymization: In some cases, we may anonymize your data for statistical and research purposes. Anonymized data cannot be linked back to you personally and may be used to analyze trends, improve our services, and compile aggregated reports.
c. Data Retention for Specific Use Cases
  • Job Applications and Internship Records: Information related to job applications or internship applications (e.g., resume, contact details, and communication with recruiters) will be retained for up to four years to allow for future reference and continuous job-seeking opportunities.
  • Learning and Skill Development Records: If you use our platform to access learning materials, such as courses or interview preparation tools, we may retain your course progress and related data for the same period to enable you to continue your learning journey.
d. Early Data Deletion Requests

We understand that some users may want to delete their data before the end of the four-year period. As a user, you have the right to request the deletion of your personal data at any time. Here’s how it works:

  • Requesting Deletion: You can request data deletion by contacting us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or by emailing us at mailcollent@gmail.com | Our team will promptly assist in processing your request. Upon receiving your request, we will delete your data within a reasonable timeframe, typically within 30 days, unless there are legal reasons to retain it.
  • Impact of Data Deletion: Please note that once your data is deleted, you will no longer have access to your Collent account or any of the services associated with it. Deleted data cannot be recovered, so we advise users to carefully consider the impact before submitting a deletion request.
e. Exceptions for Legal and Compliance Purposes

In certain situations, we may be required to retain your data beyond the typical retention period to comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, or enforce our terms and policies. For example:

  • Legal Compliance: We may retain records of transactions or user interactions to comply with tax regulations, employment laws, or other legal requirements. In such cases, the retention of data will be limited strictly to what is necessary and only for as long as legally mandated.
  • Fraud Prevention and Security Monitoring: If there is any indication of fraud, misuse of our platform, or a violation of our terms, we may retain relevant information to investigate and take appropriate action.
8. User Rights

At Collent, we respect and uphold your rights as a user, ensuring that you maintain full control over your personal data. In compliance with applicable data protection laws, we provide you with various rights that allow you to manage how your information is collected, used, and stored. This section outlines the rights you have concerning your data and how you can exercise these rights on our platform.

a. Right to Access

You have the right to request a copy of the personal information we hold about you at any time. This includes all the data you have provided during the registration process, while creating your portfolio, applying for internships, or using any of our services.

  • How to Request Access: To access your personal data, you can contact us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com | Upon verifying your identity, we will provide a detailed account of the information we have stored about you, including your profile data, resume, academic details, and internship application history.
  • Timeframe for Access Requests: We aim to fulfill access requests within 30 days of receiving your request. However, depending on the complexity of the request or the volume of information, it may take longer. If this is the case, we will notify you of any delays.
b. Right to Correction

If any of the personal information we hold about you is inaccurate or outdated, you have the right to request its correction. We encourage you to review your profile regularly and update any incorrect details to ensure that your portfolio and application materials are current and accurate.

  • How to Correct Your Data: You can update most of your personal details (such as your name, education, and resume) directly by logging into your Collent account and navigating to your profile settings. If you need further assistance, our support team is available to help you via WhatsApp or email.
  • Automatic Updates: In cases where your profile is linked to third-party services (e.g., LinkedIn for professional information), we may periodically synchronize your profile with those services to ensure consistency and accuracy.
c. Right to Deletion (Right to Be Forgotten)

You have the right to request the deletion of your personal information at any time. This means that you can choose to have all your data removed from our systems, including your profile, portfolios, internship applications, and any other related data.

  • How to Request Data Deletion: To delete your account and all associated data, simply contact us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com | Once we receive your request, we will permanently delete your data from our systems within 30 days, unless there are legal reasons to retain it.
  • Consequences of Data Deletion: Please note that once your data is deleted, you will lose access to your Collent account and all services, including any stored portfolios, resume templates, or records of internship applications. This action is irreversible, so we advise you to consider the decision carefully before proceeding.
d. Right to Object to Data Processing

In certain circumstances, you may have the right to object to how we process your personal data. For example, if you believe that we are using your data for purposes other than those explicitly stated in this Privacy Policy or if you feel your data is being used unlawfully, you can request that we cease processing your data.

  • How to Object: If you wish to object to the processing of your data, you can contact our support team via WhatsApp or email, and we will review your request. If your objection is valid, we will cease processing your data for the disputed purposes while we investigate further.
e. Right to Data Portability

You also have the right to request the transfer of your personal data to another service provider or platform. This allows you to move your data easily if you wish to use a different service for career development or portfolio building.

  • How Data Portability Works: Upon request, we will provide you with your data in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format, so that it can be transferred to another service provider.
f. How to Exercise Your Rights

To exercise any of your rights, simply contact us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com | We will take the necessary steps to verify your identity before processing your request to ensure that your personal data is kept secure.

9. Protection of Minors

At Collent, the safety and privacy of minors are paramount. Our platform is primarily designed for students aged 16 and above, with a focus on helping high school students, college students, and young professionals build their careers. We do not knowingly collect or process personal information from children under the age of 16 without parental consent, in compliance with applicable data protection laws such as India’s Information Technology (IT) Act and other international privacy regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union.

a. Age Requirement for Use of Collent

Collent’s services, including portfolio building, internship applications, and career development tools, are targeted at users who are at least 16 years old. By registering for an account or using our services, you confirm that you meet this age requirement. If we learn that a user under 16 has registered without parental consent, we will take appropriate steps to remove their personal information and delete their account.

b. Parental Consent for Minors

For students under the age of 16, parental consent is required before registering for Collent or sharing any personal information on the platform. Parents or guardians must provide explicit consent, acknowledging their understanding of the data collection and processing activities associated with using Collent. Without such consent, minors will not be allowed to create an account or engage with the platform.

  • How We Verify Parental Consent: We may request verification from a parent or guardian via email or another form of communication before a minor’s data is processed. In cases where parental consent is required, we will provide clear instructions on how to submit consent during the registration process.
c. How We Handle Information from Minors

If it comes to our attention that we have inadvertently collected personal information from a child under the age of 16 without parental consent, we will take immediate action to delete that information. This includes:

  • Deleting Personal Information: We will promptly delete any personal data collected from a child, including their profile, portfolios, and any submitted internship applications.
  • Contacting the Parent or Guardian: If necessary, we will inform the parent or guardian about the situation and ensure they are aware of the steps taken to protect their child’s privacy.
d. Educational Resources for Younger Users

While our platform is primarily aimed at students aged 16 and above, we understand that younger students may also benefit from certain career development resources. We encourage younger users to access these resources under parental supervision. In such cases, the parent or guardian is responsible for managing their child’s interactions with the platform, ensuring that all activities align with privacy regulations.

e. Commitment to Child Protection Laws

We are committed to complying with all relevant child protection and data privacy laws, both in India and internationally. If you have any concerns about the use of personal data from minors on our platform, please contact us immediately via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com | We take all reports seriously and will investigate and address any issues promptly.

10. International Users

Collent is based in Bangalore, Karnataka, India, and primarily operates in compliance with Indian data protection laws, such as the Information Technology (IT) Act and relevant guidelines issued by the Government of India. However, we understand that users may access our platform from outside India, which means international users must be aware of how their personal data is handled when using our services.

a. Data Transfer to India

When you use our services, your personal information will be transferred to, stored, and processed in India, where our servers and data storage systems are located. Indian data privacy regulations govern how your data is collected, stored, and protected. By using Collent from outside India, you consent to the transfer of your personal data to our servers in India.

  • Legal Basis for Data Transfer: The legal basis for transferring data is the user’s consent, as well as the performance of a contract between the user and Collent (such as creating a portfolio, applying for internships, or using our career development resources).
b. Compliance with Local Laws

We strive to adhere to applicable local and international data protection laws, including regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for users in the European Union and other relevant privacy laws around the world.

  • GDPR Compliance (for EU Users): Under the GDPR, you have additional data protection rights, including the right to lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority if you believe we are violating your privacy rights. We ensure that international data transfers comply with the GDPR by using legally recognized transfer mechanisms, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs).
  • Other International Compliance: For users from countries outside India and the EU, we strive to comply with the privacy regulations in your jurisdiction. By using our platform, you agree to the collection, processing, and storage of your data in India under the legal framework that governs our operations.
c. Cross-Border Data Protection

While your data is stored in India, we employ robust security measures to protect it from unauthorized access, breaches, or misuse, regardless of where you are accessing our platform from. We are committed to providing a high level of data protection, comparable to the standards set by international regulations, ensuring that your information remains secure throughout its lifecycle.

d. Your Rights as an International User

As an international user, you have the same rights concerning your personal data as those outlined for all users in Section 8 of this Privacy Policy, including the right to access, correction, deletion, and portability of your data. We make every effort to accommodate international users’ requests promptly and in compliance with the relevant data protection laws applicable to their location.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the handling of your personal data as an international user, you can contact us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com

11. Data Security Measures

At Collent, ensuring the security of your personal data is one of our highest priorities. We have implemented multiple layers of security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, alteration, or loss. This section outlines the security protocols we use to safeguard your data and ensure its privacy.

a. Two-Step Verification for Data Access

We use two-step verification (2FA) to control access to our systems and sensitive databases. This means that even if someone were to obtain a team member’s password, they would still need a second form of authentication (such as a mobile device) to access user data.

  • How 2FA Works: Each time a high-level team member accesses sensitive databases or administrative accounts, they must verify their identity by entering a code sent to their registered mobile device or email address. This ensures that unauthorized access is prevented, even if passwords are compromised.
b. Password Protection

All personal information stored on our platform, including user profiles, portfolios, and internship application data, is protected by unique, long, and complex passwords. Only a select group of authorized, high-level team members have access to these passwords.

  • Password Management: We regularly update our passwords and employ password management best practices to ensure maximum security. All team members are required to use strong, complex passwords that adhere to industry standards, making it difficult for unauthorized users to access our systems.
c. SSL Encryption

Our website is protected by SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption, which ensures that any data transmitted between your browser and our servers is encrypted and secure. SSL encryption protects sensitive information (such as login credentials, resumes, and portfolios) from being intercepted by malicious third parties during transmission.

  • How SSL Protects You: When you visit Collent and log into your account, your connection to our website is encrypted using SSL. This means that even if someone were to intercept the data being transmitted, they would not be able to read or modify it, ensuring your information remains confidential and secure.
d. Restricted Access to Data

We restrict access to personal data on a need-to-know basis. Only authorized team members who require access to perform specific tasks (such as assisting users with account management or troubleshooting technical issues) are allowed to view or handle your personal data.

  • Monitoring and Auditing: We monitor all data access requests and maintain detailed logs of who accesses user data and why. These logs are periodically audited to ensure that data access policies are strictly followed, and unauthorized access attempts are immediately flagged and addressed.
e. Regular Security Audits and Updates

We conduct regular security audits to identify and fix any potential vulnerabilities in our systems. These audits include testing for weaknesses in our databases, website, and data storage systems, as well as ensuring that our password protection and two-step verification protocols are up to date.

  • Keeping Security Measures Updated: As part of our ongoing commitment to data security, we stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and adopt new security technologies and practices as needed. This proactive approach helps us stay ahead of potential risks and keep your data safe.
f. Incident Response and Breach Notification

Despite our best efforts, no method of data transmission or storage is completely secure. In the unlikely event of a data breach or security incident, we have a detailed incident response plan in place.

  • Breach Notification: If a breach occurs and there is a risk to your personal data, we will notify you as soon as possible, in compliance with applicable data protection laws. Our team will take immediate steps to contain the breach, mitigate its impact, and ensure that affected users receive the support they need to protect their information.
g. Your Role in Data Security

While we work hard to secure your data, we also encourage users to take an active role in protecting their personal information. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure your data remains secure:

  • Create Strong Passwords: Use a strong, unique password for your Collent account and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. A combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols is recommended.
  • Enable Two-Step Verification: If available, enable two-step verification (2FA) for your account to add an extra layer of security.
  • Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts: Be wary of emails or messages that ask you for your login credentials or personal information. Collent will never ask for your password via email or other insecure methods.

By following these practices and relying on the robust security measures we have in place, you can help ensure the protection of your personal data while using our platform.

12. Compliance with Legal Obligations

At Collent, we are committed to operating in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations concerning the collection, processing, and storage of personal data. This commitment ensures that we uphold your privacy rights while meeting our legal obligations. This section outlines the circumstances under which we may disclose your personal information and our obligations to comply with legal requests.

a. Legal Compliance

We may be required to disclose your personal information in response to valid legal requests, such as subpoenas, court orders, or other legal processes. This may include, but is not limited to:

  • Government Requests: If a governmental authority requests access to your personal data, we will comply when legally obligated to do so. This includes requests from law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, or other government entities.
  • Legal Proceedings: In the event of litigation, arbitration, or other legal proceedings, we may be compelled to provide personal information as part of the legal discovery process.
b. Protection of Rights and Safety

We may also disclose your personal information when we believe such action is necessary to protect the rights, property, or safety of Collent, our users, or others. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Preventing Harm: If we believe that your actions, or the actions of others, may pose a threat to the safety of individuals or the security of our platform, we may take action to prevent such harm. This could include sharing information with relevant authorities to prevent fraud, illegal activities, or other harmful actions.
  • Defending Our Rights: If necessary, we may disclose personal information to defend our rights and interests, including enforcing our terms of service, protecting our intellectual property, or pursuing legal remedies in the event of a dispute.
c. Cooperation with Regulatory Authorities

We are committed to cooperating with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with data protection laws and to respond to any concerns regarding our data handling practices. This includes:

  • Data Protection Authorities: We may be required to submit reports or provide information to data protection authorities in response to inquiries or investigations regarding our data processing activities.
  • User Complaints: If you have a concern about how we handle your personal data, you have the right to lodge a complaint with the relevant data protection authority in your jurisdiction. We will cooperate fully with any investigations or inquiries arising from such complaints.
d. Disclosure in Business Transfers

In the event of a merger, acquisition, reorganization, or sale of all or a portion of our assets, your personal information may be transferred as part of that business transaction. In such cases:

  • Notification: We will notify you via email or prominent notice on our website prior to the transfer and become subject to a different privacy policy if applicable.
  • Assurances of Protection: We will ensure that any third party receiving your personal data is committed to upholding the same data protection standards outlined in this Privacy Policy and complies with applicable legal obligations.
e. Maintaining Records for Legal Purposes

We may retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with our legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. This includes retaining information:

  • For Legal Obligations: To comply with applicable laws and regulations, we may need to retain certain data for specific periods, even after you have deleted your account.
  • To Support Legal Claims: We may keep information that could be relevant to future legal proceedings, investigations, or to establish or defend our rights.
f. Your Consent and Choices

In some cases, we may seek your consent to disclose your personal information. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time, subject to the legal limitations that may apply. If you choose to withdraw your consent, it may affect our ability to provide certain services or features.

If you have any questions about our compliance with legal obligations or how we handle your personal information in response to legal requests, please contact us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com | We are committed to ensuring that your privacy rights are respected and upheld.

13. Modifications and Updates to This Privacy Policy

At Collent, we recognize the importance of transparency regarding how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. As such, we may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, legal requirements, or advancements in technology. This section outlines how we manage changes to the Privacy Policy and how we communicate those changes to you.

a. Periodic Review and Updates

We regularly review and may update this Privacy Policy to ensure it accurately reflects our data processing practices and complies with applicable laws. Updates may be necessary due to:

  • Changes in Legislation: Amendments to data protection laws or regulations that impact how we collect, use, or store personal information.
  • Operational Changes: Modifications to our services, features, or data processing activities that require us to revise our privacy practices.
  • Technological Advancements: New technologies or methods for data collection and processing that enhance user privacy and security.
b. Notification of Changes

When we make significant changes to this Privacy Policy, we will notify you in several ways:

  • Email Notification: If you have provided us with your email address, we will send you a notification detailing the changes and their implications for your personal information.
  • Website Notice: We will post a prominent notice on our website to inform all users of the changes to the Privacy Policy, along with the revised “Effective Date.”
  • User Consent (If Required): In some cases, we may seek your explicit consent to the changes, especially if they involve new uses of your personal information or different data-sharing practices.
c. Effective Date of Changes

The revised Privacy Policy will become effective on the date indicated at the top of the policy as the “Effective Date.” Your continued use of the Collent platform following the publication of any changes constitutes your acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy. It is your responsibility to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any updates or changes.

d. Access to the Privacy Policy

The latest version of our Privacy Policy will always be available on our website at [insert URL]. You can view and review the Privacy Policy at any time to stay informed about how we are protecting your personal information.

e. Your Rights After Changes

If you do not agree with the changes made to this Privacy Policy, you have the right to stop using our services and request the deletion of your personal information. Instructions on how to delete your account and data can be found in Section 8: User Rights of this Privacy Policy.

If you have any questions about the modifications to this Privacy Policy or how they may affect your personal data, please contact us via WhatsApp at 8217720156 or email us at mailcollent@gmail.com | We value your privacy and are committed to maintaining open communication regarding our data protection practices.

14. Contact Information

We value your privacy and are committed to addressing any questions, concerns, or requests you may have regarding this Privacy Policy or our practices concerning your personal information. If you would like to reach out to us, please use the following contact information:

a. How to Reach Us

You can contact us through the following methods:

  • WhatsApp: 8217720156
    For quick inquiries or support, feel free to reach out via WhatsApp. Our team is available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your personal information or our services.

  • Email: mailcollent@gmail.com
    For more detailed inquiries or if you prefer written communication, you can email us at the provided contact email. We aim to respond to all email inquiries promptly, typically within 1-2 business days.

  • Mailing Address:
    Collent
    Electronic City, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
    If you wish to send us physical correspondence, please address it to the above mailing address. Please note that response times may vary for mail correspondence.

b. What to Include in Your Communication

When contacting us, please provide the following information to help us address your inquiry effectively:

  • Your name and contact information (email or phone number).
  • A clear description of your question or concern.
  • Any relevant details regarding your account or the specific issue you are inquiring about.
c. Data Protection Officer (DPO)

In line with best practices for data protection, we have designated a Data Protection Officer (DPO) to oversee our compliance with data protection laws and regulations. If you have specific questions about how we handle your personal information or wish to exercise your rights regarding your data, you can reach out to our DPO directly at [DPO’s Email Address].

d. Your Feedback Matters

We encourage users to provide feedback on this Privacy Policy and our data handling practices. Your input is invaluable in helping us improve our services and ensure that we meet your privacy expectations. If you have suggestions or recommendations, please share them with us through any of the contact methods listed above.

e. Follow-Up and Support

If you have reached out to us and do not receive a timely response or if you have further inquiries, please do not hesitate to follow up. We are dedicated to ensuring that your concerns are addressed, and we appreciate your patience as we work to provide you with the best possible support.

Thank you for trusting Collent with your personal information. We are committed to safeguarding your data and ensuring a positive experience while using our platform.