NextSteps Companion – Privacy Policy

Last updated: [Insert Date]

This Privacy Policy explains how [Your Company Name] (“we”, “us”, or “our”) collects, uses, discloses, and protects your personal information when you use the NextSteps Companion mobile application, website, and related services (collectively, the “Service”).

By using the Service, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use immediately.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information to deliver, improve, and protect our Service. The types of information we collect include:

a) Information You Provide Directly

Name, email address, and contact information when you create an account or communicate with us.

Organization or funeral home details (if applicable).

Case information you voluntarily upload, such as family names, service dates, and arrangements.

Payment details (if applicable) processed through secure third-party providers.

b) Information Automatically Collected

Device information (such as browser type, operating system, and IP address).

Usage data, including app interactions, pages viewed, and session duration.

Cookies and similar technologies that help us analyze usage and improve performance.

c) Information from Third Parties

If you sign in through an organization, funeral home, or vendor link, we may receive limited information from that partner (such as your name and access role).

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your data to:

Provide, operate, and improve the NextSteps Companion Service.

Facilitate communication between funeral homes, families, and vendors.

Customize your experience and personalize content.

Process subscriptions, payments, and customer support requests.

Maintain security, prevent misuse, and enforce our Terms of Service.

Send service-related updates, notifications, or feature announcements.

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal data to third parties.

3. Legal Basis for Processing (for UK/EU Users)

We process personal data under the following legal bases:

Contractual necessity: To deliver the service you signed up for.

Legitimate interest: To improve our service and maintain security.

Consent: When you agree to optional features, marketing, or communication.

Legal obligation: When required by law or regulation.

4. Data Storage and Security

We use secure servers and encryption to protect your data.

All communications between users are encrypted in transit (HTTPS/SSL).

Access to sensitive information is restricted to authorized staff only.

Data is stored in reputable cloud servers that comply with GDPR and international standards.

Despite these safeguards, no system is entirely secure. We encourage users to protect their passwords and access credentials.

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We may share information only in the following cases:

With your consent: For collaboration between funeral homes, vendors, and families on shared cases.

With service providers: Such as hosting, analytics, and payment processors under confidentiality agreements.

To comply with the law: When required by legal authorities, court orders, or regulatory obligations.

In the event of a business transfer: Such as a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, where data protection terms remain consistent.

6. Data Retention

We retain user data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described above or as required by law.

You can request deletion of your data at any time by contacting our support team.

When accounts are terminated, associated case data is securely deleted or anonymized.

7. Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have the right to:

Access the personal data we hold about you.

Request correction or deletion of your data.

Restrict or object to certain processing activities.

Withdraw consent where previously given.

Request data portability (a copy of your data in a structured format).

To exercise these rights, contact us at [Insert Support Email].

8. International Data Transfers

Because NextSteps Companion operates globally, your data may be transferred to and processed in other countries.
We ensure that any such transfers comply with data protection laws and that equivalent safeguards are in place (e.g., GDPR-compliant clauses).

9. Children’s Privacy

NextSteps Companion is not intended for individuals under 18 years of age.
We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors.
If we learn that we have collected such information without consent, we will delete it immediately.

10. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience and analyze usage.
You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings, though this may limit certain app functions.

11. Third-Party Links

The Service may contain links to external sites not operated by us.
We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those websites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies separately.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements.
Updated versions will be posted on our website or app with a new “Last Updated” date.
Continued use of the Service after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised Policy.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions, requests, or concerns regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact:

[Insert Support Email]
[Insert Website URL]
[Insert Company Legal Name and Address]

Summary for Users

NextSteps Companion respects your privacy and protects your data with transparency, security, and compassion.
We collect only what’s necessary to deliver meaningful service and never sell your information.