Privacy Policy
Nepal Forest Certificate (NFC)
1. Introduction
The Nepal Forest Certificate (NFC) application ("the App") is developed to facilitate forest certification data collection processes in Nepal.
This App is built on the ODK Collect platform and is intended for use by authorized field enumerators, forest officers, and designated personnel involved in forest certification workflows.
This Privacy Policy explains how the App collects, uses, stores, and shares information when you use it. By installing and using the App, you agree to the practices described in this policy.
2. Data Controller
The App is operated and managed by the authorized implementing organization responsible for Nepal's forest certification program. For inquiries regarding data handling, users may contact the designated system administrator or data manager of the program.
3. Information We Collect
3.1 User-Provided Data
Forest parcel and land boundary information
Respondent or landowner identification details
Field observations and certification assessment data
Geographic coordinates (GPS location)
Photographs and media captured during surveys
Signatures and acknowledgment records
3.2 Device and Technical Data
Device identifiers used for form submission tracking
GPS/location data for field georeferencing
Storage access for forms and offline data
Network status for synchronization
3.3 User Account Data
Username and credentials used to authenticate with the server
Form submission timestamps and user activity logs
4. How We Use the Data
5. Data Storage and Security
Field data is encrypted and stored locally until synchronization
Data is transmitted securely over HTTPS/TLS connections
Server access is restricted to authorized personnel
Role-based access controls are enforced
Security standards are followed to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure
6. Data Sharing and Disclosure
Shared with authorized government agencies when required
Shared with implementing partners for program operations
Disclosed only when required by law
Used in anonymized or aggregated form for reporting or research
7. Permissions Required
| Permission | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Location (GPS) | Capturing geographic coordinates |
| Camera | Taking field assessment photographs |
| Storage | Saving forms and media |
| Internet Access | Submitting forms to the server |
| Network State | Detecting sync connectivity |
8. Data Retention
- Data submitted to the central server is retained in accordance with the data management policies of the implementing organization and applicable national regulations.
- Locally stored data on a device is automatically cleared upon successful submission and user logout, depending on the configured ODK settings.
- Users may request deletion of their account data by contacting the system administrator.
9. Children's Privacy
The App is intended solely for use by adults in an official capacity (field enumerators, forest officers, government staff). It is not directed at children under the age of 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal data from minors.
10. Third-Party Services
The App is based on ODK Collect, an open-source data collection platform. While ODK Collect itself does not collect user data on behalf of the App, users should note:
- ODK Collect is governed by its own open-source licensing terms.
- The central server infrastructure may be hosted on cloud platforms that have their own data processing agreements.
11. User Rights
Authorized users of the App have the right to:
- Access the data they have submitted through the App
- Request correction of inaccurate records
- Request deletion of personal data, subject to program retention requirements
- Contact the system administrator for data-related concerns
12. Changes to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in the App, operational requirements, or applicable law. Continued use of the App after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
13. Contact Information
Program Data Manager / System Administrator
Nepal Forest Certificate Program
Ministry of Forests and Environment / Implementing Organization
https://nfc.phunka.com.np