This article is intended to inform the importance of a Privacy Policy for both SDK Users & their property managers.
As an SDK user, you've come to Autohost to collect the digital guest fingerprint & biometric information to mitigate risk & provide certainty on who your property managers are hosting.
However, with the collection of such sensitive data comes the responsibility to protect it. Here’s why having a robust privacy policy is not only essential, but required of SDK Users & their Property Managers:
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Legal Compliance: Many jurisdictions have strict regulations regarding the collection and use of biometric data. A clear privacy policy helps property managers comply with laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), avoiding potential legal repercussions.
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Building Trust: Guests are more likely to book with property managers who demonstrate transparency about how their data is collected, used, and protected. A well-defined privacy policy fosters trust and confidence, encouraging more guests to engage with your property.
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Data Protection: Biometric information is highly sensitive and can be misused if not properly safeguarded. A privacy policy outlines the measures taken to protect this data, such as encryption and secure storage, ensuring that guests feel safe sharing their information.
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Clear Communication: A privacy policy provides clarity on what data is collected, why it’s collected, and how long it will be retained. This transparency helps manage guest expectations and reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
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Risk Mitigation: By establishing guidelines for data handling and breach response, a privacy policy can help property managers mitigate risks associated with data breaches, ensuring that they are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively.
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Reputation Management: In an era where data breaches can lead to significant reputational damage, having a strong privacy policy can protect a property manager's brand image by demonstrating a commitment to data privacy and security.
In conclusion, a comprehensive privacy policy is not just a legal requirement; it’s a vital tool for property managers to protect their guests, build trust, and ensure compliance while leveraging biometric information for enhanced security.
AutoHost along with the SDK user & their property manager(s) takes joint responsibility for the protection and handling of guest information, including biometric data, for three primary reasons:
- AutoHost does not own the information they are processing, the Property Manager owns the data. The data is collected and analyzed by AutoHost for fraud / risk prevention purposes on behalf of the Property Manager.
- AutoHost, the SDK User & the Property Manager have mutual access to this information, therefore have joint responsibility in its protection and handling.
- AutoHost serves clients globally, we are constantly monitoring changing privacy acts, however property managers are expected to stay informed and comply with all local state, national and foreign laws as well.
We strongly encourage SDK Users & their property managers to follow these important measures to protect your company as it pertains to the collection and handling of guest information, biometrics included:
- Stay informed of local, state, national and foreign laws as it pertains to the privacy, collection and retention of personal data and biometrics
- Create or update your Privacy Policy to adhere to the most up-to-date restrictive privacy acts
- Add the Privacy Policy to the company page for public view, as well all listings for guest view before booking, and to any rental contracts
- Create a data retention schedule and share with AutoHost
- Find guidance from a legal team or lawyers
- Reach out to your Customer Success Manager with AutoHost for support