PRIVACY POLICY
**Western Credit Institute**
**www.westerncreditinstitute.com**
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**Effective Date:** September 3, 2017
**Last Updated:** July 25, 2025
1. INTRODUCTION
Western Credit Institute ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your information when you visit our website (www.westerncreditinstitute.com) and use our credit repair educational services.
By using our website and services, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.
2. INFORMATION WE COLLECT
2.1 Personal Information
We may collect the following personal information:
• **Contact Information:** Name, email address, phone number, mailing address
• **Account Information:** Username, password, billing information
• **Payment Information:** Credit card details, billing address (processed through secure third-party payment processors)
• **Educational Information:** Course progress, quiz results, completion certificates
• **Communication Records:** Customer service interactions, support tickets, feedback
2.2 Automatically Collected Information
• **Technical Data:** IP address, browser type, operating system, device information
• **Usage Data:** Pages visited, time spent on site, click patterns, referral sources
• **Cookies and Tracking:** Session cookies, preference cookies, analytics cookies
2.3 Information from Third Parties
• Payment processor information for transaction verification
• Social media information if you choose to connect social accounts
• Marketing partner data for advertising purposes (with your consent)
3. HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION
We use your information for the following purposes:
3.1 Service Provision
• Provide access to our credit repair educational class
• Process payments and manage your account
• Track course progress and issue completion certificates
• Provide customer support and respond to inquiries
3.2 Communication
• Send course-related updates and announcements
• Provide technical support and customer service
• Send marketing communications (with your consent)
• Notify you of policy changes or important updates
3.3 Business Operations
• Improve our website and educational content
• Conduct analytics and research
• Prevent fraud and ensure security
• Comply with legal obligations
4. LEGAL BASIS FOR PROCESSING (GDPR)
We process your personal information based on:
• **Contract Performance:** To provide our educational services
• **Legitimate Interest:** For business operations, security, and improvements
• **Consent:** For marketing communications and non-essential cookies
• **Legal Obligation:** To comply with applicable laws and regulations
5. DATA SHARING AND DISCLOSURE
5.1 We DO NOT sell your personal information to third parties.
5.2 We may share information with:
• **Service Providers:** Payment processors, hosting providers, email services, analytics providers
• **Legal Requirements:** When required by law, court order, or government request
• **Business Transfers:** In connection with mergers, acquisitions, or asset sales
• **Protection of Rights:** To protect our rights, property, or safety, or that of others
5.3 Third-Party Services
• **Payment Processing:** Stripe, PayPal, or similar secure processors
• **Email Services:** For course communications and marketing
• **Analytics:** Google Analytics (anonymized data)
• **Customer Support:** Help desk and chat services
6. DATA STORAGE AND SECURITY
6.1 Data Storage
• Information is stored on secure servers in the United States
• We retain data only as long as necessary for business purposes
• Account information is retained for 7 years after account closure
• Marketing data is retained until you opt out
6.2 Security Measures
• SSL encryption for data transmission
• Secure database storage with access controls
• Regular security audits and updates
• Employee training on data protection
• Multi-factor authentication for administrative access
6.3 Data Breach Response
In the event of a data breach, we will:
• Notify affected users within 72 hours
• Report to relevant authorities as required
• Take immediate steps to secure the breach
• Provide guidance on protective measures
7. YOUR RIGHTS AND CHOICES
7.1 Access and Control Rights
You have the right to:
• **Access:** Request a copy of your personal information
• **Correction:** Update or correct inaccurate information
• **Deletion:** Request deletion of your personal information
• **Portability:** Receive your data in a portable format
• **Restriction:** Limit how we process your information
• **Objection:** Object to certain processing activities
7.2 Marketing Opt-Out Procedures
• **Email:** Click "unsubscribe" in any marketing email
• **Account Settings:** Update preferences in your account dashboard
• **Contact Us:** Email privacy@westerncreditinstitute.com
• **Phone:** Call [INSERT PHONE NUMBER] during business hours
7.3 Cookie Management
• **Browser Settings:** Disable cookies through browser preferences
• **Opt-Out Tools:** Use industry opt-out tools for advertising cookies
• **Essential Cookies:** Some cookies are necessary for site functionality
8. INTERNATIONAL DATA TRANSFERS
If you are located outside the United States, your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international transfers, including:
• Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs)
• Adequacy decisions by relevant authorities
• Your explicit consent where required
9. CHILDREN'S PRIVACY
Our services are not intended for individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18. If we become aware that we have collected information from a child under 18, we will delete it immediately.
10. CALIFORNIA PRIVACY RIGHTS (CCPA)
California residents have additional rights:
• **Right to Know:** Categories and specific pieces of information collected
• **Right to Delete:** Request deletion of personal information
• **Right to Opt-Out:** Opt out of sale of personal information (we do not sell data)
• **Non-Discrimination:** We will not discriminate for exercising privacy rights
To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@westerncreditinstitute.com.
11. UPDATES TO THIS POLICY
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will:
• Post the updated policy on our website
• Notify users of material changes via email
• Update the "Last Updated" date
• Obtain consent for material changes where required
12. CONTACT INFORMATION
For privacy-related questions or requests:
**Privacy Officer**
Western Credit Institute
Email: privacy@westerncreditinstitute.com
Phone: 1-800-437-8557
Address: PO Box 28295 Anaheim, CA 92809
**Response Time:** We will respond to privacy requests within 30 days.
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*This Privacy Policy is designed to comply with GDPR, CCPA, and other applicable privacy laws. For specific legal advice, consult with a qualified attorney.*
