Privacy Policy
Effective Date: 02/10/2025
The Society of Global Practicing Accountants (SOPA) is committed to protecting your personal data and respecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard information when you engage with our website, membership services, and learning programs. By using SOPA’s website or services, you acknowledge and agree to the practices described in this policy.
1. Information We Collect
We may collect:
- Identity Data: Name, date of birth, nationality.
- Contact Data: Email, phone, address.
- Professional Data: Qualifications, work history, and membership details.
- Financial Data: Payment details (processed securely via third-party providers).
- Learning Data: Enrolments, attendance, assessments, CPD records.
- Technical Data: IP addresses, browser type, device details, cookies.
We collect data directly from you, from membership applications, or when you use our online services.
2. How We Use Data
We process personal data to:
- Provide membership services and training.
- Issue certifications, diplomas, and CPD records.
- Process payments and renewals.
- Communicate program updates, insights, and events.
- Comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
We may also use anonymised data for research, reporting, and service improvement.
3. Legal Basis for Processing
- Contract – to deliver services you request.
- Legal obligation – to comply with UK and global regulations.
- Legitimate interests – to manage and improve our services.
- Consent – for marketing communications (you can withdraw anytime).
4. Sharing & Disclosure
We do not sell or rent personal data. Information may be shared with:
- Service providers (IT, hosting, payment, and learning platforms).
- Accreditation/regulatory bodies (for verification and compliance).
- Training partners (only necessary details to deliver learning).
- Legal/government authorities where required by law.
All third parties are contractually required to maintain confidentiality and data protection.
9. Cookies
Our website uses cookies for functionality, analytics, and user experience. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, but some features may not work properly.
10. Liability Disclaimer
While SOPA takes all reasonable steps to protect your data, we are not responsible for:
- Losses caused by third-party service providers or payment processors.
- Data disclosed due to legal/regulatory obligations.
- Unauthorised access caused by factors outside our control (e.g., cyberattacks, user error, insecure networks).
Use of SOPA’s website and services is at your own risk.
11. Changes to Policy
SOPA may update this Privacy Policy at any time. Updates will be posted on our website with a new “Effective Date.” Continued use of our services after updates means you accept the revised policy.
12. Contact Us
SOPA – Society of Global Practicing AccountantsLondon, United Kingdom
privacy@sopaglobal.com
www.sopaglobal.com • www.sopaglobal.co.uk
