Privacy Policy

POPIA Compliance Statement

DCSA (Debt Counselling South Africa) is committed to protecting your privacy and complying with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) No. 4 of 2013. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information.

Information We Collect

We collect the following types of information:

• Personal details: Name, surname, ID number, contact information
• Financial information: Income, expenses, debts, credit agreements
• Employment information: Employer details, salary information
• Bank account details for debt repayment purposes
• Website usage data through cookies and analytics

How We Use Your Information

Your information is used solely for:

• Providing debt counselling and credit repair services
• Assessing your financial situation and eligibility for debt review
• Communicating with you about your debt counselling process
• Negotiating with creditors on your behalf
• Fulfilling legal and regulatory requirements (NCR compliance)
• Improving our website and services

Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your personal information:

• SSL encryption for all data transmission
• Secure, password-protected database storage
• Limited access to personal information (staff on need-to-know basis)
• Regular security audits and updates
• Physical security measures at our offices

Information Sharing

We may share your information with:

• Credit bureaus as required by the National Credit Act
• Your creditors for negotiation and restructuring purposes
• Payment distribution agencies for debt repayment
• The National Credit Regulator (NCR) when legally required
• Legal and professional advisors when necessary

We will never sell or rent your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes.

Your Rights Under POPIA

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information we hold
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Object to the processing of your information
• Request deletion of your information (subject to legal requirements)
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator

Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as required by the National Credit Act and other applicable laws. Typically, this means:

• Active debt counselling files: Duration of process plus 5 years
• Completed cases: 5 years after clearance certificate issued
• Financial records: 7 years as per tax regulations

Cookies and Website Analytics

Our website uses cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though this may affect website functionality.

Contact Us

For privacy-related queries or to exercise your POPIA rights, contact:

Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.