Effective Date: 02 April 2026
Last Updated: 02 April 2026
1. Introduction
Welcome to Hike (“we,” “our,” or “us”).
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you use:
- The Hike User App
- The Hike Driver App
- Any related services, websites, or platforms (collectively, the “Services”)
By using Hike, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.
2. Our Services
Hike provides a digital platform that connects users for transportation services, including:
- Rides (Rideshare) – On-demand transport services
- Lifts (Carpooling) – Shared ride arrangements
- Driver Services – Available through both the Hike User App and the Hike Driver App
3. Information We Collect
3.1 Personal Information
We collect information you provide directly, including:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Profile photo
3.2 Identity & Verification Information
To ensure safety and trust on the platform, we may collect:
- Government-issued identification
- Proof of residence
- Driver’s license
- Background verification details (where applicable)
3.3 Vehicle Information (Drivers)
We collect and verify:
- Vehicle images (interior and exterior)
- Vehicle registration documents
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and year
3.4 Location Data
We collect:
- Real-time GPS location
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Route and trip data
Drivers: Location may be collected while the app is running in the background when online.
3.5 Payment Information
- Payment method details
- Transaction history
Payments are processed through secure third-party providers. We do not store full card details.
3.6 Usage & Device Information
We automatically collect:
- Device type and operating system
- IP address
- App usage data
- Crash logs and diagnostics
3.7 Communications
- In-app messages between users
- Customer support interactions
- Ratings, reviews, and feedback
4. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide and operate the Hike platform
- Match users for rides and lifts
- Verify identity and maintain platform safety
- Process payments and payouts
- Improve app performance and features
- Communicate with you (updates, alerts, support)
- Detect and prevent fraud or misuse
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations
5. How We Share Your Information
5.1 Between Users
To enable trips:
- Users may see limited profile details (name, photo)
- Trip-related information (pickup/drop-off) is shared
5.2 Service Providers
We may share data with trusted third parties, including:
- Payment processors
- Cloud hosting providers
- Analytics services
- Customer support platforms
5.3 Legal Requirements
We may disclose your information if required to:
- Comply with applicable laws
- Respond to legal processes
- Protect the safety, rights, or property of users and Hike
5.4 Business Transfers
Your data may be transferred in the event of:
- A merger
- Acquisition
- Sale of assets
6. Data Retention
We retain your information:
- For as long as your account is active
- As necessary to provide services
- To comply with legal obligations
- To resolve disputes and enforce agreements
7. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures, including:
- Secure servers
- Data encryption where applicable
- Access controls
However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure.
8. Your Rights
In accordance with applicable laws, including South African law, you have the right to:
- Access your personal information
- Correct or update inaccurate data
- Request deletion of your data
- Object to or restrict processing
- Withdraw consent where applicable
To exercise your rights, contact us at: [email protected]
9. Location & Background Tracking
- Location data is essential to provide ride and lift services
- Background location may be collected when the app is active and in use for trip functionality
- You can manage location permissions through your device settings
10. Children’s Privacy
Hike is not intended for individuals under the age of 18.
We do not knowingly collect personal data from minors.
11. Third-Party Services
We may use third-party services such as:
- Payment gateways
- Mapping and navigation services
- Analytics providers
These services operate under their own privacy policies.
12. Account Deletion
You may request to delete your account by:
- Using in-app settings, or
- Contacting support
Upon deletion:
- Personal data will be deleted or anonymized
- Certain data may be retained for legal or regulatory reasons
13. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time.
Updates will be communicated via:
- App notifications
- Updated “Last Updated” date
14. POPIA Compliance
Hike complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and is committed to protecting your personal information.
We ensure that:
- Personal information is processed lawfully and transparently
- Data is collected for specific, legitimate purposes
- Only necessary data is collected and processed
- Reasonable security safeguards are in place
- You have the right to access, correct, or delete your data
If you believe your data has been misused, you may contact us or lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator of South Africa.
15. International Data Transfers
Your information may be stored or processed in countries outside of your own.
We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your data.
16. Consent
By using Hike, you:
- Agree to this Privacy Policy
- Consent to the collection and use of your information as described
17. Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns:
Hike Support
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27634853489
