ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
1. Introduction
Bchange Online (“we”, “us” or “our”) provides IT consulting, software licensing, domain registration, hosting, and online integration services. This Acceptable Use Policy (“AUP”) forms part of all agreements with Bchange Online and governs the acceptable use of our Services, network, systems, website, and infrastructure.
By using our Services, you agree to comply with this AUP in full. This policy is drafted in accordance with the laws of the Republic of South Africa, including the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002 (ECTA), the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020, the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act 70 of 2002 (RICA), and the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
2. Definitions
- Services: Any products or services provided by Bchange Online, including but not limited to software licensing, domain registrations, hosting, websites, email, IT consulting, and online integrations.
- User: Any individual or entity that accesses or uses our Services, whether as a customer, reseller, or end-user.
- Content: Any data, information, files, software, images, text, or other material transmitted, stored, or published via our Services.
3. Acceptable Use and Lawful Conduct
Our Services may only be used for lawful purposes and in a manner that does not infringe the rights of any person or entity or breach any applicable South African law. You are solely responsible for all Content transmitted or stored through your account.
4. Prohibited Activities
The following activities are strictly prohibited:
- Sending unsolicited bulk email, SMS, or other communications (spam) in contravention of section 45 of the ECTA.
- Hosting, transmitting, or distributing any Content that is illegal, obscene, defamatory, discriminatory, promotes violence or hate speech, or violates the Films and Publications Act 65 of 1996 or the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020.
- Attempting to gain unauthorised access to any part of our network or systems, or engaging in any form of hacking, denial-of-service attack, or security testing without explicit written consent.
- Distributing viruses, malware, trojans, or any other harmful code.
- Using excessive system resources (CPU, bandwidth, storage) that may impair the performance of our Services for other users.
- Impersonating any person or entity or falsely representing your affiliation with any person or entity.
- Operating proxy services, IRC bots, torrent services, or any high-traffic application without prior written approval.
- Any activity that infringes third-party intellectual property rights, including copyright or trademarks.
5. Email and Communication Rules
All email and communication services provided by Bchange Online must comply with anti-spam legislation. You must obtain and retain proof of consent for any mailing lists. We reserve the right to request such evidence within 48 hours of any complaint. Failure to provide it may result in immediate suspension of Services.
6. Monitoring and Enforcement
We may monitor usage of our Services for compliance with this AUP, system security, and legal obligations under RICA and POPIA. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate Services immediately in the event of a serious or repeated breach of this AUP.
7. User Responsibilities and Indemnity
You agree to indemnify and hold Bchange Online harmless against any claims, losses, damages, or liabilities arising from your breach of this AUP or any illegal use of our Services.
8. Changes to this Acceptable Use Policy
We may update this AUP from time to time. The revised version will be posted on our website with an updated effective date. Continued use of our Services after such changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
9. Governing Law
This AUP is governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. You irrevocably submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Gauteng, South Africa.
10. Contact Us
Information Officer / Legal Queries: Bchange Online Management
Email: Click to reveal
Address: Click to reveal
Telephone: Click to reveal