Security Practices

Data Encryption

All data transmitted between your device and our servers is encrypted using industry-standard TLS/SSL protocols. This ensures that your queries and our responses cannot be intercepted by third parties.

Secure Storage

Your data is stored securely in:

• Neon PostgreSQL Database: Encrypted at rest, located in AWS us-east-1 (United States)
• Netlify Hosting: Industry-standard security practices and compliance

Access Controls

We implement strict access controls to ensure only authorized personnel can access user data. All access is logged and monitored.

Regular Security Updates

We regularly update our systems and dependencies to address security vulnerabilities and maintain the highest security standards.

Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using Ask Gaston, you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our Service.

2. Description of Service

Ask Gaston is an AI-powered chatbot that provides local information about Gastonia and Gaston County, North Carolina. The Service is provided "as is" for informational purposes only.

3. Use of Service

You agree to use the Service only for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms. You agree not to:

• Use the Service for any illegal or unauthorized purpose
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any part of the Service
• Interfere with or disrupt the Service or servers connected to the Service
• Use automated systems to access the Service without permission
• Transmit any malicious code or harmful content

4. AI-Generated Content

Responses generated by Ask Gaston are created using artificial intelligence and may contain errors or inaccuracies. While we strive to provide accurate information:

• Information is provided for general informational purposes only
• We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of information
• You should verify important information through official sources
• We are not responsible for decisions made based on information provided by the Service

5. Medical, Legal, and Emergency Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: Ask Gaston does not provide medical, legal, or emergency advice. For medical concerns, consult a healthcare professional. For legal matters, consult a qualified attorney. For emergencies, call 911 immediately.

The Service is designed to refuse medical and legal queries and will direct users to appropriate professionals. We are not liable for any harm resulting from reliance on information provided by the Service in medical, legal, or emergency situations.

6. Third-Party Services

Ask Gaston uses third-party services including OpenAI for AI processing. Your use of these services is subject to their respective terms of service and privacy policies. We are not responsible for the practices of third-party service providers.

7. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Grayson Industries, LLC and its operators shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses resulting from your use of the Service.

8. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Grayson Industries, LLC, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of your use of the Service or violation of these Terms.

9. Service Availability

We strive to maintain Service availability but do not guarantee uninterrupted access. The Service may be unavailable due to maintenance, technical issues, or circumstances beyond our control. We reserve the right to modify or discontinue the Service at any time.

10. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. We will notify users of material changes by updating the "Last Updated" date. Your continued use of the Service after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

11. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of North Carolina, United States, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

12. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms or the Service, please contact: