Privacy Policy
Your privacy is important to us. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.
Welcome to AutoBID. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our online car auction platform.
By using AutoBID, you consent to the data practices described in this policy. If you do not agree with our policies and practices, please do not use our services.
Information We Collect
Personal Information
When you create an account, we collect personal information such as your name, email address, phone number, and billing information. This information is necessary to provide our auction services and comply with legal requirements.
Vehicle Information
For sellers, we collect detailed information about vehicles being auctioned, including VIN numbers, specifications, condition reports, and photographs.
Usage Data
We automatically collect information about how you interact with our platform, including IP addresses, browser types, pages visited, and auction activity.
Communications
We maintain records of communications between users through our platform, including messages, bids, and customer support interactions.
How We Use Your Information
Service Provision
We use your information to provide auction services, process transactions, verify identities, and facilitate communication between buyers and sellers.
Security and Fraud Prevention
Your information helps us detect and prevent fraudulent activities, unauthorized access, and other security threats to protect all users.
Platform Improvement
We analyze usage data to improve our platform, develop new features, and enhance user experience.
Legal Compliance
We use information as required by law, including for tax reporting, regulatory compliance, and responding to legal requests.
Information Sharing
Between Users
Certain information is shared between auction participants, including seller information for successful bidders and necessary details for transaction completion.
Service Providers
We share information with trusted third-party providers who help us operate our platform, including payment processors, shipping companies, and inspection services.
Legal Requirements
We may disclose information when required by law, court order, or government request, or to protect our rights and safety.
Business Transfers
In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, user information may be transferred as part of that transaction.
Data Security
Encryption
All sensitive data is encrypted both in transit and at rest using industry-standard encryption protocols.
Access Controls
We implement strict access controls and authentication measures to ensure only authorized personnel can access user data.
Regular Audits
Our security practices are regularly audited by third-party security firms to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
Incident Response
We maintain a comprehensive incident response plan to quickly address any security breaches and notify affected users as required.
Your Rights
Access and Portability
You have the right to access your personal information and receive a copy in a portable format.
Correction and Updates
You can update or correct your personal information through your account settings or by contacting our support team.
Deletion
You may request deletion of your personal information, subject to legal and contractual obligations.
Marketing Opt-out
You can opt out of marketing communications at any time through your account settings or unsubscribe links.
Data Retention
Account Data
We retain account information for as long as your account remains active, plus 7 years after closure for legal and tax compliance purposes.
Transaction Records
Auction and transaction data is retained for 10 years to comply with financial regulations and provide ongoing support.
Communications
Messages and communications are retained for 3 years after the last interaction to resolve disputes and provide customer support.
Usage Data
Anonymous usage and analytics data may be retained indefinitely for platform improvement and research purposes.
Cookies and Tracking
Essential Cookies
We use essential cookies that are necessary for the operation of our platform. These cookies enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility.
Analytics Cookies
We use analytics cookies to understand how visitors interact with our website. This helps us improve our services and user experience. You can opt out of analytics tracking in your browser settings.
Marketing Cookies
With your consent, we may use marketing cookies to personalize advertisements and measure the effectiveness of our marketing campaigns. You can manage these preferences in your account settings.
International Users
AutoBID operates globally and may transfer your information to countries outside your residence. We ensure that such transfers comply with applicable data protection laws and implement appropriate safeguards.
GDPR Compliance
For users in the European Union, we comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). You have additional rights under GDPR, including the right to data portability, the right to be forgotten, and the right to lodge complaints with supervisory authorities.
CCPA Compliance
For California residents, we comply with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). You have the right to know what personal information we collect, to delete personal information, and to opt-out of the sale of personal information.
Contact Our Privacy Team
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, our data practices, or your rights regarding your personal information, please contact us:
Privacy Rights Requests
To exercise your privacy rights, including data access, correction, or deletion requests, please use our dedicated privacy portal or contact our privacy team directly.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for other operational, legal, or regulatory reasons. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the "Last Updated" date.
We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically to stay informed about how we protect your information. Your continued use of our services after any modifications indicates your acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.
Questions About Privacy?
Our privacy team is here to help. Contact us anytime with questions or concerns.