Privacy Policy

Voluntary Nature Conservancy (“VNC”, “we”, “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy details how we collect, handle, and safeguard your data across our website and the Croc Watch mobile application.

1. Information We Collect

  • Personal Information: Name, email address, contact phone number, and payment confirmation details provided during event registration. (Note: We do not store credit card or bank credentials; all transactions are processed via secure, encrypted payment gateways).
  • Device & Technical Data: Device model, OS version, and diagnostic logs to troubleshoot app crashes and improve stability.

2. Sensitive Permissions & Mobile App Data (Croc Watch)

The Croc Watch app requires specific permissions to fulfill its scientific citizen-science mapping function:

  • Precise GPS Location: The app collects precise location coordinates only to geotag crocodile sightings.
  • Foreground Access: GPS is accessed strictly while you are actively submitting a field report.
  • No Background Tracking: The Croc Watch app never tracks or collects your location in the background when the app is closed.
  • Camera & Media: Accessed only if you choose to take a photo or attach an image from your gallery to a sighting report.

3. How We Use Your Data

  • Event Operations: To confirm your place, issue entry passes, and share event itineraries.
  • Conservation Science: Geotagged sighting reports, observation times, and habitat photos are compiled by VNC for ecological analysis and wildlife management.
  • Communication: To send you survey findings, certificates of participation, and critical event updates.

4. Data Sharing & Protection

  • We never sell, lease, or monetize your personal data.
  • Data is shared only with verified service providers who assist with payment gateway processing, transactional email delivery, or data hosting under strict confidentiality agreements.

5. Research Data & Account Deletion

You have the right to request the deletion of your personal data at any time:

  • Personal Identifiable Information (PII): Upon request, we will permanently purge your name, email, phone number, and profile records from our active systems.
  • Scientific Research Records: Crocodile sighting data (GPS points, animal counts, timestamps) are part of a continuous scientific ecological archive. These records are permanently anonymized (all connections to your personal identity are completely severed) and retained for long-term conservation research.

To request data deletion, email info@vncindia.org with the subject line: “Data Deletion Request”.

6. Contact Us

For any privacy-related questions: