Privacy Policy
Your Privacy Matters to Us
Comprehensive Data Protection & Privacy Rights for Professional Services
SVT & Associates is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This comprehensive Privacy Policy outlines our data collection, usage, protection, and your rights regarding personal information in compliance with Indian data protection laws and international standards.
1. Introduction & Scope
Our Privacy Philosophy
At SVT & Associates, we recognize that your privacy is fundamental to building trust in our professional relationship. This Privacy Policy explains our practices regarding the collection, use, disclosure, and protection of personal information in compliance with:
- Information Technology Act, 2000 and Rules
- Chartered Accountants Act, 1949
- ICAI Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct
- International data protection standards
Application: This policy applies to all personal information collected through our website, professional services, client communications, and business interactions.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Personal Information Provided by You
We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide, including:
Identity Information
- Full name and title
- Date of birth
- Gender and nationality
- Photographic identification
Contact Details
- Email addresses
- Phone numbers
- Residential addresses
- Business addresses
Business Information
- Company name and structure
- Business registration details
- Tax identification numbers
- Financial information
Service-Related Data
- Service requirements
- Consultation notes
- Project documentation
- Correspondence records
2.2 Financial Information
We collect financial information necessary for providing professional services:
- Banking Details: Account numbers, routing information (processed through secure third-party payment processors)
- Tax Information: PAN, TAN, GST numbers, income details
- Financial Records: Balance sheets, profit & loss statements, audit information
- Payment Information: Fee arrangements, billing details, payment history
2.3 Automatically Collected Information
Technical & Usage Data
When you visit our website or use our digital services, we automatically collect:
- IP addresses
- Browser type & version
- Operating system
- Device identifiers
- Pages visited
- Time spent on site
- Click patterns
- Referral sources
- Geographic location
- Timezone information
- Network information
3. How We Use Your Information
We use collected information responsibly and only for legitimate business and professional purposes:
Service Delivery
- Provide professional accounting services
- Deliver tax compliance and advisory
- Conduct audits and assurance engagements
- Offer business consulting services
- Process financial transactions securely
Communication
- Respond to inquiries and requests
- Send service-related notifications
- Provide important updates
- Share compliance reminders
- Maintain client relationships
Legal Compliance
- Meet regulatory reporting requirements
- Comply with tax authority obligations
- Maintain professional standards
- Conduct required audits
- Preserve legal documentation
Business Operations
- Analyze website usage and performance
- Improve service quality
- Develop new service offerings
- Process payments and billing
- Maintain business records
4. Information Sharing & Disclosure
Our Commitment to Privacy
We do not sell, trade, rent, or otherwise transfer your personal information to third parties for marketing purposes. Information sharing is limited to specific circumstances required for service delivery or legal compliance.
4.1 Permitted Disclosures
We may share information only in these specific circumstances:
Legal Requirements
Court orders, government requests, legal proceedings, regulatory investigations
Service Providers
Trusted third-party processors under strict confidentiality agreements
Professional Obligations
ICAI requirements, audit standards, regulatory reporting
Your Consent
With your explicit permission for specific purposes
4.2 Business Transfers
In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred to the new entity. We will ensure appropriate safeguards and notify you of such transfers where legally required.
5. Data Security & Protection
Our Security Framework
We implement comprehensive security measures to protect your information against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
5.1 Technical Security Measures
Encryption
- SSL/TLS encryption
- Data in transit protection
- Secure communication channels
- Encrypted storage
Access Controls
- Role-based access
- Multi-factor authentication
- Password policies
- Session management
Infrastructure
- Secure data centers
- Regular backups
- Disaster recovery
- System monitoring
Personnel Security
- Background checks
- Security training
- Confidentiality agreements
- Access monitoring
5.2 Security Limitations
While we implement comprehensive security measures, we must inform you that no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security but are committed to maintaining the highest security standards.
6. Cookies & Tracking Technologies
6.1 Cookie Usage
Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance your browsing experience, analyze website traffic, and provide personalized services. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.
Essential Cookies
Required for website functionality, security, and basic operations
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand visitor behavior and improve website performance
Functional Cookies
Remember your preferences and provide enhanced features
Marketing Cookies
Used to deliver relevant content and advertisements (with consent)
6.2 Cookie Management
You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences. However, disabling certain cookies may affect website functionality and your user experience.
7. Your Privacy Rights & Choices
Your Data Protection Rights
You have comprehensive rights regarding your personal information under applicable data protection laws.
Right to Access
Request information about what personal data we hold about you
Right to Rectification
Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete personal information
Right to Erasure
Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal requirements)
Right to Restriction
Request limitation of processing in certain circumstances
Right to Portability
Request transfer of your data in a structured, machine-readable format
Right to Object
Object to processing based on legitimate interests or direct marketing
7.1 Exercising Your Rights
To exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the information provided below. We will respond to your request within 30 days and may require verification of your identity to protect your privacy.
8. Data Retention & Disposal
8.1 Retention Periods
We retain your personal information only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined in this policy and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements:
8.2 Data Disposal
When information is no longer required, we securely dispose of it through:
- Secure Deletion: Permanent removal from systems and backups
- Physical Destruction: Shredding of paper documents
- Digital Wiping: Overwriting of electronic storage devices
- Third-Party Disposal: Certified disposal services for hardware
9. Third-Party Services & Links
9.1 External Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites and services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices, content, or security of external websites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.
9.2 Third-Party Service Providers
We may engage third-party service providers for specific functions. These providers are contractually obligated to maintain confidentiality and security standards equivalent to our own.
10. Special Categories of Data
10.1 Children's Privacy
Child Protection Policy: Our professional services are intended for adults and businesses. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 years of age. If we become aware of such collection, we will immediately delete the information and cease all interactions.
10.2 Sensitive Personal Information
Certain categories of information are considered sensitive and receive additional protection:
- Financial Data: Bank details, credit information, financial history
- Health Information: Medical records or health-related data
- Biometric Data: Fingerprints, facial recognition, or biometric identifiers
- Religious/Political Data: Religious beliefs, political opinions, or affiliations
11. International Data Transfers
11.1 Cross-Border Transfers
Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than India for legitimate business purposes, including:
- Cloud Services: Secure data storage and processing
- Professional Networks: International accounting associations
- Regulatory Compliance: International reporting requirements
- Service Delivery: Multi-jurisdictional client services
11.2 Transfer Safeguards
We ensure that international transfers comply with applicable data protection laws through:
- Standard Contractual Clauses: EU-approved transfer mechanisms
- Adequacy Decisions: Transfers to countries with adequate protection
- Binding Corporate Rules: Internal data transfer policies
- Certification Schemes: Compliance with recognized standards
12. Privacy Policy Updates
12.1 Policy Amendments
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect:
- Legal Changes: New laws, regulations, or court decisions
- Service Evolution: New services or business processes
- Technology Updates: Changes in data processing technologies
- Best Practices: Industry standards and privacy best practices
12.2 Notification of Changes
Material changes to this policy will be:
- Website Posting: Updated policy published on our website
- Effective Date Update: Clear indication of when changes take effect
- Client Notification: Direct communication for significant changes
- Continued Consent: Your continued use implies acceptance
13. Contact Information & Data Protection Officer
Contact SVT & Associates
For any questions about this Privacy Policy, to exercise your rights, or for data protection concerns, please contact us:
Registered Office
S-13, Bldg.No.3/A, Vishweshwar CHS Ltd,
Sai Siddhi Sankul, Jogeshwari(E),
Mumbai-400060, Maharashtra, India
Contact Numbers
+91 98334 13492
+91 98334 13493
Email Communications
Online Presence
Data Protection Officer
For GDPR-related inquiries, data subject rights requests, or privacy concerns, please contact our Data Protection Officer at: privacy@svtassociates.com
14. Legal Compliance & Governing Law
This Privacy Policy is governed by Indian law and is compliant with:
Our Privacy Commitment
At SVT & Associates, your privacy is our priority. We are committed to protecting your personal information with the highest standards of security, transparency, and professional responsibility.
Policy Information
Effective Date: January 8, 2025
Version: 2.1 | Last Reviewed: January 8, 2025 | Next Review: January 8, 2026