TnCs

Terms and Conditions, often abbreviated as TnCs, are the legal agreement that governs the use of a product, service, website, or software between the provider and the user. They outline the rights and obligations of both parties, define acceptable use, and set rules for access, payments, and account management.

A typical TnC covers definitions, license or access rights granted, user responsibilities, prohibited activities, payment terms and refunds, intellectual property, warranties and disclaimers, limitations of liability, indemnification, termination, and dispute resolution, including governing law. It may also link to a privacy policy, data handling practices, and a cookies policy.

Acceptance usually occurs when the user agrees to the terms or continues to use the service after being presented with them; in some cases, simply making a purchase or creating an account constitutes consent. Providers may reserve the right to modify the terms, with changes binding after notice or a set period; continued use generally signals acceptance of updated terms.

Enforceability varies by jurisdiction. TnCs must be clear, fair, and not contravene consumer protection or data privacy laws. Some terms, such as overly broad liability waivers or restrictions on mandatory rights, may be limited or unenforceable in certain regions. In consumer contexts, regulations may require highlighted notices or simplified language.

For users, reading TnCs helps understand rights and obligations; for providers, clear, accessible drafting reduces disputes. TnCs are distinct from a privacy policy, which governs data collection and use; together they form the legal framework for using a service.