Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Bench Energy ("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 website, news platform, analysis articles, and FreightTender services.

2. Information We Collect

We collect information that you provide directly to us and information collected automatically:

• Account Information: Name, email address, company information (for FreightTender users)
• Usage Data: IP addresses, browser type, pages visited, time spent on pages
• Communication Data: Email communications, support requests
• Platform Data: For FreightTender users, tender and offer information

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Provide and improve our services
• Send newsletters and updates (with your consent)
• Respond to your inquiries and support requests
• Analyze usage patterns to improve user experience
• Ensure platform security and prevent fraud
• Comply with legal obligations

4. Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal information. We may share data only with:

• Service Providers: Trusted third parties who assist in operating our services (hosting, email delivery)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights
• Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your data:

• Encryption of data in transit (HTTPS/TLS)
• Secure password storage
• Access controls and authentication
• Regular security assessments

6. Your Rights (GDPR / CCPA)

If you are in the European Economic Area (GDPR) or California (CCPA), you have the right to:

• Access your personal data and receive a copy
• Rectification — correct inaccurate or incomplete data
• Erasure — request deletion of your data (subject to legal retention)
• Restriction — limit processing in certain circumstances
• Portability — receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format
• Object to processing based on legitimate interests or for direct marketing
• Withdraw consent at any time where processing is consent-based

CCPA: California residents may also opt out of the “sale” of personal information (we do not sell personal information). You may not be discriminated against for exercising your rights.

To exercise these rights, contact us at support@bench.energy. We will respond within 30 days. You may also lodge a complaint with your supervisory authority (GDPR).

7. Cookies

We use essential cookies for website functionality and authentication. We do not use tracking cookies for advertising purposes. You can control cookies through your browser settings.

8. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

9. Children's Privacy

Our services are not intended for individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes by posting the new policy on this page and updating the "Last updated" date.

11. Contact Us

For questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact: