Privacy Policy for Smael South Africa

At Smael South Africa, we are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled in a safe and responsible manner. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information in compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

By using our website (https://www.smael.co.za) and services, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

1. Who We Are

Smael South Africa is an e-commerce store specializing in smartwatches, sunglasses, and related accessories. We are committed to safeguarding your personal information and ensuring that your privacy rights are respected.

2. What Personal Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal information:

• Identity Information: Full name.
• Contact Information: Email address, phone number, billing and shipping address.
• Account Information: Login details, purchase history, and preferences.
• Technical Information: IP address, browser type, device information, and usage data.
• Marketing Preferences: Your preferences for receiving marketing communications.

Note: We do not collect or store any payment information (e.g., credit or debit card details). All payments are securely processed by trusted third-party payment providers, including PayFast, HappyPay, and PayFlex.

3. How We Collect Your Information

We collect personal information directly from you when:

• You create an account on our website.
• You place an order or purchase a product.
• You subscribe to our newsletter or marketing communications.
• You contact us via email, phone, or social media.
• You browse our website (via cookies and similar technologies).

4. How We Use Your Personal Information

We use your personal information for the following purposes:

• To process and fulfill your orders.
• To deliver products to your address.
• To communicate with you about your orders, inquiries, or requests.
• To send you promotional offers, newsletters, or updates (if you have opted in).
• To improve our website, products, and services.
• To comply with legal obligations and protect against fraud.

5. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our website uses cookies and tracking technologies to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalized services.

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit our website. They help us recognize your device, remember your preferences, and improve your overall experience.

Types of Cookies We Use

• Essential Cookies: Necessary for the operation of our website.
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how users interact with our website.
• Marketing Cookies: Used to deliver personalized advertising.

By continuing to use our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can manage cookies through your browser settings.

6. Sharing Your Personal Information

We may share your personal information with third parties under the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: To process payments, deliver products, and manage marketing campaigns.
• Legal Obligations: If required by law or to comply with legal processes.
• Business Transfers: If we sell or merge our business, your personal information may be transferred to the new owners.

We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties.

7. How We Protect Your Information

We take reasonable measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. These measures include:

• Secure payment gateways (e.g., PayFast, HappyPay, PayFlex).
• Encrypted connections (SSL) for data transmission.
• Restricted access to personal information within our organization.

8. Your Rights Under POPIA

As a South African resident, you have the following rights under POPIA:

• Access: You can request access to the personal information we hold about you.
• Correction: You can request corrections to your personal information if it is inaccurate or outdated.
• Deletion: You can request that we delete your personal information, subject to legal requirements.
• Objection: You can object to the processing of your personal information for certain purposes, such as direct marketing.
• Data Portability: You have the right to receive your personal information in a structured, commonly used format.

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us at support@smael.co.za.

9. Retention of Your Information

We will retain your personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law.

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these websites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies before providing any personal information.

11. Children’s Privacy

Our website is not intended for children under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Any updates will be posted on this page, and the "Last Updated" date will be revised.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your personal information, please contact us at:

Smael South Africa
Email: support@smael.co.za
Website: https://www.smael.co.za

Last Updated: 23-12-2025