Security

1. How we keep your data safe

Your money and your personal information deserve real protection. This page explains, in plain language, how we keep your data safe and the lines we will never cross.

For the full legal detail on how we collect, use, and share information, see our Privacy Policy.

2. Read-only bank connections

Connecting a bank account or credit card is optional, and it only powers the budgeting tools. When you connect, it is through our partner Plaid, and the connection is read-only: we can see your balances and transactions to help you budget, but we can never move your money.

Plaid handles the login directly. We never receive or store your banking username or password, only a token that lets us read the data you approved.

3. Encryption

Your personal information is encrypted both in transit and at rest, using industry-standard protection. It stays protected while it moves between your device and our systems, and while it sits in storage.

4. Where your data is stored

Your data is primarily stored on Canadian servers, using AWS in Montreal (ca-central-1). We operate under Canadian privacy law, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and Alberta's Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA).

Some of our service providers process information in the United States under contractual safeguards. Our Privacy Policy explains this in more detail.

5. Internal access controls

Inside hi finance, access to your information follows least-privilege rules, so only the people who need it can reach it. Employee access is protected with multi-factor authentication, and our team works under confidentiality agreements.

6. What we will never do

Some limits are worth stating plainly. We will never:

• Move your money or start a transaction. The Plaid connection is read-only.
• Store your banking username or password.
• Submit a grant application for you. You always review and hit submit yourself.
• Charge you before you are funded. It is $0 upfront, and 15% only on grants we help you win.
• Sell your personal information, or share it with schools, student aid offices, or grant programs.

7. Questions or concerns

Have a security question, or want to report a concern? Reach us at info@hifinance.ca. For how we handle your information end to end, see our Privacy Policy.