MEP Central Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 1/1/2025
Last Updated: 10/15/2025

Introduction

MEP Central ("we," "us," "our," or "MEP Central") is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our website, mobile applications, and related services (collectively, the "Platform").

Please read this Privacy Policy carefully. By accessing or using the Platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with this Privacy Policy, please do not use the Platform.

This Privacy Policy is incorporated into and subject to our Terms of Use and Terms and Conditions.

Information We Collect
How We Use Your Information
How We Share Your Information
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
Third-Party Services
Data Security
Data Retention
Your Privacy Rights and Choices
Children's Privacy
State-Specific Privacy Rights
International Users
Changes to This Privacy Policy
Contact Us

1. Information We Collect

We collect information that you provide directly to us, information collected automatically, and information from third-party sources.

1.1 Information You Provide to Us

Account Registration Information:

Full name
Email address
Phone number
Password
Username
Mailing address and shipping addresses
Billing address
Business name and tax ID (for business accounts)
Professional license information (for contractor accounts)

Transaction Information:

Payment card information (processed by third-party payment processors)
Purchase history and order details
Shipping and delivery preferences
Return and refund information
Communication preferences

Seller Information (for Supplier Accounts):

Business registration and licensing documents
Banking and payout information
Tax identification numbers
Business contact information
Product catalog and inventory data
Fulfillment capabilities and shipping rates
Business Central or ERP integration credentials

User-Generated Content:

Product reviews and ratings
Questions and answers
Photos and videos
Comments and feedback
Messages to sellers or customer support
Profile information and preferences

Communications:

Customer service inquiries and correspondence
Survey responses and feedback
Marketing preferences and subscriptions
Communications with sellers

Technical Support Information:

Device information and system logs
Error reports and diagnostic data
Screenshots or recordings (when you provide them for support)

1.2 Information Collected Automatically

When you access or use the Platform, we automatically collect:

Device and Usage Information:

IP address
Browser type and version
Operating system
Device identifiers (mobile device ID, advertising ID)
Screen resolution and device settings
Referring and exit pages
Pages viewed and links clicked
Time and date of access
Time spent on pages
Search queries and terms

Location Information:

Approximate location based on IP address
Precise location (if you grant permission on mobile devices)
Shipping and billing address locations

Cookies and Similar Technologies:

Cookies, web beacons, pixel tags, and similar tracking technologies
Session cookies and persistent cookies
Analytics and advertising cookies
(See Section 4 for details)

Transactional Data:

Items viewed, searched, and purchased
Shopping cart contents
Wishlist and saved items
Browsing history on the Platform
Click patterns and navigation paths

1.3 Information from Third-Party Sources

We may receive information about you from:

Payment Processors:

Payment verification and transaction data
Fraud detection information
Chargeback and dispute information

Shipping Carriers:

Delivery status and tracking information
Address verification data
Delivery confirmation

Business Partners:

Marketing partners and affiliates
Verification services (identity, business, credit)
Data enrichment services

Social Media:

Information you choose to share when connecting social media accounts
Public profile information (if you link accounts)

Business Central and ERP Systems:

Product catalog and inventory synchronization
Order and fulfillment data
Customer account information (for business customers)

Public Sources:

Business registration databases
Professional licensing records
Publicly available information

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect for the following purposes:

2.1 Provide Platform Services

Create and manage your account
Process transactions and orders
Facilitate communication between buyers and sellers
Provide customer support
Send transactional notifications (order confirmations, shipping updates, etc.)
Process returns and refunds
Manage seller accounts and payouts
Synchronize data with Business Central and other business systems

2.2 Improve and Personalize the Platform

Personalize your experience and recommend relevant products
Remember your preferences and settings
Analyze usage patterns and trends
Conduct research and analytics
Test new features and functionality
Improve Platform performance and user experience
Develop new products and services

2.3 Marketing and Communications

Send promotional emails and newsletters (with your consent)
Display targeted advertising
Provide special offers and promotions
Conduct surveys and request feedback
Announce new products, features, or services
Send service announcements and updates

2.4 Safety, Security, and Legal Compliance

Detect and prevent fraud, abuse, and security incidents
Verify identity and authenticate users
Enforce our Terms of Use and Terms and Conditions
Protect against malicious, deceptive, or illegal activity
Comply with legal obligations and respond to legal requests
Protect the rights, property, and safety of MEP Central, users, and others
Resolve disputes and enforce agreements
Maintain accurate business and financial records

2.5 Business Operations

Manage seller relationships and partnerships
Process payments and manage accounts receivable
Calculate and pay referral commissions
Generate analytics and business intelligence
Maintain quality control and performance metrics
Conduct audits and financial reporting
Manage business risks and strategic planning

3. How We Share Your Information

We share your information in the following circumstances:

3.1 With Sellers

When you place an order, we share relevant information with the seller, including:

Your name and shipping address
Contact information (phone number, email)
Order details and product selections
Delivery instructions

Sellers are independent businesses and are responsible for protecting the information you share with them. We encourage you to review sellers' privacy practices.

3.2 Service Providers and Business Partners

We share information with third-party service providers who perform services on our behalf:

Payment Processing:

Credit card processors and payment gateways
Fraud detection and prevention services
ACH and bank transfer providers

Shipping and Fulfillment:

Shipping carriers (UPS, FedEx, USPS, freight carriers)
Address verification services
Warehouse and logistics providers

Technology Services:

Cloud hosting providers (Microsoft Azure)
Database management services
Content delivery networks (CDN)
Email service providers
SMS and communication platforms
Analytics and business intelligence tools

Marketing and Advertising:

Email marketing platforms
Advertising networks and platforms
Social media advertising services
Marketing analytics providers

Business Systems Integration:

Microsoft Business Central
ERP system connectors
API integration partners

Professional Services:

Legal counsel and advisors
Accounting and financial services
Business consultants
Customer support providers

3.3 Business Transfers

If MEP Central is involved in a merger, acquisition, asset sale, bankruptcy, or other business transaction, your information may be transferred as part of that transaction. You will be notified via email and/or prominent notice on the Platform of any change in ownership or use of your information.

3.4 Legal Requirements and Protection of Rights

We may disclose your information when required by law or when we believe disclosure is necessary to:

Comply with legal obligations, court orders, or legal processes
Respond to lawful requests from government authorities
Enforce our Terms of Use, Terms and Conditions, or other agreements
Protect the rights, property, or safety of MEP Central, our users, or others
Prevent or investigate fraud, security issues, or illegal activity
Defend against legal claims

3.5 With Your Consent

We may share your information with third parties when you provide explicit consent or direct us to do so.

3.6 Aggregated and De-Identified Information

We may share aggregated, anonymized, or de-identified information that cannot reasonably be used to identify you. This includes:

Market research and industry reports
Platform usage statistics
Trend analysis and benchmarking
Product performance data

3.7 Public Information

Information you choose to make public is accessible to other users and the public:

Product reviews and ratings
Public profile information
Questions and answers on product pages
Photos and videos you upload to public areas

4. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

4.1 What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help websites remember information about your visit. We use cookies and similar technologies (web beacons, pixels, local storage) to enhance your experience on the Platform.

4.2 Types of Cookies We Use

Essential Cookies (Required):

Authentication and account access
Shopping cart functionality
Security and fraud prevention
Load balancing and performance
These cookies are necessary for the Platform to function and cannot be disabled

Functional Cookies (Optional):

Remember your preferences and settings
Language and location preferences
Display preferences and customization
Previously viewed items

Analytics Cookies (Optional):

Understand how visitors use the Platform
Measure Platform performance
Identify popular products and features
Improve user experience
We use Google Analytics, Microsoft Clarity, and similar services

Advertising Cookies (Optional):

Deliver relevant advertisements
Track ad campaign effectiveness
Limit the number of times you see an ad
Measure conversion rates
We use Google Ads, Facebook Pixel, and similar services

Social Media Cookies (Optional):

Enable social media sharing
Track social media referrals
Display social media content
Platforms include Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram

4.3 Third-Party Cookies

Third-party services may set their own cookies on your device. We do not control these cookies. Please review the privacy policies of these third parties:

Google (Analytics, Ads)
Facebook (Pixel, Ads)
Microsoft (Clarity, Advertising)
Payment processors
Shipping carriers

4.4 Managing Cookies

Browser Settings: You can control cookies through your browser settings:

Block all cookies
Block third-party cookies
Delete cookies after each session
Receive notifications when cookies are set

Note: Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from using certain Platform features.

Opt-Out Tools:

Google Analytics Opt-Out: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
Network Advertising Initiative: https://optout.networkadvertising.org/
Digital Advertising Alliance: https://optout.aboutads.info/

Do Not Track: Some browsers have "Do Not Track" features. We currently do not respond to Do Not Track signals, but we honor your cookie preferences.

4.5 Mobile Device Tracking

On mobile devices, you can:

Reset your advertising identifier
Opt out of personalized advertising
Limit ad tracking in device settings
Disable location services

5. Third-Party Services

5.1 Third-Party Links

The Platform may contain links to third-party websites, services, or content. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing any information.

5.2 Third-Party Integrations

We integrate with various third-party services:

Payment Processing:

Stripe, PayPal, or other payment processors
These services collect payment information directly
We do not store complete credit card numbers

Shipping Services:

Integration with carrier APIs for tracking and rates
Address validation services

Business Systems:

Microsoft Business Central ERP integration
API connections for inventory and order management

Communication Services:

Email service providers (for transactional and marketing emails)
SMS providers (for order notifications)

Social Media:

Social login and sharing features
Social media advertising platforms

Each third-party service has its own privacy policy and data practices. We are not responsible for how these services collect or use your information.

5.3 Seller Privacy Practices

Sellers on our Platform are independent businesses with their own privacy practices. When you purchase from a seller, your information is shared with that seller. We encourage sellers to maintain strong privacy protections, but we are not responsible for their data practices.

6. Data Security

6.1 Security Measures

We implement reasonable technical, administrative, and physical security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, alteration, and disclosure:

Technical Safeguards:

Encryption of data in transit (TLS/SSL)
Encryption of sensitive data at rest
Secure cloud hosting on Microsoft Azure
Regular security assessments and penetration testing
Intrusion detection and prevention systems
Firewalls and access controls
Multi-factor authentication options

Administrative Safeguards:

Employee training on data protection
Limited access to personal information (need-to-know basis)
Confidentiality agreements with employees and contractors
Background checks for employees with data access
Incident response and breach notification procedures

Physical Safeguards:

Secure data center facilities
Physical access controls
Environmental controls and monitoring

6.2 Payment Security

Payment information is processed by PCI-DSS compliant payment processors
We do not store complete credit card numbers on our servers
Payment card data is tokenized for secure storage
All payment transactions are encrypted

6.3 Account Security

You are responsible for:

Maintaining the confidentiality of your password
Restricting access to your account
Notifying us immediately of unauthorized access
Using strong, unique passwords
Logging out of your account when finished

6.4 Security Limitations

No security system is perfect. While we strive to protect your information, we cannot guarantee absolute security. Risks include:

Transmission of data over the internet is not completely secure
Unauthorized access, hacking, or data breaches may occur
Human error or technical failures may compromise security
Third-party service providers may experience breaches

In the event of a data breach that affects your personal information, we will notify you as required by applicable law.

7. Data Retention

7.1 How Long We Keep Your Information

We retain your information for as long as necessary to:

Provide Platform services
Maintain your account
Comply with legal obligations
Resolve disputes and enforce agreements
Prevent fraud and abuse
Fulfill legitimate business purposes

7.2 Retention Periods

Account Information:

Active accounts: Retained while your account is active
Inactive accounts: May be deleted after prolonged inactivity (typically 3+ years)
Closed accounts: Retained for 7 years for legal and accounting purposes

Transaction Records:

Order and payment history: 7 years (tax and accounting requirements)
Invoice and financial records: 7 years
Shipping and delivery records: 3 years

Communications:

Customer service records: 3 years
Marketing communications: Until you unsubscribe, then 30 days

Technical Data:

Server logs and analytics: 18-24 months
Cookies: As specified in cookie settings (typically 30 days to 2 years)

Legal Holds:

Information subject to legal proceedings or investigations is retained until resolution

7.3 Deletion and Anonymization

When retention periods expire:

Personal information is deleted or anonymized
Backup copies are deleted according to backup retention schedules
Some information may be retained in anonymized form for analytics

8. Your Privacy Rights and Choices

8.1 Access and Update Your Information

You have the right to:

Access your personal information
Update or correct inaccurate information
Download a copy of your data

How to exercise: Log into your account and visit your profile settings, or contact us at privacy@mepcentral.com

8.2 Delete Your Account and Information

You may request deletion of your account and personal information.

How to request: Contact us at privacy@mepcentral.com

Important notes:

Some information may be retained for legal or legitimate business purposes
Transaction records may be retained for tax and accounting requirements
Information shared with sellers or third parties may be subject to their retention policies
Deletion may take up to 30 days to complete

8.3 Marketing Communications

You can control marketing communications:

Email Marketing:

Unsubscribe link in every marketing email
Update email preferences in account settings
Contact us to opt out: privacy@mepcentral.com

Note: You will still receive transactional emails (order confirmations, shipping notifications) even if you opt out of marketing.

SMS/Text Messages:

Reply STOP to opt out
Update SMS preferences in account settings

Phone Calls:

Request to be added to our Do Not Call list
We do not make unsolicited sales calls

8.4 Cookie Preferences

Manage cookies through:

Browser settings
Cookie consent banner on first visit
Account settings (for logged-in users)

8.5 Targeted Advertising

Opt out of targeted advertising:

Adjust cookie preferences
Use industry opt-out tools (DAA, NAI)
Reset advertising ID on mobile devices
Use browser privacy settings

8.6 Location Data

Control location sharing:

Deny location permissions in browser or device settings
We will use approximate location based on IP address if precise location is denied

8.7 Object to Processing

You may object to certain uses of your information:

Direct marketing
Profiling for personalized content
Data sharing with specific third parties

How to object: Contact privacy@mepcentral.com

9. Children's Privacy

9.1 Age Restriction

The Platform is not intended for children under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18.

9.2 Parental Notice

If you are a parent or guardian and believe your child has provided personal information to us, please contact us at privacy@mepcentral.com. We will delete the information as required by law.

9.3 Age Verification

By using the Platform, you represent that you are at least 18 years old.

10. State-Specific Privacy Rights

10.1 California Privacy Rights (CCPA/CPRA)

If you are a California resident, you have additional rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA):

Right to Know: You can request information about:

Categories of personal information collected
Sources of personal information
Business purposes for collection
Categories of third parties with whom we share information
Specific pieces of personal information we have about you

Right to Delete: Request deletion of your personal information (subject to exceptions)

Right to Opt-Out of Sale/Sharing: California residents can opt out of the "sale" or "sharing" of personal information

We do not "sell" personal information for monetary consideration
We may "share" information for targeted advertising purposes
Opt out by clicking "Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information" or contacting us

Right to Correct: Request correction of inaccurate personal information

Right to Limit Use of Sensitive Personal Information: We do not use sensitive personal information in ways that trigger this right

Right to Non-Discrimination: We will not discriminate against you for exercising your privacy rights

Authorized Agent: You may designate an authorized agent to make requests on your behalf

How to Exercise Your Rights:

Email: privacy@mepcentral.com
Phone: [Phone Number]
Online form: [URL]
We will verify your identity before processing requests
Response time: 45 days (may extend 45 additional days)

Shine the Light Law: California residents may request information about disclosure of personal information to third parties for direct marketing purposes

10.2 Virginia Privacy Rights (VCDPA)

Virginia residents have the right to:

Confirm whether we process your personal data
Access your personal data
Correct inaccuracies in your personal data
Delete your personal data
Obtain a copy of your personal data
Opt out of targeted advertising, sale of personal data, or profiling

10.3 Colorado Privacy Rights (CPA)

Colorado residents have similar rights to Virginia residents, plus:

Right to opt out of profiling in furtherance of decisions that produce legal or similarly significant effects

10.4 Connecticut Privacy Rights (CTDPA)

Connecticut residents have rights similar to Virginia residents.

10.5 Other State Privacy Rights

Residents of states with comprehensive privacy laws have rights similar to those described above. Contact us to exercise your rights.

10.6 How to Exercise State-Specific Rights

Submit a Request:

Email: privacy@mepcentral.com
Phone: [Phone Number]
Online form: [URL]

Verification Process: We will verify your identity using information we have on file or by requesting additional verification information.

Appeal Process: If we deny your request, you have the right to appeal. Contact us to initiate an appeal.

11. International Users

11.1 United States Operations

MEP Central operates primarily in the United States. The Platform is hosted on servers located in the United States. By using the Platform, you consent to the transfer of your information to the United States.

11.2 International Data Transfers

If you access the Platform from outside the United States:

Your information will be transferred to and processed in the United States
The United States may have different data protection laws than your country
We implement appropriate safeguards for international transfers

11.3 European Economic Area (EEA) Users

If you are located in the EEA, you may have additional rights under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR):

Right of access, rectification, erasure, and data portability
Right to restrict or object to processing
Right to withdraw consent
Right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority

Legal Basis for Processing:

Performance of a contract (to provide Platform services)
Legitimate interests (to improve services, prevent fraud)
Consent (for marketing communications and optional features)
Legal obligations (to comply with laws)

Data Protection Officer: For GDPR inquiries, contact: dpo@mepcentral.com

11.4 Other International Users

Users in other countries may have privacy rights under local laws. Contact us to inquire about your rights.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

12.1 Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect:

Changes in our practices
Changes in applicable laws
New features or services
Feedback from users

12.2 Notice of Changes

When we make material changes, we will notify you by:

Updating the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy
Sending an email to the address associated with your account
Posting a notice on the Platform
Displaying a pop-up notification when you log in

12.3 Continued Use

Your continued use of the Platform after changes to this Privacy Policy constitutes acceptance of the updated policy. If you do not agree with changes, please discontinue use of the Platform.

12.4 Review Regularly

We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically to stay informed about our privacy practices.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:

MEP Central Privacy Team
[Street Address]
Houston, TX [Zip Code]

Email: privacy@mepcentral.com
Phone: [Phone Number]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Central Time

For California Requests: california-privacy@mepcentral.com
For GDPR Inquiries: dpo@mepcentral.com

General Customer Support:
Email: support@mepcentral.com
Phone: [Phone Number]

Summary of Key Points

✓ We collect information you provide, information collected automatically, and information from third parties
✓ We use information to provide services, improve the Platform, and communicate with you
✓ We share information with sellers, service providers, and as required by law
✓ We use cookies and tracking technologies (you can manage preferences)
✓ We implement security measures to protect your information
✓ You have rights to access, update, delete, and control your information
✓ We retain information as long as necessary for legitimate purposes
✓ State-specific privacy rights apply (California, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, etc.)
✓ The Platform is not for children under 18
✓ We may update this policy; we will notify you of material changes

By using MEP Central, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy.

Last Updated: 10/15/2025
Version: 1.0

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