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Raise a Complaint Toll Free 1800 233 0332 complaints@cercindia.org

PRIVACY POLICY

This Privacy Policy (“Policy”) is issued by Consumer Education and Research Centre (CERC) (hereinafter referred to as “the Organization”, “we”, “our”, or “us”), operating the website Consumer Education and Research Centre accessible at https://cercindia.org/.

This Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, store, and protect personal data of users (“you”, “your”) in compliance with applicable laws including:

  • The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
  • The Information Technology Act, 2000 and applicable Rules

 

1. SCOPE AND APPLICABILITY

This Policy applies to all visitors, users, complainants, donors, and any persons who access or use our website or services.

2. INFORMATION WE COLLECT

We collect personal data when you interact with our website, submit complaints, create accounts, communicate with us, or avail our services :

(a) Personal Identification Data

  • Name
  • Email address
  • Contact number
  • Address

 

(b) Sensitive / Case-related Information

  • Consumer complaints
  • Supporting documents submitted for grievances
  • Correspondence records

 

(c) Technical Data

  • IP address
  • Browser type
  • Device information
  • Pages visited

 

3. PURPOSE OF DATA COLLECTION

We collect and process personal data for:

  • Handling consumer complaints and grievances
  • Providing legal awareness and assistance
  • Responding to queries and communications
  • Preventing fraud, misuse, and unlawful activities
  • Processing payments where applicable
  • Sending communications including updates and awareness initiatives
  • Conducting research, surveys, and advocacy work
  • Improving website functionality and user experience
  • Complying with legal obligations

 

4. LEGAL BASIS FOR PROCESSING

We process personal data on the following lawful grounds:

  • Consent of the user
  • Compliance with legal obligations
  • Legitimate activities related to consumer protection and public interest

 

5. DATA SHARING AND DISCLOSURE

We do not sell personal data. However, data may be shared with:

  • Government authorities or regulatory bodies when required by law
  • Courts, tribunals, or quasi-judicial authorities
  • Legal advisors and consultants
  • Service providers (IT, hosting, analytics) under confidentiality obligations

 

6. DATA RETENTION

We retain personal data:

  • For as long as necessary to fulfill the purpose for which it was collected
  • For legal, regulatory, or archival purposes
  • Until withdrawal of consent, where applicable

Thereafter, data shall be securely deleted or anonymized.

7. DATA SECURITY

We implement encryption, access controls, internal policies, and regular training programs to ensure data protection:

  • Secure servers and encryption measures
  • Restricted access to authorized personnel
  • Periodic security review

However, no method of transmission over the internet is completely secure.

8. USER RIGHTS (UNDER DPDP ACT, 2023)

Users may manage consent by updating preferences, using unsubscribe options, or contacting the Grievance Officer:

  • Access your personal data
  • Request correction or updating of data
  • Request erasure of personal data
  • Withdraw consent at any time
  • Grievance redressal

Requests may be made through the contact details provided below.

9. CHILDREN’S PRIVACY

We do not knowingly collect personal data from children.
If any such data is identified, it shall be deleted promptly.

10. COOKIES AND TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES

Our website may use cookies to:

  • Enhance user experience
  • Analyze website traffic
  • Improve services

Users may control cookies through browser settings.

11. THIRD-PARTY LINKS

Our website may contain links to third-party websites.
We are not responsible for their privacy practices.

12. GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM

In accordance with applicable laws, the Grievance Officer details are as follows:

Name: Meghavi Joshi
Designation: Grievance Officer
Email: cerc@cercindia.org
Address: Sakar -2, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad
All grievances shall be acknowledged and addressed within a reasonable time frame as per applicable law.

13. CHANGES TO THIS POLICY

We reserve the right to update this Policy from time to time.
Users are advised to review this page periodically.

14. CONTACT INFORMATION

For any queries regarding this Policy, you may contact:
Consumer Education and Research Centre (CERC)
Email: cerc@cercindia.org
Website: https://cercindia.org/

15. CONSENT

By using our website, you consent to the collection and use of information in accordance with this Policy.

Place: Ahmedabad
Date: 26-03-2026

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