1. Who We Are

AskSpud.ie is an Irish business directory that helps people discover independent businesses, services, shops, cafés, venues and professionals across Ireland.

This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and your rights under data protection legislation including the GDPR.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following categories of data:

• Name and contact details
• Email address
• Business listing information
• Location details
• Account login details (if registered)
• Payment-related information (processed securely via third-party providers)
• IP address and browser/device data
• Usage analytics

3. How We Use Your Information

Your information is used to:

• Publish and manage directory listings
• Process listing upgrades and subscriptions
• Provide support and respond to enquiries
• Maintain platform quality and security
• Improve website functionality
• Communicate service updates

We never sell personal data.

4. Public Business Listing Data

If you submit a business listing, some of the information you provide may appear publicly on AskSpud.ie, including:

• Business name
• Description
• Images
• County / location
• Website link (Verified listings)
• Email / phone (Verified listings)

You are responsible for ensuring submitted listing information is accurate and lawful.

5. Payments

Payments for upgraded directory listings may be processed securely through WooCommerce and third-party payment providers such as Stripe.

AskSpud.ie does not store full payment card details.

6. Cookies

We use cookies to improve functionality, remember preferences and analyse website usage. Some cookies are essential for site operation.

You may disable cookies through your browser settings.

7. Analytics

We may use analytics tools to understand how visitors interact with AskSpud.ie so we can improve usability and directory performance.

Analytics data is anonymised where possible.

8. Email Communication

If you submit a listing or contact us, we may email you regarding:

• Listing approval status
• Directory updates
• Important service notifications

We do not send unnecessary promotional email.

9. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR)

We process personal data under the following lawful bases:

• Consent
• Contract (directory listing services)
• Legitimate interest (platform operation and improvement)
• Legal obligations

10. Data Retention

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to operate AskSpud.ie and provide directory services.

You may request deletion of your data at any time.

11. Third-Party Links

AskSpud.ie contains links to external websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices.

12. Affiliate Links

Some links on AskSpud.ie may be affiliate links. This does not affect pricing for users.

13. Your Rights

Under GDPR, you may request:

• Access to your personal data
• Correction of inaccurate data
• Deletion of your data
• Restriction of processing
• Transfer of your data
• Withdrawal of consent

14. Security

We take reasonable technical and organisational measures to protect your information. However, no internet transmission method is completely secure.

15. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Continued use of AskSpud.ie indicates acceptance of any updates.