zIntercept Privacy Policy

zIntercept ("Company," "we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy, security, and integrity of all personal and non-personal information collected through our platforms, applications, websites, and affiliated services (collectively, the "Services"). This Privacy Policy ("Policy") describes in meticulous detail the types of information collected, the purposes for which such information is collected and used, the methods by which it is secured, the circumstances under which it may be disclosed, and the rights and obligations of users ("User" or "you"). By accessing or using the Services, you expressly consent to the collection, use, storage, and disclosure of information as described herein. Continued use constitutes acceptance of any amendments, modifications, or updates to this Policy.

1. Information Collection

1.1. Personal Information: We collect information you voluntarily provide when registering for an account, including but not limited to your email address, account credentials, profile data, and optional educational preferences. Passwords are stored securely using cryptographic hashing, and zIntercept cannot access plaintext passwords. By providing personal information, you represent and warrant that the information is accurate, complete, and up-to-date.

1.2. Usage and Technical Information: We automatically collect certain technical and usage information when you access or interact with the Services. This includes, but is not limited to, IP addresses, device and browser type, operating system, access times, session data, pages visited, features accessed, AI tutor interactions, and forum activities. This data is collected for operational, analytical, security, and service improvement purposes.

1.3. AI Tutor Interactions and User-Submitted Content: When you use the AI Tutor feature, you may submit text-based questions and/or images (such as photographs of notes, textbooks, or assignments) to receive educational assistance. This submitted content — including text inputs and uploaded images — is transmitted to OpenAI, L.L.C. ("OpenAI"), a third-party artificial intelligence service provider, for the purpose of generating responses. zIntercept does not permanently store raw AI conversation content on its own servers beyond what is necessary for session continuity and service improvement purposes. All interactions are processed in accordance with OpenAI's data handling practices. Users consent to the transmission of submitted content to OpenAI as described in this Policy and in Section 3.4 below.

2. Use of Information

2.1. Service Delivery: Information is used to facilitate account management, deliver AI tutoring, enable zConnex forum functionality, and provide technical support. User data allows zIntercept to ensure seamless operation, enhance user experience, and optimize system performance.

2.2. Communication: We may use your email address to send service-related updates, notifications, administrative messages, security alerts, or other communications necessary for the proper operation of the Services. Users may opt-out of non-essential communications where permitted by applicable law.

2.3. Analytics and Improvement: Information, including anonymized usage data, may be analyzed to identify trends, improve system design, develop new features, and maintain the security and integrity of the Services. Users acknowledge that usage analysis is an integral part of maintaining and improving the Services.

3. Sharing and Disclosure

3.1. Third-Party Service Providers: zIntercept may share information with trusted third-party service providers solely to enable, maintain, or improve Services. Such providers are contractually obligated to protect your information and use it exclusively for the purposes defined by zIntercept.

3.2. Legal Compliance: zIntercept may disclose information to comply with applicable laws, regulations, subpoenas, court orders, or governmental requests. Information may also be disclosed to protect rights, property, safety, or security of zIntercept, its users, or the public, including in investigations of suspected violations.

3.3. User-Generated Content: Content posted by users on zConnex forums is public and may be accessed, viewed, or shared by other users. zIntercept disclaims all liability for third-party content and is not responsible for any harm, loss, or liability arising from user-generated content.

3.4. Third-Party AI Service — OpenAI AI Disclosure

What data is shared: When you use the AI Tutor feature, your text inputs and any images you upload (e.g., photos of textbook pages, handwritten notes, or assignments) are transmitted to OpenAI, L.L.C. to generate educational responses. This may constitute personal data if it contains personally identifiable information you choose to include in your submission.

How it is collected: Data is collected at the point of submission — when you type a question or upload an image within the AI Tutor interface and submit it for processing.

Purpose of sharing: Your submitted content is shared with OpenAI exclusively to generate AI-powered educational responses. zIntercept does not sell this data or use it for advertising purposes.

How OpenAI handles your data: OpenAI processes submitted content in accordance with its own Privacy Policy and API usage policies, available at openai.com/policies/privacy-policy. By using the AI Tutor feature, you acknowledge and consent to OpenAI's processing of your submitted content under their terms.

Data retention by zIntercept: zIntercept does not permanently store the content of individual AI conversations on its servers beyond session continuity requirements. Anonymized, aggregate usage statistics may be retained for service improvement purposes.

User advisory: Users are strongly advised not to submit sensitive personal information — such as government identification numbers, financial details, or medical information — when using the AI Tutor feature, as this content is transmitted to a third-party service.

4. Cookies, Tracking, and Analytics

We employ cookies, pixel tags, web beacons, and similar technologies to improve functionality, personalize user experience, analyze trends, and measure service effectiveness. Users may disable cookies through browser settings; however, some Services features may become inaccessible or impaired if cookies are disabled. Users consent to the use of such technologies as described herein and acknowledge that continued use implies acceptance of cookies and tracking mechanisms.

5. Data Security

5.1. Safeguards: We implement technical, administrative, and physical safeguards, including encrypted storage, secure transmission protocols, access control mechanisms, and monitoring systems. These measures are designed to minimize risks of unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction of data.

5.2. Limitations: Despite implementing industry-standard security measures, no system can guarantee absolute protection. Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of login credentials and for any actions under their accounts. Users must notify zIntercept immediately of any suspected breaches or unauthorized access.

6. Retention of Information

Information is retained only as long as necessary to provide Services, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, enforce agreements, or fulfill operational purposes. Retention periods vary based on the type of data, legal requirements, and the purposes outlined herein. Upon request, and subject to legal obligations, personal information may be deleted or anonymized.

7. Children's Privacy

The Services are not intended for children under the age of thirteen (13). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under this age. If we discover that information from a child under 13 has been inadvertently collected, we will take immediate steps to delete it. Parents or guardians seeking to inquire about potential collection of a child's data may contact zIntercept at no-reply@zintercept.com. Please also note that any content submitted by users under the age of 13 to AI Tutor features may be transmitted to OpenAI as described in Section 3.4; parents and guardians are advised to supervise such use accordingly.

8. User Rights

Users may access, correct, update, or request deletion of personal information by contacting zIntercept. Users may also opt-out of non-essential communications. zIntercept will process requests in compliance with applicable law, subject to retention requirements, legal obligations, or legitimate business purposes.

9. Third-Party Links and Services

The Services may contain links or integrations with third-party websites, platforms, or services, including OpenAI as described in Section 3.4. zIntercept is not responsible for the privacy practices, content, or security measures of such third parties. Users should review the privacy policies and terms of service of any external entity before interaction. zIntercept disclaims any liability for third-party services, content, or data handling.

10. International Compliance

Users accessing zIntercept from jurisdictions outside of Canada consent to the transfer, storage, and processing of information in accordance with Canadian federal law. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations in their country of access. Please note that data transmitted to OpenAI may be processed in the United States or other jurisdictions in accordance with OpenAI's data handling practices.

11. Modifications to Privacy Policy

zIntercept reserves the right to update this Policy at any time. Revised Policies will be posted on this page, and continued use of Services constitutes acceptance of updates. Users are encouraged to review this Policy regularly to remain informed about collection, usage, and protection practices.

12. Limitation of Liability and Indemnification

To the fullest extent permitted by law, zIntercept shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive, or special damages arising from access, use, or inability to use the Services, including reliance on AI Tutor interactions or content posted on zConnex. Users agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless zIntercept from claims, damages, or liabilities arising from their use of the Services or violation of this Policy.

13. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

This Policy shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the federal laws of Canada. Users agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Canada for disputes relating to this Policy, information handling, or use of Services. Users agree to first attempt informal negotiation or mediation prior to pursuing legal remedies.