Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

This Privacy Policy and Data Processing & Consent Statement outlines how Essayence, owned and operated by Elegant Ventures Kenya Limited, collects, uses, processes, and protects personal data. It applies to all users who access our website, platform, or services. By using Essayence, you consent to the collection and processing of your personal data as described in this policy.

Essayence adheres to the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019) and upholds international privacy standards including, but not limited to, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union, the UK Data Protection Act, the Canada Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), and relevant U.S. federal and state data privacy laws.

2. Information We Collect

We collect and process the following types of personal data:

• Personal Information – Name, email, phone number, country, and institutional affiliation.
• Service Data – Uploaded documents, instructions, or communications provided for editing, consulting, or academic support.
• Payment Data – Transaction details required to process payments, excluding full credit or debit card information.
• Technical Data – IP address, browser type, device information, and access logs for analytics and security.
• Correspondence Data – Messages exchanged between users and Essayence for service-related communication.

3. Purpose and Legal Basis for Processing

We process personal data for the following purposes:

• To deliver requested services, including editing, consultation, and research support.
• To manage transactions and maintain user accounts.
• To improve service quality, website performance, and client support.
• To comply with legal obligations and prevent fraud or misuse.
• To respond to user inquiries and support requests.

The legal basis for processing includes user consent, contractual necessity, legitimate business interests, and compliance with applicable laws.

4. Consent to Data Processing

By submitting your personal data or documents to Essayence, you expressly consent to the collection, processing, and storage of such data as described in this policy. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by contacting the Privacy Office. Withdrawal of consent does not affect data processing conducted before the withdrawal.

Users located in jurisdictions that require explicit consent (such as the EEA or UK) must confirm acceptance through digital acknowledgment before using Essayence services.

5. Confidentiality and Data Integrity

Essayence maintains strict confidentiality regarding all client data and documents. Access is limited to authorized personnel directly involved in service delivery. We use encryption, secure data transfers, and storage protocols to prevent unauthorized access or loss.

All materials are used solely for the purpose of fulfilling the requested service. No document or data is shared externally without written authorization or legal compulsion.

6. International Data Transfers

Essayence may transfer personal data between Kenya and other jurisdictions where its affiliates, partners, or clients operate. Such transfers are governed by legally binding agreements ensuring equivalent levels of protection under international privacy standards.

Users acknowledge that their data may be processed in jurisdictions outside their country of residence, where data protection laws may differ but remain compliant with recognized global privacy frameworks.

7. Data Retention

Personal data is retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purpose of collection or as required by law. Service-related documents are typically deleted within twelve (12) months after completion unless legal, regulatory, or business obligations necessitate longer retention.

8. Data Security Measures

We employ physical, digital, and administrative safeguards to secure all personal and service-related data. These include encryption, access control, intrusion detection, and regular security audits. While absolute security cannot be guaranteed, Essayence continuously updates its systems to mitigate risks.

9. User Rights

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

• Access and obtain a copy of your personal data.
• Request correction or deletion of your personal information.
• Object to or restrict processing of your data.
• Withdraw consent or request data portability.
• Lodge a complaint with a data protection authority in your country.

Requests must be made in writing to our Privacy Office. Verification of identity may be required.

10. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Essayence uses cookies and analytics tools to enhance functionality and personalize user experience. Cookies help identify returning visitors and store preferences. Users may disable cookies in their browsers, though this may limit certain features.

11. Children’s Privacy

We do not knowingly collect or process data from children under thirteen (13) years of age. If such information is discovered, it will be promptly deleted. Users under sixteen (16) in the UK or EEA, or under eighteen (18) in Israel, must have parental or guardian consent before submitting any personal data.

12. Third-Party Services

Our platform may include references or integrations with third-party tools. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external entities. Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of such services before engagement.

13. Policy Amendments

Essayence may update this Policy periodically to comply with evolving regulations or operational changes. Any substantial updates will be communicated via official channels, including our website or email notices. The updated effective date will be clearly stated above.

14. Contact Information

For privacy or data-related inquiries, requests, or complaints, contact us at admin@essayence.net.