ETchat – Terms of Use

ETchat is a free end-to-end encrypted messaging and calling app that offers text messaging, voice calls, video calls, group chats, and file sharing, among other communication services. By installing, accessing, and using the ETchat app and its features, including any updates, additions, and modifications, you agree to the terms and conditions stated in this document.

Responsibility for Account and Activities

You are solely responsible for your activities on ETchat, and the use of your account is your own responsibility. This includes the protection of your confidential information, including any temporary OTP provided. You also acknowledge that any consequences resulting from illicit or criminal activities, as well as violations of eligibility terms, are your sole responsibility.

Registration and Account Creation

To register with ETchat, you must provide accurate and authentic information about yourself, including the required mobile phone number. This information will be used for registration purposes only. By providing your mobile number, you consent to receive verification messages (SMS) from us or any third-party network/service provider involved in the registration process.

Contact List Access

By providing your mobile number, you also agree to grant us access to your contact list. This allows us to verify and authenticate the details of our users and inform you when a member of your contact list joins ETchat. You further confirm that you are of legal age to provide us access to this information.

Age Requirements

To use ETchat, you must be at least 16 years old or meet the age requirements for providing consent to personal information processing without parental approval based on your geographical location. If you are below the permissible age and still wish to use our services, your parents or guardian must agree to our Terms of Use on your behalf.

Data and Information Sharing

ETchat requires certain information from you to provide its services. By sharing this information, you confirm your consent and agree to receive messages and phone calls from us or third parties assisting us in delivering our services.

User Privacy

Protecting your privacy is important to us. The information you provide is used to deliver our services. By using ETchat, you agree to the transmission of your information through various channels, including our facilities, service providers, and partners. You acknowledge that the rules and regulations regarding information usage in the country where you reside may differ from the country where our services are provided. For further details on our information practices, including usage, please refer to the ETchat Privacy Policy.

Services Provided by ETchat

Device and OS Information

By using ETchat, you consent to the automatic download and installation of the app and related updates aimed at enhancing your in-app experience.

Service Charges

You are responsible for all network plans, carrier charges, and other associated fees. Additional taxes are also your responsibility. ETchat may charge you for using our services, including applicable taxes. We reserve the right to refuse, reject, or cancel certain app-related requests. Please note that ETchat is not liable for any refunds unless required by law.

DISCLAIMER: ETchat does NOT replace your mobile and landline phone services or SMS services. There are distinct differences between these services and ETchat. ETchat does NOT provide direct access to emergency services, including police, hospitals, fire departments, or other emergency providers. In case of an emergency, ensure that you can contact emergency service providers using mobile or landline services or other available means.

Prohibited Activities and Violations

 ETchat usage must adhere to the specified guidelines, terms, and policies. Violating this agreement, effective upon app installation, may result in the suspension or termination of your account. Creating another account without prior permission from ETchat is not allowed in such cases.

Lawful Usage Policy

ETchat may only be used for legal purposes. Users are prohibited from engaging in any activity prohibited by local, national, or international laws. This includes but is not limited to:

  • Transmitting or sharing any content that is unlawful, harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, defamatory, vulgar, obscene, or invasive of another person’s privacy.
  • Engaging in any form of fraudulent activity, including identity theft or impersonation.
  • Distributing or transmitting any viruses, malware, or other malicious code that may harm the app or its users.
  • Interfering with the normal operation of ETchat or its servers, networks, or infrastructure.
  • Collecting or harvesting personal information from other users without their consent.
  • Engaging in any activity that violates intellectual property rights, including copyright, trademarks, or patents.
  • Promoting or facilitating illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, terrorism, or child exploitation.
  • Engaging in any form of spamming, including sending unsolicited messages or advertisements.
  • Using ETchat for any commercial purposes without prior written permission from ETchat.
  • Violating the privacy or confidentiality of other users’ information.

Consequences of Violations

ETchat reserves the right to take appropriate action against any user found to be in violation of these terms, including but not limited to:

  • Temporary or permanent suspension of the user’s account.
  • Termination of the user’s access to ETchat services.
  • Reporting the user to legal authorities if their activities are deemed illegal.
  • Removing or blocking any content that violates these terms.
  • Pursuing legal action or seeking damages for any harm caused by the user’s actions.

Updates to the Terms of Use

ETchat may update or modify these Terms of Use at any time without prior notice. It is your responsibility to review these terms periodically to stay informed of any changes. By continuing to use ETchat after any modifications, you accept and agree to the updated Terms of Use.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms of Use shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which ETchat operates. Any disputes arising from these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts in that jurisdiction.

Severability

If any provision of these Terms of Use is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue to be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Contact Information

 If you have any questions or concerns regarding these Terms of Use or ETchat’s services, you can contact us at: info@etchat.et

By using ETchat, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms of Use.