Introduction
Welcome to Asante (asante.co.ke). Asante is a digital platform that enables individuals to send and receive tips through secure digital payment channels, including mobile money and other payment services.
Your privacy is important to us. This policy applies when you use our:
- Website (asante.co.ke)
- Mobile applications
- Mini-apps hosted on M-Pesa Super App
- USSD or messaging integrations
- Payment and tipping services
This policy complies with the Kenya Data Protection Act, 2019, and applicable international privacy standards.
Information We Collect
We collect different types of information to provide and improve our services.
2.1 Personal Information
When you register or interact with the platform, we may collect:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Identification information (where required for verification)
- Business or workplace information (for service staff and pool tipping)
- Profile photo (optional)
2.2 Payment Information
When processing tips or payments, we may collect:
- Mobile money account details (e.g., M-Pesa number)
- Transaction reference numbers
- Payment confirmation data
- Billing or payout information
2.3 Usage and Device Information
We may collect technical information such as IP address, device type, browser information, operating system, app usage data, cookies, and session identifiers. This helps improve system performance and prevent fraud.
2.4 Location Data
If you use certain services, we may collect approximate location information to validate transactions, improve service availability, and prevent fraudulent activity.
How We Use Your Information
3.1 Service Delivery
- Register users and generate Asante Tip Codes
- Process tipping transactions
- Send payment confirmations
- Facilitate payouts to service staff
3.2 Platform Improvement
- Monitor system performance
- Improve features and usability
- Develop new services
3.3 Communication
- Transaction alerts
- Customer support responses
- Security notifications
- Service updates
3.4 Fraud Prevention
- Detect suspicious transactions
- Prevent misuse of the platform
- Protect users and merchants
3.5 Legal and Regulatory Compliance
- Kenyan financial regulations
- Anti-fraud and anti-money laundering laws
- Court orders or lawful requests
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
Asante uses cookies and similar technologies to:
- Maintain secure login sessions
- Improve website functionality
- Analyze traffic and usage patterns
Users may disable cookies through their browser settings, although some features may not function correctly.
Sharing of Information
5.1 Payment Service Providers
For processing transactions, including mobile money platforms (e.g., M-Pesa) and payment gateways.
5.2 Technology Service Providers
Including cloud hosting providers, analytics services, and security monitoring systems.
5.3 Regulatory Authorities
Where required by law or regulatory obligations. All partners must comply with strict data protection and confidentiality obligations.
Data Storage and Security
We implement industry-standard security controls to protect your data, including:
- Encryption of sensitive data
- Secure server infrastructure
- Access control and authentication
- Continuous monitoring and logging
- Protection against unauthorized access
Despite these measures, no internet transmission is completely secure.
Data Retention
We retain personal information only as long as necessary for service delivery, financial record-keeping, and legal or regulatory compliance. After this period, data may be securely deleted or anonymized.
Your Rights
Under the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019), users have the right to:
Access their personal data
Request correction of inaccurate data
Request deletion of personal information
Object to certain processing activities
Withdraw consent where applicable
Requests may be submitted through the contact details in Section 12.
Children's Privacy
Asante services are not intended for individuals under the age of 18 without parental or guardian consent. If we become aware that personal data of a minor has been collected without consent, it will be deleted promptly.
Third-Party Links
The website may contain links to third-party websites or services. Asante is not responsible for the privacy practices of external sites. Users should review the privacy policies of those services independently.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in legal requirements, updates to our services, or improvements to privacy practices. Updated versions will be posted on asante.co.ke with a revised effective date.
Contact Information
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how your data is handled, please contact us:
Data Controller
You may also contact the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) Kenya if you believe your data rights have been violated.