PRIVACY POLICY

1. INTRODUCTION AND COMMITMENT TO PRIVACY

B R Softech Private Limited ("Company," "we," "us," or "our"), operating the Skillwaala educational platform ("Platform"), is committed to protecting the privacy and security of personal information belonging to our students, users, and visitors (collectively, "Users," "you," or "your").

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, store, and protect your personal information when you access or use our website, mobile applications, learning management systems, and related services. This policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms and Conditions.

By accessing or using the Skillwaala Platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with this policy, you must discontinue use of the Platform immediately.

2. SCOPE OF THIS POLICY

This Privacy Policy applies to all personal information collected through:

• The Skillwaala website (www.skillwaala.com)
• Skillwaala mobile applications
• Learning management systems and student portals
• Communications with Users via email, WhatsApp, SMS, or phone
• Offline interactions during in-person training sessions or internships
• Social media platforms operated by Skillwaala or B R Softech
• Any other services offered under the Skillwaala brand

3. DATA CONTROLLER

B R Softech Private Limited, located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, serves as the data controller for all personal information collected through the Skillwaala Platform. The Company determines the purposes and means of processing personal data and bears responsibility for compliance with applicable data protection laws.

4. INFORMATION WE COLLECT

4.1 Information Provided Directly by Users

When you register, enroll in courses, or interact with the Platform, we collect information you provide voluntarily, including:

Registration and Profile Information:

• Full name
• Email address
• Phone number (mobile)
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Residential address (city, state, country)
• Educational background and qualifications
• Current employment status and professional experience
• Profile photographs (optional)

Course-Related Information:

• Course preferences and interests
• Enrolled courses and programs
• Learning progress and completion status
• Assignment submissions and project work
• Assessment scores and performance metrics
• Attendance records for live sessions
• Participation in discussions and forums
• Feedback and survey responses

Career Development Information:

• Resume and curriculum vitae
• Career goals and aspirations
• Job preferences and requirements
• Interview preparation materials
• Internship applications and performance

Communication Content:

• Messages sent through Platform communication tools
• Correspondence via email, WhatsApp, or other channels
• Support requests and help desk interactions
• Feedback, testimonials, and reviews

4.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you access the Platform, we automatically collect certain technical information:

Device Information:

• Device type, model, and manufacturer
• Operating system and version
• Browser type and version
• Screen resolution and device capabilities
• Unique device identifiers

Usage Information:

• Pages visited and time spent on each page
• Features and content accessed
• Click-stream data and navigation patterns
• Search queries and terms used
• Session duration and frequency of visits
• Referring and exit pages
• Video viewing behavior (watch time, pause points, completion rates)

Location Information:

• IP address
• Approximate geographic location based on IP address
• Time zone settings

Cookies and Similar Technologies:

• Session cookies for Platform functionality
• Persistent cookies for user preferences
• Analytics cookies for usage patterns
• Authentication tokens for security

4.3 Information from Third-Party Sources

We may receive information about you from:

• Social media platforms if you connect accounts or share content
• Educational institutions with which we have partnership agreements
• Employers providing feedback on internship performance
• Payment processors (if applicable for future services)
• Public databases and verification services for authentication purposes

4.4 Special Categories of Data

We generally do not collect sensitive personal information (such as health data, religious beliefs, or biometric information). If we need to collect such information for specific purposes, we will obtain explicit consent and provide additional safeguards.

5. HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION

We process personal information for the following legitimate purposes:

5.1 Educational Service Delivery

• Processing course enrollments and managing student accounts
• Providing access to learning materials, live sessions, and recorded content
• Facilitating interactions between students, instructors, and mentors
• Tracking learning progress and issuing certificates upon completion
• Personalizing educational content based on performance and preferences
• Organizing and managing offline training sessions and internships

5.2 Communication and Engagement

• Sending course-related updates, schedules, and important announcements
• Providing class reminders and enrollment confirmations
• Distributing educational content, resources, and learning tips
• Conducting surveys and collecting feedback for service improvement
• Responding to inquiries, support requests, and technical issues
• Sharing career opportunities, job alerts, and placement assistance
• Notifying users of platform updates, new courses, and features

5.3 Platform Operation and Improvement

• Maintaining, operating, and securing the Platform
• Troubleshooting technical issues and resolving bugs
• Analyzing usage patterns to improve user experience
• Developing new features, courses, and services
• Conducting research to enhance educational methodologies
• Performing data analytics for operational efficiency

5.4 Career Development Support

• Facilitating internship placements at B R Softech and partner organizations
• Providing job placement assistance and career counseling
• Conducting mock interviews and resume reviews
• Connecting students with potential employers and opportunities
• Tracking post-completion career outcomes (with consent)

5.5 Legal Compliance and Safety

• Complying with applicable laws, regulations, and legal obligations
• Protecting against fraud, unauthorized access, and security threats
• Enforcing our Terms and Conditions and Platform policies
• Responding to legal requests from authorities
• Protecting the rights, property, and safety of the Company, Users, and others

5.6 Marketing and Promotional Activities

• Informing users about new courses, programs, and educational opportunities
• Sharing success stories, testimonials, and case studies (with permission)
• Conducting promotional campaigns and outreach initiatives
• Building awareness of Skillwaala's mission and free education initiative

Users may opt out of promotional communications while continuing to receive service-critical messages.

6. LEGAL BASES FOR PROCESSING (APPLICABLE REGULATIONS)

We process personal information based on the following legal grounds:

• Contractual Necessity: Processing necessary to deliver educational services you have enrolled in
• Legitimate Interests: Processing necessary for our legitimate business operations, service improvement, and security
• Consent: Processing based on explicit consent you provide for specific purposes
• Legal Obligations: Processing required to comply with applicable laws and regulations

Users have the right to withdraw consent at any time, though this may affect access to certain services.

7. WHATSAPP, SMS, AND COMMUNICATION PRACTICES

7.1 Communication Channels

As part of delivering comprehensive educational services, Skillwaala utilizes multiple communication channels:

• WhatsApp messages and voice calls
• SMS text messaging
• Email correspondence
• Voice phone calls
• Push notifications through mobile applications
• In-platform messaging systems

7.2 Purpose of Communications

Communications sent through these channels serve essential service-related purposes:

• Class schedules, reminders, and last-minute changes
• Course enrollment confirmations and important updates
• Educational content, tips, and learning resources
• Assignment deadlines and submission reminders
• Career opportunities and job notifications
• Internship placement information
• Platform announcements and feature updates
• Support and assistance messages
• Feedback requests and surveys

7.3 Consent for Communications

By registering on Skillwaala, users explicitly consent to receive communications via the channels listed above. These communications are integral to the educational experience and are not unsolicited spam.

7.4 Managing Communication Preferences

While service-critical communications cannot be opted out of (such as enrolled course updates or emergency notifications), users may manage preferences for promotional content through:

• Account settings on the Platform
• Unsubscribe links in emails
• Contacting support directly
• Updating preferences through provided opt-out mechanisms

7.5 WhatsApp Channel

Skillwaala operates an official WhatsApp channel for instant course updates, career advice, and community engagement. Users who join this channel consent to receiving broadcasts relevant to their educational journey.

8. INFORMATION SHARING AND DISCLOSURE

8.1 Internal Sharing

Personal information may be shared within B R Softech Private Limited, including:

• Educational staff, instructors, and mentors delivering courses
• Technical support teams managing Platform operations
• Career counselors and placement coordinators
• Administrative staff processing enrollments and certificates
• Management overseeing quality and compliance

All internal personnel are bound by confidentiality obligations and data protection policies.

8.2 Third-Party Service Providers

We engage trusted third-party service providers who process personal information on our behalf for:

• Cloud hosting and data storage infrastructure
• Communication services (email delivery, SMS gateways, WhatsApp Business API)
• Analytics and performance monitoring tools
• Learning management system platforms
• Video conferencing and webinar services
• Customer relationship management systems
• Security and fraud prevention services

All third-party processors are carefully vetted, contractually bound to protect user data, and prohibited from using information for purposes other than providing services to us.

8.3 Educational and Corporate Partners

With appropriate consent, we may share information with:

• Educational institutions with which we have formal partnerships or MOUs (such as Biyani Group of Colleges)
• Employers and organizations offering internship or employment opportunities
• Industry partners contributing to curriculum development
• Certification bodies for credential verification

8.4 Legal Requirements and Protection of Rights

We may disclose personal information when required by law or when we believe in good faith that disclosure is necessary to:

• Comply with legal obligations, court orders, or government requests
• Enforce our Terms and Conditions and other agreements
• Protect against fraud, security threats, or illegal activities
• Defend against legal claims or protect legal rights
• Protect the safety and security of Users, the Company, or the public

8.5 Business Transfers

In the event of a merger, acquisition, reorganization, sale of assets, or similar corporate transaction, personal information may be transferred to the successor entity, subject to the same privacy protections outlined in this policy.

8.6 No Sale or Rental of Personal Information

Skillwaala does not and will never sell, rent, or trade personal information to third parties for their marketing purposes. Your trust is paramount to our mission of accessible education.

8.7 Aggregate and De-Identified Information

We may share aggregate statistical information and de-identified data that cannot reasonably be used to identify individuals with third parties for research, analysis, marketing, or other purposes.

9. DATA SECURITY MEASURES

9.1 Security Commitment

Protecting user data is a top priority. We implement comprehensive technical, administrative, and physical security measures designed to safeguard personal information against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.

9.2 Technical Safeguards

• Encryption of data in transit using SSL/TLS protocols
• Encryption of sensitive data at rest
• Secure authentication mechanisms and password policies
• Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
• Intrusion detection and prevention systems
• Firewall protection and network segmentation
• Secure backup and disaster recovery procedures
• Regular software updates and security patches

9.3 Administrative Safeguards

• Strict access controls limiting data access to authorized personnel only
• Employee training on data protection and privacy principles
• Confidentiality agreements binding all staff members
• Incident response procedures for security breaches
• Privacy impact assessments for new features or services
• Vendor security reviews and contractual safeguards

9.4 Physical Safeguards

• Secure data centers with restricted access controls
• Surveillance and monitoring systems
• Environmental controls protecting against disasters

9.5 User Responsibilities

While we implement robust security measures, users also play a crucial role in protecting their information:

• Maintain confidentiality of login credentials
• Use strong, unique passwords
• Do not share account access with others
• Log out after using shared or public devices
• Report suspicious activity immediately
• Keep contact information updated for security notifications

9.6 Limitations

Despite best efforts, no security system is completely impenetrable. Users acknowledge that transmission of information over the internet carries inherent risks, and the Company cannot guarantee absolute security of personal information.

10. DATA RETENTION

10.1 Retention Principles

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce agreements.

10.2 Retention Periods

Active User Accounts:

Personal information is retained while accounts remain active and for a reasonable period thereafter to allow account reactivation.

Course Records:

Educational records including enrollments, progress, and certificates are retained indefinitely to provide ongoing verification services and lifetime access to recorded sessions.

Communication Records:

Communication logs are retained for operational purposes and legal compliance, typically for 2-3 years after the last interaction.

Technical Data:

Usage logs and technical information are generally retained for shorter periods (6-12 months) unless required for security investigations or legal compliance.

10.3 Deletion and Anonymization

When retention periods expire or users request deletion, we:

• Securely delete or anonymize personal information
• Remove data from active systems and backups (subject to technical limitations)
• Retain only de-identified aggregate data for statistical purposes

10.4 Legal Holds

Data may be retained longer when required by law, ongoing legal proceedings, investigations, or disputes.

11. USER RIGHTS AND CHOICES

11.1 Access and Correction

Users have the right to:

• Access personal information we hold about them
• Request copies of their data in a portable format
• Correct inaccurate or incomplete information
• Update profile and account details

11.2 Deletion and Erasure

Users may request deletion of their personal information, subject to:

• Legal obligations requiring retention
• Legitimate business needs (such as certificate verification)
• Pending disputes or legal claims

11.3 Objection and Restriction

Users may:

• Object to certain processing activities
• Request restriction of processing in specific circumstances
• Opt out of promotional communications

11.4 Withdrawal of Consent

Where processing is based on consent, users may withdraw consent at any time, though this may affect ability to access certain services.

11.5 Data Portability

Users may request their personal information in a structured, commonly used, machine-readable format for transfer to another service provider.

11.6 Exercising Rights

To exercise these rights, users should contact us using the details provided in Section 17. We will respond to requests within reasonable timeframes as required by applicable laws.

11.7 Verification

For security purposes, we may require verification of identity before processing requests related to personal information.

12. CHILDREN'S PRIVACY

12.1 Age Restrictions

Skillwaala is intended for users aged 13 and above. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental or guardian consent.

12.2 Parental Consent

Users between ages 13 and 18 must obtain parental or legal guardian consent before using the Platform. By registering, these users represent that they have obtained such consent.

12.3 Parental Rights

Parents or guardians may:

• Review personal information collected from their child
• Request deletion of such information
• Refuse further collection or use of information

12.4 Discovery of Underage Users

If we discover we have inadvertently collected information from a child under 13 without proper consent, we will promptly delete such information from our systems.

13. INTERNATIONAL DATA TRANSFERS

13.1 Primary Operations

Skillwaala primarily operates within India, and user data is generally stored on servers located in India.

13.2 Cross-Border Transfers

Some third-party service providers may process data on servers located outside India. When transferring data internationally, we ensure:

• Adequate data protection safeguards are in place
• Compliance with applicable data transfer regulations
• Contractual protections requiring service providers to maintain security standards

13.3 User Consent

By using the Platform, users consent to potential international transfer of their personal information as described in this policy.

14. COOKIES AND TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES

14.1 What Are Cookies

Cookies are small text files stored on user devices that help us provide, protect, and improve our services.

14.2 Types of Cookies We Use

Strictly Necessary Cookies:

Essential for Platform functionality, including authentication, security, and basic operations. Cannot be disabled.

Functional Cookies:

Remember user preferences, settings, and choices to enhance user experience.

Analytics Cookies:

Collect information about Platform usage patterns to help us understand how users interact with our services and identify areas for improvement.

Performance Cookies:

Monitor Platform performance and identify technical issues.

14.3 Third-Party Cookies

Some cookies are placed by third-party service providers (such as analytics providers or video platforms). These are governed by the respective third parties' privacy policies.

14.4 Managing Cookies

Users can manage cookie preferences through browser settings. However, disabling certain cookies may affect Platform functionality.

14.5 Do Not Track Signals

Our Platform does not currently respond to browser "Do Not Track" signals, as industry standards for such signals are still evolving.

15. THIRD-PARTY LINKS AND INTEGRATIONS

15.1 External Websites

The Platform may contain links to third-party websites, applications, or services not operated by the Company. We are not responsible for privacy practices of these external sites.

15.2 Social Media Integration

The Platform may integrate with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube). Interactions with these platforms are governed by their respective privacy policies.

15.3 User Responsibility

Users should review privacy policies of third-party services before providing personal information or engaging with external platforms.

16. UPDATES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

16.1 Right to Modify

The Company reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in:

• Our information practices
• Legal or regulatory requirements
• Platform features or services
• User feedback and industry best practices

16.2 Notification of Changes

Material changes will be communicated through:

• Prominent notice on the Platform
• Email notification to registered users
• Updated "Last Modified" date at the top of this policy

16.3 Continued Use

Continued use of the Platform following modifications constitutes acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy. Users who do not agree with changes should discontinue Platform use and may request account deletion.

17. CONTACT INFORMATION AND COMPLAINTS

17.1 Privacy Questions and Requests

For questions, concerns, requests, or complaints regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact:

Skillwaala - B R Softech Private Limited

Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Website: www.skillwaala.com

Email: www.skillwaala.com

Phone: +917766967799

17.2 Response Timeline

We aim to respond to all privacy-related inquiries within 30 days of receipt. Complex requests may require additional time, and we will keep you informed of progress.

17.3 Escalation

If you believe we have not adequately addressed your concerns, you have the right to lodge a complaint with relevant data protection authorities in your jurisdiction.

18. ACCEPTANCE OF THIS PRIVACY POLICY

By accessing or using the Skillwaala Platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Privacy Policy and our Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree, please discontinue use of the Platform immediately.