1. Scope of this Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy applies to all users of the Hiked Platform, including:

1.1 Mentees: Individuals seeking career guidance and mentorship.

1.2 Mentors: Professionals offering expertise and mentorship services.

It governs all interactions and data shared via our website, mobile application, and associated services.

2. Data We Collect

We collect various types of information to ensure the effective functioning of the Platform.

2.1 For Mentees:

• 2.1.1 Personal Details: Name, email address (connect via social media), phone number.

• 2.1.2 Career Preferences: Industry, goals, challenges, and other career-related preferences.

• 2.1.3 Payment Information: Information necessary for processing session payments, such as card details and billing addresses (processed securely by third-party payment processors).

2.2 For Mentees:

• 2.2.1 Personal Details: Name, email address, phone number, Social Media Handles.

• 2.2.2 Professional Details: Experience, expertise, certifications, and other professional qualifications.

• 2.2.3 Payment Details: Bank account or other payment details for processing payouts.

2.3 Platform Usage Data:

• 2.3.1 Interaction Logs: Session history, chat logs (for quality control and dispute resolution).

• 2.3.2 Analytics Data: Engagement metrics such as session frequency and feedback scores.

2.4 Automatically Collected Data:

• 2.4.1 Device Information: IP address, browser type, operating system, and device identifiers.

• 2.4.2 Usage Information: Pages visited, time spent on the Platform, and navigation paths.

2.5 Sensitive Information:

• 2.5.1 Compliance Documentation: Any documents required for identity verification (e.g., government-issued IDs) for fraud prevention and compliance purposes.

3. How We Use Your Data

Your data is used to:

• 3.1 Facilitate Matches: Connect mentees with the most suitable mentors based on preferences and expertise.

• 3.2 Process Transactions: Ensure secure payments and payouts via trusted third-party payment processors.

• 3.3 Enhance User Experience: Provide personalized recommendations and improve Platform functionality.

• 3.4 Ensure Compliance: Monitor adherence to Platform policies, resolve disputes, and prevent fraud.

• 3.5 Analyze and Improve: Use aggregated data to analyze trends, improve services, and troubleshoot issues.

• 3.6 Legal Obligations: Fulfill our obligations under applicable laws and regulations.

4. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information. However, we may share it with:

4.1 Mentors and Mentees:

• 4.1.1 Limited information necessary for connecting mentors and mentees (e.g., names and career preferences).

4.2 Service Providers:

• 4.2.1 Payment processors, analytics providers, and customer support services to facilitate Platform operations.

4.3 Legal and Regulatory Authorities:

• 4.3.1 When required by law or to comply with legal obligations, including responding to subpoenas, court orders, or regulatory inquiries.

4.4 Business Transfers:

• 4.4.1 In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your data may be transferred as part of the transaction. In such cases, we will ensure that the acquiring entity is bound by terms no less protective than those outlined in this policy.

4.5 Protection of Rights:

• 4.5.1 To protect the rights, property, and safety of Hiked, its users, or others, we may disclose information to relevant authorities or third parties.

5. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce our agreements. Data that is no longer required is securely deleted or anonymized.

Retention of Sensitive Data: Any sensitive data collected for verification purposes will be retained only as long as required for compliance or legal purposes and will be securely destroyed thereafter.

6. User Rights

You have the following rights regarding your personal data:

• 6.1 Access: Request a copy of the personal information we hold about you.

• 6.2 Correction: Update or correct inaccurate or incomplete information.

• 6.3 Deletion: Request the deletion of your account and associated data, subject to legal and contractual obligations.

• 6.4 Portability: Receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format.

• 6.5 Communication Preferences: Manage preferences for promotional emails or other communications.

To exercise these rights, please contact us at [email protected] . We will respond to all requests in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

7. Security Measures

We employ robust security measures to protect your data:

• 7.1 Encryption: Sensitive data, such as payment information, is encrypted during transmission and storage.

• 7.2 Secure Servers: Data is stored on secure servers with restricted access.

• 7.3 Regular Audits: Periodic security reviews and updates to maintain compliance with industry standards.

• 7.4 Access Control: Strict access controls to limit data access to authorized personnel only.

Despite our best efforts, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure. Users are encouraged to maintain the confidentiality of their login credentials.

8. Third-Party Links

The Platform may contain links to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external entities. Users are encouraged to review their privacy policies before engaging with them.

• 8.1 Recording of Training Sessions

• Mentors consent to the recording of their training sessions conducted via the Platform using third-party applications. Mentees will have the option to purchase access to these recorded sessions.

9. Mentors’ Responsibilities

Mentors on the Platform are bound by the following obligations:

• 9.1 Confidentiality: Maintain the privacy of mentee information shared during sessions.

• 9.2 Compliance: Adhere to the Platform’s code of conduct and applicable laws.

• 9.3 Data Protection: Securely handle any data shared by mentees and ensure it is used solely for mentorship purposes.

Failure to comply may result in account suspension, termination, or legal action.

10. International Users

If you are accessing the Platform from outside India, please be aware that your data may be transferred to and processed in the country of current usage, which may have different data protection laws than your jurisdiction. By using the Platform, you consent to such transfers and processing in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

11. Updates to this Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices, technology, or legal requirements. Users will be notified of significant updates via email or Platform notifications. Continued use of the Platform after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

12. Cookie Policy and Tracking Technologies

Hiked uses cookies, web beacons, and similar technologies to enhance user experience and analyze Platform performance.

12.1 Types of Cookies Used:

• 12.1.1 Essential Cookies: Required for the functioning of the Platform.

• 12.1.2 Analytical Cookies: Used to track user activity for improvement purposes.

• 12.1.3 Marketing Cookies: Help provide personalized advertisements and offers.

12.2 Consent for Cookies: Users can manage or withdraw consent for non-essential cookies via our Cookie Management Tool.

13. Governing Law

This Privacy Policy is governed by the laws of India. Any disputes arising under this policy shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Noida.

14. Dispute Resolution Clause

All disputes arising out of or in connection with this Privacy Policy will be resolved through:

• 14.1 Negotiation: Parties will attempt to resolve disputes amicably through discussion.

• 14.2 Arbitration: If unresolved, disputes will be referred to binding arbitration in Noida. The language of arbitration will be English.

• 14.3 Jurisdiction: Courts in Noida, Uttar Pradesh will have exclusive jurisdiction for legal disputes not resolved through arbitration.

15. Special Notes for Bizgurukul Users

Hiked operates as a sister company of Bizgurukul Private Limited. While both entities maintain separate data practices, shared users are encouraged to review Bizgurukul’s Privacy Policy for more information on data usage within that platform.

16. Indemnification Clause

Users agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Hiked, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses, including legal fees, arising out of their use of the Platform, violation of this Privacy Policy, or infringement of any rights of a third party.

17. Disclaimer of Liability

Hiked shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of the use of the Platform, including but not limited to data breaches, unauthorized access, or service interruptions. Users acknowledge that they use the Platform at their own risk.

18. Children’s Privacy

The Platform is not intended for use by individuals under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we become aware that we have inadvertently collected data from a minor, we will promptly delete it.

19. User Consent and Responsibilities

By using the Platform, users consent to the collection, processing, and sharing of their data as outlined in this Privacy Policy. Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials and ensuring that their use of the Platform complies with applicable laws.

20. Force Majeure

Hiked shall not be held liable for any failure to perform its obligations under this Privacy Policy due to events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, war, cyber-attacks, or government actions.

21. Severability

If any provision of this Privacy Policy is found to be unlawful, void, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

22. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

Hiked complies with all applicable data protection and privacy laws in India, including but not limited to:

• 22.1 The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act): Compliance with Sections 43A and 72A, ensuring reasonable security practices for sensitive personal data and information.

• 22.2 The Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011 (IT Rules): Adhering to the guidelines for collecting, processing, storing, and transferring sensitive personal data or information (SPDI).

• 22.3 The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP): Ensuring compliance with provisions related to the lawful processing of personal data, data minimization, consent-based processing, and user rights under the Act.

• 22.4 Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020: Ensuring transparent disclosure of data handling practices, grievance redressal mechanisms, and user rights.

• 22.5 Other applicable laws or regulations: Adhering to any additional legal requirements imposed by local or state authorities.

By complying with these laws, Hiked ensures that:

• Personal data is processed lawfully, fairly, and transparently.

• Users are informed about their rights and how their data is handled.

• Adequate safeguards are in place to protect personal and sensitive data.

Users are encouraged to exercise their rights under these laws by contacting us via email at [email protected] . Hiked remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of data privacy and security in accordance with Indian regulations.

23. Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or requests related to this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone: +91-9560223459

By using Hiked, you agree to this Privacy Policy and consent to the collection, use, and sharing of your information as described herein. Thank you for trusting us to support your mentorship journey.