3 Cases where you should not use Template T&Cs and Privacy Policy for your website.

Many first-time business and startup owners approach me to assist with their website or application’s T&Cs and Privacy Policy.

If they are just starting up or if they have budget constraints, I sometimes advise them to go with an online template instead.

But this is not the case for every website.

There are certain cases where online templates just won’t be enough:

Let me share with you what they are.

1) Unique Business Operations

If your platform has unique processes, services, or products, you won’t find a suitable template that will cover everything.

Similarly, if it involves subscription models, tiered services, or unique user interactions, you need something more customized to your business.

For example:

If you are just running an e-commerce store, you may be able to get away with using some competitor’s website policy.

Not something I advise though, just to be clear!

Because I have seen such cases where even the competitor’s policy was not proper.

And it clearly looked like they had copied their terms from somewhere else.

So ultimately, once you have the funds, go for something custom for your website.

2) Industry Specific Regulations

If you are operating in certain industries, like healthcare or finance, the compliance standards are high.

There are often industry-specific regulations, which mandate certain disclosures and also put restrictions.

For example:

If you are running a stock analysis platform, you can’t implement advisory on buy/sell, unless you are registered.

So don't go out there copying someone else's terms.

3) Data Processing and Reliance

Today, many jurisdictions have privacy laws, in line with GDPR, and the privacy policy has become a mandate.

If it’s just simple data usage like email or phone number, you may use online templates to create the policy for your website.

But, if your business is heavily reliant on consumer data or collects any sensitive data, the compliance standards are again high.

Generic templates just won’t serve the purpose here.

That's it.

These are the 3 cases where I personally believe templates shouldn't be used.

I can't tell you how to run your business.

I can only guide you or advise you on the steps that should be taken.

But ultimately, the decision is in your hands!

Always measure the risks with every move you take.

P.S. Have you recently gotten your website developed?

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