Privacy Policy

Last updated: September 27, 2026

1. Introduction

Vatican Express ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our bus booking platform and services.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We collect information you provide directly, including:

  • Name, email address, and phone number
  • Payment information (processed securely by payment partners)
  • Travel preferences and booking history
  • ID information for verification purposes
  • Emergency contact details

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

When you use our Service, we automatically collect:

  • Device information (type, operating system, browser)
  • IP address and location data
  • Usage data (pages visited, features used, time spent)
  • Cookies and similar tracking technologies

2.3 Information from Third Parties

We may receive information from:

  • Bus operators (trip status, boarding confirmations)
  • Payment processors (transaction verification)
  • Social media platforms (if you connect your account)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Process and manage your bookings
  • Send booking confirmations and travel updates
  • Process payments and refunds
  • Provide customer support
  • Improve our services and user experience
  • Send promotional communications (with your consent)
  • Prevent fraud and ensure security
  • Comply with legal obligations

4. Information Sharing

We may share your information with:

4.1 Bus Operators

We share passenger details with bus operators to fulfill your booking. This includes name, contact information, and any special requests.

4.2 Payment Processors

Payment information is processed by certified payment partners (Paystack, Hubtel) who have their own privacy policies.

4.3 Service Providers

We work with third-party providers for hosting, analytics, SMS services, and customer support. They process data on our behalf.

4.4 Legal Requirements

We may disclose information when required by law, court order, or to protect our rights, safety, or property.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your information, including:

  • SSL/TLS encryption for data in transit
  • Encrypted storage of sensitive data
  • Regular security audits and updates
  • Access controls and authentication
  • Employee training on data protection

6. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to provide services and comply with legal obligations. Booking records are retained for 7 years for tax and legal purposes. You can request deletion of your account and personal data (see Your Rights below).

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access: Request a copy of your personal data
  • Correction: Request correction of inaccurate data
  • Deletion: Request deletion of your data
  • Objection: Object to processing of your data
  • Portability: Request transfer of your data
  • Withdraw Consent: Withdraw consent for marketing communications

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@vaticanexpress.com.

8. Cookies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience. Types of cookies we use:

  • Essential Cookies: Required for basic functionality
  • Analytics Cookies: Help us understand usage patterns
  • Preference Cookies: Remember your settings
  • Marketing Cookies: Used for targeted advertising (with consent)

You can manage cookie preferences in your browser settings.

9. Children's Privacy

Our Service is not intended for children under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe we have collected information from a child, please contact us.

10. International Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than Cameroon. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for such transfers.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by posting a notice on our website or sending an email. The "Last updated" date indicates when the policy was last revised.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

  • Email: privacy@vaticanexpress.com
  • Phone: +237 XX XXX XXXX
  • Address: Rue de la Liberté, Akwa, Douala, Cameroon

13. Data Protection Officer

You can reach our Data Protection Officer at dpo@vaticanexpress.com for any privacy-related concerns.