Privacy Policy
Last updated: June 2026
This Privacy Policy describes how PhenoWriters ("we", "our", or "us") collects, uses, and discloses your personal information when you use our marketplace platform.
1. Information We Collect
Account information. When you register, we collect your name, email address, and a password (stored as a bcrypt hash). Experts may additionally provide a biography, CV, and payment details.
Order information. When placing an order, we collect project descriptions, file attachments, and communication with your assigned expert. This data is necessary to provide our service.
Payment information. All payments are processed through Paystack. We do not collect or store credit card numbers. Paystack may share transaction status and the last four digits of your card with us for record-keeping.
Usage data. We collect basic analytics such as page views, browser type, and IP address to improve our platform and diagnose technical issues.
Cookies. We use session cookies for authentication and persistent cookies to remember your live chat session preferences. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, though some features may not function properly.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Operate, maintain, and improve the platform
- Match orders with suitable experts
- Process payments and payouts
- Communicate with you about your orders, account, and support requests
- Detect and prevent fraud or abuse
- Comply with legal obligations
3. Information Sharing
We share your information only in the following circumstances:
- With experts: When you place an order, your project description and communications are shared with the assigned expert.
- With Paystack: Payment information is transmitted directly to Paystack for processing.
- When required by law: We may disclose information in response to a valid legal request.
We never sell your personal information to third parties.
4. Data Retention
We retain your account information for as long as your account is active. Order records, messages, and project files are retained for service continuity and legal record-keeping. You may request deletion of your account by contacting us; certain records may be retained as required by law.
5. Data Security
We implement industry-standard security measures, including HTTPS encryption, bcrypt password hashing, and regular security audits. Payment data is handled entirely by Paystack, which is PCI-DSS compliant. Despite these measures, no online service can guarantee absolute security.
6. Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Access the personal data we hold about you
- Request correction of inaccurate data
- Request deletion of your account and associated data
- Object to or restrict certain processing
- Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent
To exercise these rights, please contact us.
7. Third-Party Services
Our platform integrates with Paystack for payment processing. Paystack's privacy policy applies to any information you provide directly through their checkout interface. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of third parties.
8. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Material changes will be announced via the platform. Continued use of the service after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
9. Contact
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us.