Privacy Policy

The RUG Index ("we", "us", "our") is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you use therugindex.com.

1. Information We Collect

• Account information: Name, email address, and password when you register.
• Listing information: Rug descriptions, photos, pricing, and ownership details you provide when listing a rug.
• Appraisal information: Contact details and rug descriptions submitted for appraisal requests.
• Payment information: Payment is processed by Stripe. We do not store credit card numbers. We receive confirmation of payment and associated email.
• Usage data: Pages visited, actions taken, and device information collected automatically.

2. How We Use Your Information

• To process listings, appraisal requests, and payments
• To match buyers and sellers on the marketplace
• To communicate with you about your account and transactions
• To improve the Platform and develop new features
• To comply with legal obligations

3. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your personal information. We share information only in the following circumstances:

• Service providers: Stripe (payments), Railway (hosting), Netlify (website hosting). These providers are bound by data processing agreements.
• Appraisers: When you book an appraisal, your contact information and rug description are shared with the assigned RICA-certified appraiser.
• Buyers and sellers: When an offer is accepted, basic contact information is shared to facilitate the transaction.
• Legal requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights.

4. Data Retention

We retain your account information as long as your account is active. Transaction records are retained for 7 years for tax and legal purposes. You may request deletion of your account at any time by contacting us.

5. Your Rights

You have the right to access, correct, or delete your personal information. You may also request a copy of the data we hold about you. To exercise these rights, contact us at info@therugindex.com.

6. Security

We use industry-standard security measures including encrypted connections (HTTPS), secure password hashing, and access controls. No method of transmission over the internet is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Cookies

We use cookies and browser storage for authentication (via our own login system — no third-party authentication provider is used) and basic analytics. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but some features may not work correctly.

8. Children's Privacy

The Platform is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by email or by posting a notice on the Platform.

10. Contact

Privacy questions? Contact us at info@therugindex.com.