Acceptable Use Policy for Ringtree

Last Updated: 7/1/2024

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose: This Acceptable Use Policy ("AUP") outlines the rules and guidelines for using the Ringtree LLC services ("Ringtree", "we", "us", or "our"). This policy is designed to protect our users, partners, and Ringtree from illegal, irresponsible, or disruptive activities.

1.2 Scope: This AUP applies to all users of Ringtree services, including but not limited to our website, mobile applications, and telephony services (collectively, the "Services").

1.3 Compliance: By using our Services, you agree to comply with this AUP. Violation of this policy may result in suspension or termination of your access to the Services.

2. Prohibited Activities

The following activities are strictly prohibited when using Ringtree Services:

2.1 Illegal Activities:
a) Engaging in any activity that violates local, state, federal, or international laws and regulations.
b) Using the Services to plan, promote, or carry out any illegal activities.

2.2 Abusive Behavior:
a) Harassing, threatening, or intimidating other users or third parties.
b) Engaging in hate speech, discrimination, or promoting violence against individuals or groups.
c) Impersonating another person or entity without their consent.

2.3 Intellectual Property Infringement:
a) Violating copyrights, trademarks, patents, or other intellectual property rights.
b) Distributing or promoting pirated software or other content.

2.4 Spam and Unsolicited Communications:
a) Sending unsolicited bulk messages (spam) via any medium, including voice calls, SMS, or email.
b) Harvesting contact information for the purpose of sending unsolicited communications.

2.5 Network Abuse:
a) Attempting to gain unauthorized access to any network, system, or account.
b) Interfering with or disrupting the Services or servers connected to the Services.
c) Introducing malware, viruses, or other malicious code into the Services or any connected systems.

2.6 Fraudulent Activities:
a) Engaging in phishing, identity theft, or any other fraudulent practices.
b) Misrepresenting your identity or affiliation with any person or entity.

2.7 Content Restrictions:
a) Transmitting, storing, or publishing any content that is unlawful, harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, defamatory, vulgar, obscene, or otherwise objectionable.
b) Distributing sexually explicit or pornographic material.

2.8 Unauthorized Reselling: Reselling or redistributing Ringtree Services without explicit written permission from Ringtree LLC.

2.9 HIPAA and Protected Health Information (PHI):
a) Using the Services to transmit, store, or process any Protected Health Information (PHI) as defined under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
b) Attempting to use Ringtree Services for any HIPAA-regulated activities.

3. System and Network Security

3.1 Security Violations: Users must not attempt to circumvent or test the security mechanisms of any host, network, or account without explicit permission from Ringtree LLC.

3.2 Unauthorized Access: Accessing or attempting to access any user account or system for which you do not have explicit permission is strictly prohibited.

3.3 Network Monitoring: Users must not use any device, software, or routine to interfere with the proper functioning of the Services or any transaction conducted through the Services.

4. Email and Communication Services

4.1 Spam Prevention: Users must not use Ringtree Services to send unsolicited bulk messages or engage in any form of spamming.

4.2 Mailing Lists: If operating mailing lists, users must ensure that all recipients have confirmed their subscription and that unsubscribe requests are promptly honored.

4.3 Fraudulent Activities: Using Ringtree Services for phishing, fraud, or any deceptive practices is strictly prohibited.

4.4 Auto-Dialing and Robocalling: Using the Services for auto-dialing, robocalling, or any automated calling system without explicit written permission from Ringtree LLC.

4.5 Call Flooding: Engaging in any activity that may result in excessive calls to a single number or set of numbers in a short period.

4.6 Number Harvesting: Using the Services to collect, harvest, or mine phone numbers for any purpose without the explicit consent of the number owners.

4.7 Caller ID Manipulation: Altering or manipulating caller ID information with the intent to mislead, defraud, or impersonate.

4.8 Toll Fraud: Using the Services to make unauthorized toll calls or to exploit any potential vulnerabilities in the telephony system.

4.9 Regulatory Violations: Using the Services in any way that violates telecommunications regulations, including but not limited to TCPA, TSR, and relevant FCC rules.

4.10 Reselling Services: Reselling or redistributing Ringtree Services without explicit written authorization.

4.11 Excessive Conference Calling: Using the Services for excessive conference calling beyond reasonable business use.

4.12 Fax Broadcasting: Using the Services for unsolicited fax broadcasting or any form of "junk fax" distribution.

4.13 Hacking Attempts: Attempting to hack, breach, or otherwise gain unauthorized access to Ringtree LLC's systems or other users' accounts.

5. Content and Intellectual Property

5.1 User-Generated Content: Users are solely responsible for any content they create, transmit, or display while using the Services.

5.2 Copyright Compliance: Users must respect copyright laws and not use Ringtree Services to infringe on the intellectual property rights of others.

5.3 DMCA Compliance: Ringtree LLC adheres to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). For more information on our copyright policies, please refer to our DMCA Policy.

6. Privacy and Personal Information

6.1 Data Collection: Users must not use Ringtree Services to collect personal information from others without their explicit consent.

6.2 Privacy Violations: Violating the privacy rights of any person or entity is prohibited.

7. Reporting Violations

7.1 Reporting Process: If you become aware of any violation of this AUP, please report it immediately to security@ringtree.io.

7.2 Investigation: Ringtree LLC reserves the right to investigate any reported violation and to take appropriate action.

8. Enforcement

8.1 Consequences: Violation of this AUP may result in:
a) Warning to the offending user
b) Temporary suspension of services
c) Permanent termination of services
d) Legal action, if applicable

8.2 Discretion: Ringtree LLC reserves the right to determine, in its sole discretion, what constitutes a violation of this AUP.

9. Modifications to Policy

9.1 Updates: Ringtree LLC may modify this AUP at any time without individual notice to users. Changes will be posted on our website, and the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy will be revised.

9.2 Continued Use: Your continued use of Ringtree Services after any changes to this AUP constitutes your acceptance of the modified policy.

10. User Compliance Responsibilities

10.1 Do-Not-Call Compliance: Users are solely responsible for maintaining compliance with all national and state-specific Do-Not-Call regulations. This includes, but is not limited to:
a) Maintaining up-to-date Do-Not-Call lists
b) Screening calls against these lists
c) Honoring Do-Not-Call requests
d) Maintaining records of consent where applicable

10.2 Telemarketing Regulations: Users engaged in telemarketing activities must comply with all applicable federal and state telemarketing laws and regulations.

10.3 Consent Requirements: Users are responsible for obtaining and maintaining all necessary consents for their calling and messaging activities, especially for automated calls, text messages, and marketing communications.

10.4 Record Keeping: Users must maintain their own records to demonstrate compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

10.5 Indemnification: Users agree to indemnify and hold Ringtree LLC harmless from any claims, damages, or legal actions arising from their failure to maintain proper compliance with telecommunications laws and regulations, including Do-Not-Call violations.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this Acceptable Use Policy, please contact us at:

Ringtree LLC
info@ringtree.io

By using Ringtree Services you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to comply with this Acceptable Use Policy.