Privacy Policy
Last updated: February 2026
1. Introduction
Deltum (Pty) Ltd ("Deltum", "we", "our", or "us"), a company registered in South Africa, owns and operates HardCoded ("the Platform") at hardcoded.co.za. We are committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use the HardCoded platform.
This policy complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) of South Africa.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Personal Information
We collect information that you provide directly to us:
- Name and email address (required for account creation)
- Username and profile information
- Educational background and career interests (optional)
- Communication preferences
2.2 Learning Data
- Course enrollment and progress
- Lesson completion status
- Challenge submissions and results
- Achievements and certificates earned
- XP, levels, and gamification data
2.3 Technical Information
- IP address and browser type
- Device information
- Usage patterns and interaction data
- Cookies and similar technologies
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide and maintain our learning platform
- Track your learning progress and issue certificates
- Personalize your learning experience
- Send important updates about courses and platform changes
- Improve our content and features
- Prevent fraud and ensure platform security
- Comply with legal obligations
4. Information Sharing
We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information with:
- Service Providers: Third-party services that help operate our platform (email delivery, hosting, analytics)
- Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
- Public Profiles: Information you choose to make public on your portfolio page
5. Your Rights (POPIA)
Under POPIA, you have the right to:
- Access your personal information
- Correct or update your information
- Delete your account and data
- Object to processing of your information
- Withdraw consent at any time
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator
To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@hardcoded.co.za
6. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. This includes:
- Encrypted data transmission (HTTPS/TLS)
- Secure password hashing
- Regular security audits
- Access controls and authentication
7. Data Retention
We retain your personal information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. If you delete your account, we will delete or anonymize your data within 30 days, except where required by law.
8. Cookies
We use cookies and similar technologies to:
- Keep you logged in
- Remember your preferences
- Analyze platform usage
- Improve user experience
You can control cookies through your browser settings, but some features may not work properly without them.
9. Children's Privacy
Our platform is designed for students aged 13 and older. If you are under 18, please obtain parental consent before using our services. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13.
10. International Data Transfers
Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries outside South Africa. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your data in accordance with POPIA.
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by email or through a notice on our platform. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
12. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how Deltum (Pty) Ltd handles your data, contact us at:
- Email: privacy@hardcoded.co.za
- Responsible Party: Deltum (Pty) Ltd
- Information Officer: As required by POPIA
- Address: 1 Falcon Gate, Tudor Avenue, Sunninghill, Johannesburg, 2157
13. Information Regulator
If you are not satisfied with how we handle your personal information, you may lodge a complaint with:
Information Regulator (South Africa)
Email: inforeg@justice.gov.za
Website: inforegulator.org.za