Privacy Policy
How we collect, use, and protect your personal information
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1st Franklin Financial Corporation ("1st Franklin Financial," "we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website, apply for a loan, or use our services.
By using our website or services, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with our policies and practices, please do not use our website or services.
🔒 Your Privacy Matters: We have been trusted by families since 1941. Protecting your personal information is a cornerstone of that trust.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Personal Information You Provide
When you apply for a loan or interact with us, we may collect:
- Identity Information: Name, date of birth, Social Security Number, driver's license number
- Contact Information: Address, email address, phone number
- Financial Information: Income, employment information, bank account details, existing debts
- Credit Information: Credit history and credit scores (obtained with your authorization)
2.2 Information Collected Automatically
When you visit our website, we automatically collect:
- IP address and device information
- Browser type and operating system
- Pages visited and time spent on our site
- Referring website addresses
- Cookies and similar tracking technologies
2.3 Information from Third Parties
We may receive information from:
- Credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
- Identity verification services
- Marketing partners (with your consent)
3. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Process and evaluate your loan application
- Verify your identity and prevent fraud
- Service and manage your loan account
- Communicate with you about your account or our services
- Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
- Improve our website and customer experience
- Send marketing communications (with your consent)
4. Information Sharing
We do not sell your personal information. We may share your information with:
4.1 Service Providers
Third parties who help us operate our business, such as payment processors, credit bureaus, and IT service providers.
4.2 Legal Requirements
When required by law, court order, or government request, or to protect our rights and safety.
4.3 Business Transfers
In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred as a business asset.
4.4 With Your Consent
We may share information for other purposes with your explicit consent.
5. Data Security
We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your personal information:
- Encryption: SSL/TLS encryption for data in transit
- Access Controls: Strict access controls and authentication
- Monitoring: Regular security monitoring and audits
- Employee Training: Regular privacy and security training for staff
- Physical Security: Secure facilities for data storage
🛡️ Security Commitment: While no system is 100% secure, we are committed to protecting your information using the best available practices and technologies.
6. Your Rights and Choices
You have the following rights regarding your personal information:
- Access: Request a copy of the personal information we hold about you
- Correction: Request correction of inaccurate information
- Deletion: Request deletion of your information (subject to legal retention requirements)
- Opt-Out: Opt out of marketing communications at any time
- Do Not Sell: We do not sell personal information, but you may submit a request to confirm this
To exercise these rights, contact us at the information provided below.
6.1 California Residents (CCPA)
California residents have additional rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), including the right to know what personal information is collected and how it's used, and the right to non-discrimination for exercising privacy rights.
7. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to:
- Remember your preferences and settings
- Understand how you use our website
- Improve our website functionality
- Deliver relevant advertising
You can control cookies through your browser settings. Note that disabling cookies may affect website functionality.
7.1 Types of Cookies We Use
- Essential Cookies: Required for basic website functionality
- Analytics Cookies: Help us understand website usage
- Marketing Cookies: Used to deliver relevant advertisements
8. Children's Privacy
Our services are not intended for individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we learn we have collected information from a child under 18, we will delete it promptly.
9. Policy Updates
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you of material changes by:
- Posting the updated policy on our website
- Updating the "Last Updated" date at the top
- Sending email notification for significant changes (if you're a customer)
10. Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:
1st Franklin Financial Corporation
Privacy Officer
📍 135 E. Tugalo St., Toccoa, GA 30577
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM EST
NMLS #141654 | Licensed in AL, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, SC, TN, TX, VA