Privacy Policy

Effective date: March 2, 2026. This policy explains how CarSear handles personal information in line with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

1. What Information We Collect

We collect only the information needed to run CarSear:

  • Account and newsletter details: email address and related preferences.
  • Service usage data: saved searches, alert settings, click activity, and basic technical data such as browser type and approximate location.
  • Security data: logs used to prevent abuse, monitor service health, and protect user accounts.

2. How We Use Information

We use personal information to:

  • operate search, alerts, and newsletter features;
  • improve site reliability and performance;
  • prevent fraud, spam, and misuse;
  • communicate service updates and respond to support requests.

3. Cookies, Analytics, and Similar Technologies

CarSear uses cookies and similar technologies for session handling, security controls, and analytics. These technologies help us understand usage trends and improve the website experience.

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Some features may not function correctly if essential cookies are disabled.

4. Sharing With Third Parties

We may share limited information with service providers that help us run CarSear, including:

  • analytics providers;
  • email delivery and notification providers;
  • hosting and infrastructure providers.

We do not sell personal information. Where third parties process data for us, they do so under contractual controls.

5. Legal Basis and Australian Compliance

We handle personal information for legitimate business purposes connected to operating CarSear, performing services requested by users, complying with legal obligations, and protecting platform security. We apply APP principles including data minimisation, transparency, and access/correction rights.

6. Data Retention

We retain personal information only for as long as needed for service delivery, compliance, dispute management, and security investigations. When data is no longer required, we delete or de-identify it.

7. Your Rights

Subject to applicable law, you may request to:

  • access the personal information we hold about you;
  • correct inaccurate or outdated information;
  • delete your account-related data where permitted.

To make a request, contact us at support@carsear.com.

8. Security Measures

We use reasonable technical and organisational safeguards to protect personal information, including access controls, encrypted transport, and monitoring for suspicious activity.

9. Updates to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Material updates will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.

10. Governing Law and Contact

This policy is governed by the laws of Australia. For privacy questions, requests, or complaints, contact support@carsear.com.

See also our Terms of Service.