Acceptable Use Policy

This Acceptable Use Policy outlines the rules and standards of behaviour for all users of Vernac. By using our platform, you agree to follow these guidelines.

1. Purpose

Vernac is a platform designed to connect travellers with local guides for authentic travel advice and cultural insights. This policy ensures a safe, respectful, and positive experience for everyone.

2. General Conduct Standards

All users must:

• Treat others with respect and courtesy
• Communicate honestly and in good faith
• Respect cultural differences and perspectives
• Use the platform for its intended purpose
• Comply with all applicable laws and regulations

3. Prohibited Content

You may not post, share, or transmit content that:

3.1 Harmful Content

• Threatens, harasses, or bullies other users
• Contains hate speech based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or nationality
• Promotes violence or harm to any individual or group
• Contains graphic violence or disturbing imagery

3.2 Illegal Content

• Violates any applicable law or regulation
• Promotes illegal activities
• Infringes on intellectual property rights
• Contains child exploitation material (immediately reported to authorities)

3.3 Deceptive Content

• False or misleading information presented as fact
• Impersonation of others
• Fake reviews or testimonials
• Scams or phishing attempts
• Misleading profile information

3.4 Inappropriate Content

• Sexually explicit material
• Spam or unsolicited advertising
• Content unrelated to travel or local knowledge
• Excessive self-promotion

4. Prohibited Behaviours

4.1 Payment and Fee Avoidance

• Sharing contact information to transact off-platform
• Requesting payment outside of Vernac
• Creating multiple accounts to circumvent fees
• Using fake or stolen payment methods

4.2 Manipulation and Abuse

• Creating fake accounts or profiles
• Artificially inflating ratings or reviews
• Coordinating with others to manipulate the platform
• Exploiting bugs or vulnerabilities
• Scraping or collecting user data

4.3 Harassment

• Repeated unwanted contact after being asked to stop
• Stalking or tracking other users
• Sharing private information without consent
• Sexual harassment of any kind
• Discriminatory treatment or comments

5. Messaging Guidelines

When communicating through Vernac:

5.1 Appropriate Messaging

• Stay on topic (travel advice, local knowledge, booking details)
• Be clear and specific about your needs or offerings
• Respond to messages in a timely manner
• Use professional and respectful language

5.2 Inappropriate Messaging

• Romantic or sexual advances
• Requests for personal contact information (phone, email, social media)
• Aggressive or threatening language
• Spam or repetitive messages
• Off-topic discussions unrelated to travel

6. Local-Specific Guidelines

If you are registered as a Local, you must also:

• Only claim expertise in areas you genuinely know
• Provide honest and accurate information
• Disclose any potential conflicts of interest (e.g., if recommending a business you own)
• Clearly state limitations of your knowledge
• Never provide advice that could endanger travellers
• Respond to inquiries within 48 hours or set unavailable status
• Honour all confirmed bookings
• Maintain up-to-date availability

7. Traveller-Specific Guidelines

If you are using Vernac as a Traveller:

• Provide accurate booking information
• Respect the Local's time and expertise
• Give honest and fair reviews
• Cancel bookings with appropriate notice
• Do not pressure Locals for free or discounted services
• Understand that advice is informational, not a guarantee

8. Safety Guidelines

Your safety is important to us:

• Never share sensitive personal information (passport numbers, financial details)
• Meet in public places if arranging in-person meetups
• Trust your instincts - report suspicious behaviour
• Verify information from multiple sources before making travel decisions
• Keep records of important communications

9. Reporting Violations

If you encounter behaviour that violates this policy:

1. Use the "Report" button on the user's profile or message
2. Provide specific details about the violation
3. Include screenshots or evidence if available
4. Do not engage further with the user

You can also email reports to support@vernac.com.

10. Enforcement

Violations of this policy may result in:

10.1 Appeals

If you believe an enforcement action was made in error:

1. Email support@vernac.com within 14 days of the action
2. Include your account details and reason for appeal
3. Provide any evidence supporting your case
4. We will respond within 7 business days

11. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Acceptable Use Policy from time to time. Material changes will be communicated via email and/or prominent notice on the platform. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

12. Contact

Questions about this policy:

• Email: support@vernac.com

13. Related Policies

• Terms of Service
• Community Guidelines
• Privacy Policy