Privacy Policy
Last updated: 2026-03-26
Publik.vote ("we", "us", "our") is a real-time public opinion platform operated by Certifika Inc., based in Quebec, Canada. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use our website (publik.vote) and mobile application.
Data We Collect
Phone Number
We collect your phone number for authentication via SMS one-time passwords (OTP). Your phone number is used solely to verify your identity and prevent duplicate accounts. We do not use it for marketing or share it with advertisers.
Votes
When you vote on a topic, we record your vote (yes/no) along with a timestamp. Votes are tied to your account to allow you to change your mind. Vote results are displayed publicly in aggregate only — no one can see how a specific user voted.
Location Data
We use your IP address to determine your approximate geographic location (country, region, city) using MaxMind GeoLite2 databases processed entirely on our own servers. This allows us to show you polls relevant to your area. We do not use third-party tracking services for geolocation. On the mobile app, you may optionally grant GPS access for more precise location — this is never required.
Optional Profile Data
You may optionally provide demographic information (age range, country, gender, education, occupation). This data is used to enrich aggregate statistics and is never displayed individually. Completing your profile removes advertisements from the app.
Device and Usage Data
We collect standard server logs including IP address, browser type, and pages visited. This data is used for security monitoring, performance optimization, and abuse prevention.
How We Use Your Data
Authenticate your identity via SMS verification
Record and display aggregate voting results
Show polls relevant to your geographic area
Prevent abuse, fraud, and duplicate voting
Improve the platform based on usage patterns
Third-Party Services
Twilio — to send SMS verification codes. Twilio receives your phone number for this purpose only.
Google AdMob — to display interstitial advertisements in the mobile app for users who have not completed their profile. Google may collect device identifiers for ad personalization. You can disable personalized ads in your device settings.
Cloudflare — for content delivery and DDoS protection. Cloudflare may process your IP address.
Data Retention
Your account data and votes are retained as long as your account is active. Server logs are retained for up to 90 days. You may request deletion of your account and all associated data at any time by contacting us.
Your Rights
Access the personal data we hold about you
Request correction of inaccurate data
Request deletion of your account and data
Withdraw consent for optional data processing
Lodge a complaint with a data protection authority
Children's Privacy
Publik.vote is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, please contact us.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Continued use of the platform after changes constitutes acceptance.
Contact
For privacy-related inquiries, contact us at:
Certifika Inc. — Quebec, Canada
[email protected]