Recognition.

Privacy Policy

Last Updated: 24 May 2024

Recognition Group (Pty) Ltd. (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal data when you use our website portal.recognitiongroup.co.za and related services (the “Services”). By using our Services, you consent to the practices described herein.

1. Data We Collect

Personal Information

We collect data necessary to provide our Services, including:

  • Account Details: Name, email, phone number, government ID (for royalty payments).
  • Payment Information: Bank details, PayPal/Venmo account (for royalty disbursements).
  • Music Metadata: Track titles, ISRCs, contributor splits, copyright ownership details.
  • Technical Data: IP address, device type, browser, usage analytics.

Social Media Logins

If you sign up via Facebook or Instagram, we collect:

  • Profile name, email, and public profile information.

2. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

  • Distribute music to DSPs (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.).
  • Administer publishing rights (SAMRO, CAPASSO).
  • Calculate and disburse royalties.
  • Communicate service updates or promotions (with consent).
  • Comply with legal obligations (e.g., tax reporting).

3. Legal Basis for Processing

  • Contractual Necessity: To fulfill distribution/publishing agreements.
  • Consent: For marketing communications (opt-out anytime).
  • Legal Compliance: Under South African POPIA and EU GDPR.

4. Data Sharing

We share data only with:

  • DSPs: To deliver your music (e.g., Spotify, Apple Music).
  • Payment Processors: For royalty payouts (e.g., PayPal, banks).
  • Collection Societies: SAMRO, CAPASSO, and international PROs.
  • Legal Authorities: When required by law (e.g., fraud investigations).

5. Data Security

We implement safeguards to protect your data:

  • Encryption: SSL/TLS for data transfers.
  • Access Controls: Limited to authorized personnel.
  • Regular Audits: Vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.

6. Data Retention

We retain data only as long as necessary:

  • Active Accounts: Until termination + 6 years (legal/tax compliance).
  • Royalty Records: 10 years (audit purposes).

7. Your Rights

Under POPIA and GDPR, you have the right to:

  1. Access your personal data.
  2. Correct inaccurate information.
  3. Delete data (where legally permissible).
  4. Restrict or object to processing.
  5. Data portability (machine-readable format).

To exercise these rights, email support@recognitiongroup.co.za with proof of identity.

8. International Transfers

Data may be transferred outside South Africa/EU to DSPs or servers. We ensure safeguards like:

  • Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs).
  • DSP compliance with GDPR/POPIA.

9. Cookies & Tracking

We use cookies to improve site functionality. For details, see our Cookie Policy.

10. Data Breach Notification

In the event of a breach risking your rights, we will notify you and authorities within 72 hours.

11. Contact Us

Data Protection Officer (DPO):
Email: support@recognitiongroup.co.za
Address: 214 Peter Booysens Terrace, Klipriviersoog Estate, Soweto, 1811, South Africa

12. Updates

We may update this policy periodically. Changes will be posted here with a revised “Last Updated” date.

By using our Services, you acknowledge you have read and agree to this policy.