Explore. Discover. Treasure.

Privacy policy

Effective Date: August 2026
Company: High Branching Pty Ltd (Reg number: 4670118332, trading as TheTreeApp)

High Branching Pty Ltd (“we,” “us,” or “our”) respects your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you:

  • Visit our website: www.thetreeapp.co.za
  • Use our mobile application (iOS or Android)
  • Participate in TreeListers or other community features

By using the website or app, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.

Our Privacy Policy complies with the laws of the Republic of South Africa (POPIA). If any provision is unenforceable, it will be severed, and the remaining provisions remain in full effect.

1.1 Personal information provided by you

We may collect:

  • Account credentials: username, password, password hints, and similar security info
  • Contact details: name, email address
  • Subscription or registration info: app store subscriptions, newsletters
  • User submissions: feedback, comments, search queries, questions
  • Preferences & interests: communication preferences, preferred language

Failure to provide required information may limit access to features or registration.

1.2 Usage data

We collect data automatically, including:

  • Device and connection info: IP address, device type, OS, browser type/version, unique device identifiers
  • App usage data: features used, settings selected, clickstream data, timestamps, referring/exit pages
  • Location data: region, city, or town for location-based content (with consent)

This data is collected via our servers, cookies, and similar technologies.

1.3 Cookies

Cookies are small text files stored on your device. We use cookies to:

  • Store preferences and settings
  • Help with sign-in
  • Provide analytics and targeted content

You can control or disable cookies in your browser. Some features may not work if cookies are blocked.

1.4 Children

The app and website are not directed at children under 18. Users under 18 must have parental or guardian consent. We do not knowingly collect personal info from children under 18.

We use your data to:

  • Manage your account and app access
  • Provide technical, product, and support services
  • Improve app and website functionality and user experience
  • Personalise app content and communications
  • Respond to inquiries and requests
  • Notify you about updates, changes, or new services
  • Comply with legal obligations and enforce agreements

We may also use your data for:

  • Targeted marketing, promotional messages, and product announcements (with consent)
  • User testing, surveys, and research
  • Trend analysis and evaluation of marketing campaigns or business performance

We do not sell, trade, or lease personal information. Sharing occurs only:

  • As required by law
  • With your consent (withdrawable at any time)
  • Where necessary to operate or secure the website or app
  • With third-party service providers under confidentiality and security obligations

Aggregated, non-identifiable demographic info may be shared with trusted partners for analytics or research.

  • We retain personal data only as long as necessary to provide services or meet legal obligations.
  • Reasonable technical and organisational measures are used to prevent unauthorized access, loss, or destruction.
  • Measures include risk assessment, safeguards, and ongoing monitoring.

Important: Internet communications may be intercepted, and servers may be hacked. We cannot guarantee absolute security.

Data may be stored in your region or outside South Africa, including where our service providers maintain servers.

You may:

  • Access, review, and update your account information through the app or website
  • Correct or delete personal data
  • Request restriction of processing, object to processing, or request data portability

Requests can be submitted in writing via the website or app. Identity verification may be required.

We may update this policy. Changes will appear on this page with a revised date, and significant changes may be communicated to you directly.

Our website/app may link to third-party websites or services. We are not responsible for their content, privacy practices, or policies. Interactions on such sites are subject to their terms.

For privacy questions, complaints, or requests:

Email: ask@thetreeapp.co.za
Information Officer: High Branching Pty Ltd
Address:Reg number: 4670118332

Business address:
16 Notwani Rd
Emmerentia
2193, Johannesurg
Gauteng, South Africa

Complaints about POPIA compliance may be lodged with the Information Regulator:
JD House, 27 Stiemens Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2001
Email: POPIAComplaints@inforegulator.org.za