SoleSpark Community Guidelines

1. Our Mission & Values

SoleSpark is an inclusive platform built for people who share a genuine passion for footwear and foot fashion. We exist to enable effortless, meaningful connections between enthusiasts, collectors, and sellers in a space that prioritizes safety, authenticity, and respect.

These Community Guidelines govern all activity on SoleSpark, including profiles, messaging, marketplace listings, community participation, and any content shared within the platform. By creating an account or using SoleSpark in any capacity, you agree to follow these guidelines in full.

1.1 Core Principles

• Respect: Treat every member with dignity. We are a diverse community spanning different backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and abilities. Harassment, discrimination, and bullying have no place here.
• Authenticity: Be yourself. Use real photos, provide honest descriptions of items you sell, and represent yourself truthfully in all interactions.
• Safety: We go above and beyond industry standards to protect our members. Our hybrid AI and human moderation system monitors content across the platform, including private messages when triggered by user reports.
• Privacy: We believe your personal information is yours. Our double-blind shipping system, metadata stripping, and identity protections are designed so that you can connect with confidence.
• Body Positivity: SoleSpark celebrates all bodies and all feet. Shaming, mocking, or demeaning any member’s appearance is grounds for immediate suspension.
• Compliance: We operate within all applicable laws, App Store policies, and payment processor requirements. These guidelines exist not only to protect you but to ensure SoleSpark remains available to everyone.

⚠️ Important Notice: SoleSpark is positioned as a social and commerce platform—not a dating service. While meaningful personal connections are a natural outcome of our community, all features, language, and conduct must reflect our identity as a foot fashion marketplace and enthusiast community. This distinction is essential for compliance with our payment processors, App Store policies, and legal requirements.

2. Who Can Use SoleSpark

2.1 Age Requirement

You must be at least 18 years of age to create a SoleSpark account. During onboarding, you will be required to confirm your date of birth. SoleSpark reserves the right to request additional age verification at any time. Accounts found to belong to users under 18 will be immediately and permanently terminated.

2.2 Account Requirements

• One account per person. Duplicate or alternate accounts are prohibited.
• You must provide a valid email address or phone number for account recovery and communication purposes.
• You must complete identity verification (gesture-based photo verification) before your profile becomes visible to other members.
• You must agree to these Community Guidelines and the SoleSpark Terms of Service at registration via a click-wrap checkbox.

2.3 Geographic Availability

SoleSpark is available internationally. Users in all regions are subject to these guidelines. In jurisdictions where additional data protection laws apply (such as the GDPR in the European Union or CCPA in California), SoleSpark will comply with all applicable local regulations. See Section 7 for details on data handling.

3. Profile & Identity Standards

3.1 Identity Verification (Required)

Every SoleSpark member must complete our identity verification process before their profile is activated. This process is designed to reduce fake profiles, catfishing, scam accounts, and to build trust across both the social and commerce sides of the platform.

How it works: During onboarding, you will be asked to take two photos performing specific random gestures (for example: peace sign, touch your nose, thumbs up). Our AI system will confirm that your face is clearly visible, that the gestures match, and that the photos are genuine. All subsequent profile photos must match your verification photos.

For Sellers: Sellers undergo an additional verification step before they can list items. This may include more extensive identity confirmation. Verified sellers receive a visible trust badge on their profile.

Accessibility: If you have difficulty making gestures due to a physical disability, facial differences, or other accessibility needs, please use the “I Need Help” option during verification. Our support team will work with you on alternative verification methods.

3.2 Display Name

• Your display name must not impersonate another person, brand, or public figure.
• Names containing slurs, hate speech, sexual solicitation, or offensive language are prohibited.
• Do not include personal contact information (phone numbers, email addresses, social media handles) in your display name.

3.3 Bio & Profile Information

Your bio is an opportunity to express your personality and share your interests in footwear, style, and collecting. Keep it inviting and within our standards:

• Describe your interests in footwear, collecting, or style authentically.
• Do not include sexually explicit language, solicitation, or graphic descriptions of sexual acts.
• Do not include external links, competitor app usernames, or contact information intended to move conversations off-platform.
• Do not include promotional spam, cryptocurrency solicitations, or commercial advertising for non-SoleSpark services.

3.4 Profile Deactivation for Violations

If any profile element (name, bio, or photos) is found to violate these guidelines, your profile will be temporarily hidden until the issue is resolved. You will receive a notification with clear instructions on how to correct the violation and restore visibility.

4. Photo & Media Guidelines

Photos are central to the SoleSpark experience—both for personal profiles and marketplace listings. All photos uploaded to SoleSpark are processed through our AI moderation system in real time. Photos that violate these guidelines will be automatically blocked or flagged for human review.

4.1 Profile Photos

You may upload up to six profile photos (at least one is required). All profile photos must depict you and must match your identity verification photos.

4.2 Marketplace Product Photos

Each product listing supports up to three photos. The primary image must clearly display the product being sold. Product photos must meet the following standards:

• The product (footwear, socks, or related accessory) must be the dominant subject of the image, occupying approximately 80–90% of the frame.
• A small seller avatar or watermark is acceptable but must not dominate the image.
• Photos must accurately represent the item’s condition. Misrepresentation of condition, size, or authenticity constitutes fraud.
• No nudity, sexually suggestive staging, or body parts other than hands and feet in product photos.
• No copyrighted images, screenshots from other platforms, or stock photography.

4.3 Metadata Stripping

For your protection, SoleSpark automatically strips all metadata (including GPS location data, device information, and timestamps) from every photo uploaded to the platform. This is a core safety feature and cannot be disabled.

4.4 AI Moderation for Photos

Every photo uploaded to SoleSpark—whether for profiles, products, or messages—is processed by our AI content moderation system. Photos will be automatically blocked if they contain:

• Nudity or sexually explicit content
• A person who does not match the account’s verification photos (for profile pictures)
• Violence, weapons, or graphic content
• Hate symbols or extremist imagery
• Content depicting minors

Blocked photos will trigger a notification explaining the reason and providing guidance on uploading a compliant replacement. Users receive up to three photo appeals per month for false positives.

5. Content & Communication Standards

SoleSpark enables connection through community participation, direct messaging, and commerce interactions. All communication on the platform must adhere to the following standards.

5.1 Zero-Tolerance Policies

The following behaviors result in immediate, permanent account termination with no appeal:

• Sexual solicitation or offering/requesting sexual services in exchange for money, goods, or any form of compensation.
• Sharing, requesting, or distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) or any content involving minors in a sexual context. SoleSpark will report such content to NCMEC and relevant law enforcement.
• Threats of physical violence, terrorism, or incitement to harm any person or group.
• Doxxing—publishing another person’s private information (real name, address, workplace, phone number) without their consent.
• Blackmail, extortion, or coercion of any kind.
• Impersonating SoleSpark staff, moderators, or law enforcement.

5.2 Prohibited Content & Conduct

The following are prohibited across all areas of SoleSpark, including profiles, community posts, direct messages, product listings, and any other user-generated content:

• Sexually explicit or pornographic material of any kind, including text-based descriptions of sexual acts.
• Hate speech, slurs, or discriminatory language targeting any person or group based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin.
• Harassment, bullying, stalking, or repeated unwanted contact after a user has indicated disinterest or used the block feature.
• Spam, phishing, or scam attempts including unsolicited commercial messages, pyramid schemes, or fraudulent investment offers.
• Promoting or glorifying self-harm, eating disorders, substance abuse, or suicide.
• Impersonation of any other user, public figure, or entity.
• Circumventing blocks, bans, or moderation actions by creating new accounts.
• Sharing another user’s private messages, photos, or personal information outside the platform without their written consent.
• Encouraging or facilitating any illegal activity.

5.3 Messaging Etiquette

Direct messaging is a privilege, not a right. SoleSpark uses Stream Chat infrastructure with integrated moderation. Messages are subject to AI scanning for prohibited content. Key messaging rules include:

• Respect boundaries. If someone does not respond or asks you to stop messaging them, you must comply immediately.
• Do not send unsolicited explicit photos or sexual content in messages.
• Do not attempt to move conversations off-platform for the purpose of circumventing our moderation systems.
• Voice messages (when available) are subject to the same content policies as text messages.

Message Retention & Moderation Disclosure: SoleSpark retains message data, including messages that appear deleted to both parties, for the purpose of safety and moderation. In the case of a formal investigation into user conduct (such as a harassment or fraud complaint), SoleSpark reserves the right to examine user message history, including deleted messages. We highly value your privacy and security, and we exercise this right only when necessary to protect our community.

5.4 Community Posts & Discussions

Community spaces within SoleSpark are designed for enthusiasts to share their passion for footwear, discuss collecting, and support one another. Posts in community feeds must be relevant to the community’s topic and comply with all content standards described in this section. Moderators may remove off-topic posts without notice.

5.5 Banned Words & Automated Filtering

SoleSpark maintains a dynamic list of banned words and phrases. This list is enforced through a combination of exact-match filtering and regular expression pattern matching powered by AI. The banned words list covers slurs, explicit sexual terminology, and solicitation language. This list is reviewed and updated regularly and is not disclosed publicly to prevent circumvention.

6. Marketplace & Commerce Rules

The SoleSpark marketplace enables members to buy and sell footwear and related accessories through a person-centric discovery model. The marketplace is accessed through individual seller profiles, not through a traditional search-and-browse storefront. All commerce activity is subject to the following rules.

6.1 Platform Positioning

SoleSpark’s marketplace operates under a product-first commerce model. When browsing, the primary visual element is the product being sold. Seller avatars appear as small, secondary elements on product cards. Swiping actions correspond to commerce actions (Add to Wishlist, Pass) and never to social matching. The words “Match” or “You Matched” must never appear in the context of marketplace discovery.

6.2 What You Can Sell

• Footwear: shoes, sneakers, boots, heels, sandals, and similar items.
• Foot-related accessories: socks, shoe insoles, shoe care products, foot jewelry, and related items.
• All items must be real, physical goods. Digital goods, services, or gift cards cannot be sold through the marketplace.

6.3 What You Cannot Sell

• Counterfeit or replica goods misrepresented as authentic.
• Stolen merchandise.
• Items that are not footwear or foot-related accessories (e.g., clothing, electronics, cosmetics).
• Used items in an unhygienic or hazardous condition.
• Any item that is illegal to sell in the seller’s or buyer’s jurisdiction.
• Explicit or sexually suggestive materials of any kind, including photos, videos, or digital content sold alongside physical goods.
• Anything offered as part of a “compensated dating” arrangement or sexual service.

6.4 Pricing & Transactions

• All items are sold at a fixed, listed price. There is no bidding or auction functionality in the current version.
• Transactions are processed through SoleSpark’s integrated payment system. For digital goods and premium features, Apple In-App Purchase is used. For physical goods, a third-party payment processor handles the transaction.
• SoleSpark charges a 15% commission on all marketplace sales. Premium subscribers may be eligible for a reduced commission rate.
• Sellers may not request payment outside the SoleSpark platform. Off-platform payment attempts are a violation and may result in account termination.

6.5 Shipping & Privacy

SoleSpark uses a double-blind shipping system. Neither the buyer nor the seller sees the other party’s real name or physical address at any point during the transaction. SoleSpark generates shipping labels on behalf of both parties through our logistics partner. This is a core privacy feature of the platform and cannot be circumvented.

• Sellers must ship items within the timeframe specified at the time of listing.
• Items must be packaged securely and match the condition described in the listing.
• Failure to ship, shipping incorrect items, or deliberately misrepresenting product condition constitutes fraud and will result in enforcement action.

6.6 Seller Verification & Trust

To sell on SoleSpark, you must complete additional seller verification beyond the standard identity verification. Verified sellers receive a visible trust badge. Seller profiles display transaction history, ratings from buyers, and the number of completed sales. These trust signals are designed to create accountability and encourage honest commerce.

6.7 Item-in-Hand Verification

SoleSpark may require sellers to submit an item-in-hand verification photo for certain listings. This photo must show the physical item being sold along with a verification element (such as a handwritten date or a SoleSpark-generated verification code). This process is designed to combat fraud, verify item authenticity, and protect buyers.

6.8 Dispute Resolution

SoleSpark acts as an intermediary platform and does not take possession of goods or make representations about their quality. In the event of a dispute between a buyer and seller regarding item condition, shipping, or authenticity, SoleSpark will review the available evidence (listing photos, verification photos, shipping records, and user communications) and issue a determination. SoleSpark’s decision in disputes is final within the platform.

7. Privacy, Safety & Data Protection

Privacy is a foundational value at SoleSpark. We implement industry-leading protections to keep your data safe and your identity secure.

7.1 Data We Collect

SoleSpark collects only the data necessary to operate the platform, verify identities, moderate content, process transactions, and improve the user experience. This includes account information (email, phone, date of birth), verification photos, profile content, marketplace activity, messaging metadata, device information, and usage analytics. Our Privacy Policy provides exhaustive detail on data collection, use, storage, and deletion.

7.2 Identity Verification Data

SoleSpark uses a third-party identity verification provider to process gesture-based verification. We do not store raw verification images on our servers. Instead, we receive only a pass/fail verification result and basic confirmed data (verification status and a confidence score). This approach minimizes our data footprint and reduces the risk associated with storing sensitive documents.

7.3 Encryption & Security

• All data in transit is protected by TLS 1.3 encryption.
• All data at rest is encrypted using AES-256.
• API endpoints are secured against common attack vectors.
• Access to user data is restricted to authorized personnel on a need-to-know basis.
• SoleSpark maintains breach notification procedures and will notify affected users in accordance with applicable law in the event of a data incident.

7.4 Photo Metadata Stripping

As described in Section 4.3, all uploaded photos are automatically stripped of metadata. This prevents accidental disclosure of GPS location, device identifiers, and other embedded information.

7.5 Double-Blind Shipping

SoleSpark’s double-blind shipping system ensures that neither buyers nor sellers are exposed to the other party’s physical address or legal name during marketplace transactions. Shipping labels are generated by SoleSpark through our logistics partner.

7.6 Data Separation Between Services

Per legal counsel, SoleSpark treats the social and e-commerce components as functionally separate services from a data perspective. Sensitive data from the social side of the platform (such as matching preferences, community membership, or messaging history) is not used to inform e-commerce recommendations, advertising, or product suggestions. This separation protects user privacy and supports regulatory compliance.

7.7 International Compliance

SoleSpark complies with all applicable international data protection regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for users in the European Economic Area, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) for California residents, and other applicable local data protection laws. Users may request access to, correction of, or deletion of their personal data at any time by contacting support.

7.8 User Controls

• Blocking: Block any user at any time. Blocked users cannot see your profile, message you, or view your marketplace listings. Free accounts may block up to 5 users; Premium accounts may block up to 100.
• Incognito Mode (Premium): Browse without appearing in other users’ feeds. Only users you have expressed interest in can see your profile.
• Account Deletion: You may request full account deletion at any time. Upon deletion, your profile, photos, listings, and associated data will be permanently removed within the timeframes required by applicable law.

8. Reporting, Moderation & Enforcement

8.1 How to Report

SoleSpark provides clear, easily accessible reporting tools throughout the app. You can report:

• A user (from their profile or from a message thread).
• A product listing (from the product detail page).
• A community post (from the post itself).

When filing a report, you will be asked to select a violation category and optionally provide additional context. All reports are confidential—the reported user will not be told who filed the report.

8.2 Report Categories

For User Reports: Harassment or bullying, sexually explicit content, impersonation or fake profile, spam or scam, hate speech or discrimination, underage user, threats of violence, doxxing or privacy violation, other.

For Product Reports: Counterfeit or replica item, misleading description or photos, prohibited item category, inappropriate or explicit imagery, suspected stolen goods, other.

8.3 Moderation System

SoleSpark employs a hybrid moderation system combining AI-powered automated detection with human review:

• AI Layer: Real-time scanning of photos, text content, and behavioral signals (unusual messaging patterns, mass-reporting, rapid account creation).
• Human Layer: Trained moderators review flagged content, user reports, and edge cases. Human review is required before any permanent account action is taken.
• Private Messages: AI moderation scans messages for prohibited content. Human moderators access message history only when a formal report or investigation is initiated.

8.4 Enforcement Actions

SoleSpark uses a graduated enforcement model for most violations:

8.5 Ban Enforcement

When an account is permanently banned, SoleSpark blocks the associated email address and phone number from creating new accounts. In future iterations, device-level bans may also be implemented. Attempting to circumvent a ban by creating a new account is itself a zero-tolerance violation.

8.6 Appeals Process

Users may appeal any moderation action by contacting SoleSpark support within 14 days of the action. Appeals are reviewed by a human moderator who was not involved in the original decision. During the appeal period, the enforcement action remains in effect. SoleSpark will respond to all appeals within 5 business days.

9. Premium Features & Subscription Conduct

SoleSpark offers premium subscription tiers that unlock additional features. Premium members are subject to the same Community Guidelines as all other users—a subscription does not grant immunity from moderation or enforcement.

9.1 Premium Features May Include

• Unlimited Sparks (likes) per day
• Super Sparks (highlighted expressions of interest)
• See who has expressed interest in your profile
• See who is currently online
• Incognito Mode (only appear to people you’ve interacted with)
• Rewind your last swipe action
• Precision filters for discovery
• Travel Mode (expand search radius to other regions)
• Read receipts in messages
• Increased block limits (up to 100 users)
• Reduced marketplace commission rate (for eligible subscribers)

Note: Premium features are subject to change with future iterations. The full list of included features for each tier is displayed at the time of purchase.

9.2 Subscription Terms

• Subscriptions are managed through Apple In-App Purchase (iOS) or Google Play Billing (Android).
• Refunds are handled through the respective app store’s refund policy.
• Subscription benefits are suspended during any account suspension period.
• Account termination forfeits any remaining subscription time. No prorated refunds are issued for accounts terminated due to guideline violations.

10. Intellectual Property & Copyright

10.1 Your Content

You retain ownership of any content you upload to SoleSpark. However, by uploading content, you grant SoleSpark a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute that content within the platform for the purpose of operating the service. This license terminates when you delete the content or your account.

10.2 Other People’s Content

• Do not upload photos, images, or content that you do not have the right to use.
• Do not screenshot, copy, or redistribute another user’s photos or content outside the SoleSpark platform without their written permission.
• Users may only upload photos of themselves (or others who have given explicit written consent).

10.3 DMCA & Copyright Complaints

SoleSpark respects intellectual property rights and complies with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). If you believe your copyrighted work has been reproduced on SoleSpark without authorization, you may file a DMCA takedown notice by contacting our registered DMCA Copyright Agent (contact details provided in the Terms of Service). We will process valid takedown requests promptly.

10.4 Counterfeit Goods

Selling counterfeit or replica items as genuine on SoleSpark is strictly prohibited and constitutes fraud. First-time counterfeit violations result in immediate removal of the listing and a suspension. Repeat violations result in permanent account termination. SoleSpark may report counterfeit sellers to brand owners and relevant authorities.

11. Accessibility & Inclusion

SoleSpark is committed to building an inclusive platform accessible to all users regardless of ability, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, or body type.

11.1 Accessibility Features

• Alternative verification methods for users with physical disabilities or facial differences.
• Support ticket system available at every stage of onboarding for users who encounter barriers.
• Ongoing improvements to screen reader compatibility, contrast ratios, and font sizing.

11.2 Anti-Discrimination

Discrimination against any member based on protected characteristics is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, refusing to complete a marketplace transaction based on a buyer or seller’s race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or body type. Such conduct will be treated as a serious violation subject to suspension or permanent termination.

11.3 Language & Localization

SoleSpark will launch in English and will expand to additional languages over time (with Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese as initial priorities). Community Guidelines and safety information will be translated to match all supported languages. Native speakers will review all translations for accuracy and cultural appropriateness.

12. Amendments & Contact Information

12.1 Changes to These Guidelines

SoleSpark reserves the right to update these Community Guidelines at any time. Material changes will be communicated to all users via in-app notification and email at least 14 days before taking effect. Continued use of SoleSpark after the effective date of updated guidelines constitutes acceptance.

12.2 Contact & Support

If you have questions about these guidelines, need to report a concern, or require assistance, you can reach the SoleSpark team through:

• In-App Support: Available from Settings > Help & Support
• Email: support@solespark.com
• Response Time: We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24–48 hours.

12.3 Law Enforcement Requests

SoleSpark will comply with lawful requests from law enforcement agencies for user data in accordance with applicable law. We will notify affected users of such requests unless prohibited by law or court order.

Appendix A: Quick-Reference Violation Matrix

The following matrix provides a summary of common violations and their typical enforcement outcomes. This is a reference guide; actual enforcement may vary based on context, severity, and history.

Appendix B: Glossary of Terms

Sparks — SoleSpark’s term for “likes”—expressing interest in another user’s profile or product listing. Free users receive a limited number of Sparks per day.

Super Sparks — A premium feature that sends a highlighted, prioritized expression of interest to another user.

Double-Blind Shipping — SoleSpark’s privacy-preserving shipping system in which neither the buyer nor seller is exposed to the other party’s real name or physical address.

Verified Badge — A visual indicator on a user’s profile confirming they have completed SoleSpark’s identity verification process. Sellers have a separate, additional verification badge.

Incognito Mode — A premium feature that hides your profile from general discovery feeds. Only users you have interacted with can see your profile.

Wishlist — A saved list of marketplace products a user has expressed interest in (via swiping right on a product card).

Product Card — The swipeable card in the marketplace discovery feed. The product photo is the primary visual element (~80% of the card), with commerce data and a small seller avatar as secondary elements.

Seller Profile / Shop — A public-facing page accessible by tapping a seller’s avatar. Displays the seller’s bio, verification status, ratings, sales history, and all active product listings.

Gesture Verification — SoleSpark’s identity verification method in which users take two photos performing randomly assigned hand gestures to confirm their identity.

AI Moderation — Automated content scanning applied to all photos and text content on the platform.

Metadata Stripping — The automatic removal of GPS coordinates, device identifiers, timestamps, and other embedded data from uploaded photos.

CSAM — Child Sexual Abuse Material. Any content depicting minors in a sexual context. Detected instances are reported to NCMEC and law enforcement.

DMCA — Digital Millennium Copyright Act. U.S. federal law providing a process for copyright holders to request removal of infringing content from online platforms.

GDPR — General Data Protection Regulation. European Union regulation governing the collection, use, and protection of personal data.

CCPA — California Consumer Privacy Act. California state law providing consumers with rights over their personal data.

Pomeroy Law Group — SoleSpark’s legal counsel responsible for the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

End of Community Guidelines