Our Privacy Policy

How we protect you and your data.

Last updated: 18/01/2026

1. Introduction

Blockvel (“we”, “our”, “us”) provides an administrative support platform for community groups, including informal savings groups (stokvels).

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA).

By using Blockvel, you agree to the practices described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

We collect only information that is necessary to provide our services.

2.1 Information You Provide

This may include:

  • Names, phone numbers, and group roles (e.g. chair, member)

  • Messages, documents, images, or files voluntarily sent via WhatsApp

  • Proof of payment (PoP) documents and financial records

  • Information submitted through the Blockvel dashboard

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

Limited technical data such as:

  • Message timestamps and file metadata

  • System and audit logs required for reliability and security

3. How We Use Information

Personal information is used solely to:

  • Receive, organise, and store group records

  • Track contributions and administrative activity

  • Provide dashboards and summaries requested by users

  • Resolve disputes and administrative queries

  • Maintain system security and reliability

Blockvel does not use personal information for advertising or unrelated profiling.

4. WhatsApp and Platform Data

Blockvel receives messages and files that users voluntarily send to us via WhatsApp.

  • Platform Data is used only to deliver user-requested functionality

  • We do not monitor private WhatsApp conversations beyond content sent directly to Blockvel

  • Messages and files are processed for record-keeping and group administration only

5. Data Processing & Consent (Chairs and Members)

5.1 Role of the Group Chair

The group chair (or authorised administrator):

  • Acts as the primary representative of the group

  • Confirms that members have been informed that Blockvel is used to administer group records

  • Is responsible for ensuring that information shared with Blockvel is relevant and accurate

5.2 Consent by Members

By voluntarily sending information (including messages, documents, or proof of payment) to Blockvel:

  • Members consent to their information being processed for group administration

  • Members acknowledge that their information may be viewed by authorised group administrators

  • Members understand that Blockvel acts as a record-keeping and administrative support service, not a financial institution

Consent may be withdrawn, subject to legal and record-keeping requirements.

5.3 Lawful Processing (POPIA)

Blockvel processes personal information lawfully on the basis of:

  • Consent provided by users

  • Performance of a service requested by users

  • Legitimate interests related to record-keeping, auditability, and dispute resolution

6. Data Sharing

Blockvel does not sell personal information.

Information may be shared only:

  • With trusted service providers (e.g. hosting and storage) under confidentiality obligations

  • When required by law or regulatory authorities

  • With explicit consent from the data subject or authorised group representative

7. Data Security

We implement reasonable technical and organisational safeguards, including:

  • Secure data storage

  • Access controls for authorised personnel only

  • Ongoing monitoring to reduce risk of unauthorised access or loss

While no system is completely secure, we take data protection seriously.

8. Data Retention

Personal information is retained only as long as necessary to:

  • Provide the requested services

  • Maintain accurate group records

  • Comply with legal and regulatory obligations

Data may be deleted or anonymised when it is no longer required.

9. Data Subject Rights (POPIA)

In terms of POPIA, you have the right to:

  • Request access to your personal information

  • Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data

  • Request deletion or restriction of processing, where legally permissible

  • Object to certain types of processing

  • Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa

Requests can be made using the contact details below.

10. Children’s Information

Blockvel is intended for adult-managed community groups. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors without appropriate group or guardian context.

11. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. Any changes will be published with a revised “Last updated” date.

12. Contact Details

For questions or requests relating to this Privacy Policy or personal information:

Email: operations@blockvel.com
Website: https://blockvel-ui.vercel.app/