Last updated: November 2026
1. Introduction
RusticLink (Pty) Ltd ("RusticLink", "we", "us" or "our") operates the RusticLink platform at app.rusticlink.co.za and the website at rusticlink.co.za. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose and safeguard your personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013 (POPIA).
By using the RusticLink platform or website, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this policy.
2. Information We Collect
We collect information you provide directly, and information collected automatically when you use the platform:
- Account information — your name, email address, phone number and password (stored as a secure hash).
- Homeowner information — job postings, project descriptions, location, photographs, measurements and timelines.
- Contractor information — business name, trade categories, service areas, licence or registration numbers, insurance details, years of experience and portfolio images.
- Communications — messages exchanged between homeowners and contractors, and support enquiries.
- Usage data — pages visited, device type, browser type, IP address and approximate location.
3. Banking & Payment Information
Contractor banking details are submitted to TradeSafe (a licensed escrow provider) for the purpose of paying you for completed work. These details are held by TradeSafe, not by RusticLink.
Subscription payments are processed by Paystack. Card details are collected and stored by Paystack and are never stored on RusticLink's servers. Please refer to the TradeSafe and Paystack privacy policies for more information.
4. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide, operate and maintain the RusticLink platform.
- Match homeowners with relevant contractors.
- Facilitate quotes, messaging and project management.
- Process subscription payments and escrow transactions.
- Send you notifications (in-app, email and push) about your account and activity.
- Verify identity and prevent fraud or abuse.
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
5. Legal Basis for Processing
We process personal information where: (a) you have given consent; (b) it is necessary to perform a contract with you; (c) it is necessary for our legitimate interests; or (d) we are required to do so by law.
6. Sharing of Information
We may share your information with:
- Other users — when you post a job, relevant details are shared with contractors; when you submit a quote, your details are shared with the homeowner.
- Payment providers — Paystack (subscriptions) and TradeSafe (escrow).
- Service providers — hosting, email delivery and analytics providers who assist us in operating the platform.
- Legal authorities — where required by law or to protect our rights and safety.
We do not sell your personal information to third parties.
7. Data Retention
We retain personal information only for as long as is necessary to fulfil the purposes described in this policy, or as required by law. When information is no longer required, it is securely deleted or anonymised.
8. Cookies & Analytics
We use cookies and similar technologies to keep you signed in, remember your preferences and understand how the platform is used. You can control cookies through your browser settings.
9. Data Security
We use appropriate technical and organisational measures — including encryption in transit (HTTPS), hashed passwords and restricted access — to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission or storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
10. Your Rights (POPIA)
You have the right to:
- Request access to the personal information we hold about you.
- Request correction or deletion of inaccurate information.
- Object to the processing of your information.
- Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent.
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator (South Africa).
To exercise any of these rights, contact us using the details below.
11. Third-Party Links
Our platform may contain links to third-party websites or services (such as Paystack and TradeSafe). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties, and encourage you to review their privacy policies.
12. Children's Privacy
The RusticLink platform is intended for users aged 18 and older. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.
13. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The "Last updated" date at the top of this page will be revised when changes are made. Continued use of the platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
14. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your information, contact us at:
RusticLink (Pty) Ltd
Email: hello@rusticlink.co.za
Website: rusticlink.co.za