Terms and Conditions for Rubicom.space

Overview

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern your use of Rubicom.space (“Website”), operated by Rubicom BG Ltd (“Rubicom,” “we,” “us,” “our”). By accessing or using the Website, you agree to be bound by these Terms, our Privacy Policy, IP Policy, and any guidelines or policies incorporated herein. This document outlines essential rules to ensure a transparent and trustworthy interaction between all parties engaging on Rubicom.space.

Rubicom reserves the right to revise these Terms at its discretion. Unless stated otherwise, changes are effective upon posting. Users are strongly encouraged to regularly review these Terms and monitor for updates that may impact their use of the Website.

These Terms form the foundation for the legal and operational structure of Rubicom.space. By agreeing to these Terms, users affirm their commitment to adhering to fair practices, maintaining integrity, and respecting the rights of all participants within the platform ecosystem. They also acknowledge their responsibility to stay informed about any modifications or additions to these Terms, as ignorance of updates will not exempt users from compliance.

Additionally, Rubicom’s role in maintaining a reliable and efficient marketplace is underscored by its commitment to uphold the highest standards of data security, dispute resolution, and service enhancement. As a result, users are expected to engage with the platform in good faith, ensuring that their actions align with both the spirit and letter of these Terms. Detailed provisions within this document outline specific rights, responsibilities, and expectations for all parties, thereby fostering a collaborative and legally secure environment for everyone involved.

As such, this overview provides merely a summary. Users are advised to carefully read and understand the full Terms before proceeding to use the services provided by Rubicom.space.

Definitions

• Employer: A registered user seeking services. Employers are responsible for specifying project details and expectations when engaging with Freelancers.
• Freelancer: A registered user providing services. Freelancers are responsible for delivering high-quality work as per the agreed terms.
• Registered User: Collectively refers to Employers and Freelancers who use the Website’s features.
• Job Agreement: A binding agreement between an Employer and a Freelancer for services, including specific deliverables, timelines, and payment terms.
• Services: Features and functionalities provided by Rubicom.space to facilitate interaction and transactions between Employers and Freelancers, including project management tools, payment processing, and feedback mechanisms.

Eligibility

To use the Website, you must:

1. Be at least 18 years old and capable of forming legally binding contracts. This ensures that users possess the necessary legal capacity to engage in agreements and transactions conducted through the platform, avoiding potential disputes arising from incapacity.
2. Provide accurate and up-to-date information during registration, such as your legal name, email address, and payment details. This information is crucial for ensuring smooth communication, secure transactions, and compliance with financial regulations. Incomplete or falsified information may result in immediate account suspension or further investigations.
3. Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in your region, including those related to tax reporting, employment contracts, and intellectual property rights. Users are encouraged to consult legal advisors if they are uncertain about specific local or international obligations.
4. Agree to maintain the integrity of your account by updating any personal or payment information as changes occur, preventing disruptions in service access. Regular updates to account information are recommended to ensure seamless operations and avoid delays in payment processing or project management.

Rubicom reserves the right to suspend or terminate your account at its discretion. Actions taken may include, but are not limited to, warnings for minor violations, temporary restrictions on account functionality, or full account deactivation in cases of severe or repeated breaches. Rubicom may also perform periodic reviews of account activity to ensure adherence to these Terms and compliance with applicable regulations. Such reviews aim to identify fraudulent activities, unauthorized access, or potential violations of user agreements. Users will be notified of any concerns and may be required to provide additional documentation or clarifications to resolve issues effectively.

Registration and Accounts

Registration Process

To become a Registered User, you must:

• Complete the account registration process accurately and completely, ensuring all required fields are filled out properly and with truthful information.
• Provide accurate and updated information. This includes keeping your contact details and payment methods current, as failure to do so may result in disruptions to account functionality or project engagements.
• Safeguard your username and password to prevent unauthorized access. Strong, unique passwords are recommended to ensure account security.

You are responsible for all activities under your account, including any actions taken by unauthorized users if you fail to maintain the confidentiality of your login credentials. Any suspected unauthorized access or security breaches must be reported to Rubicom immediately. Failure to promptly notify us may result in restricted access, additional verification requirements, or, in severe cases, account suspension. Rubicom may also provide security tips and tools to help users protect their accounts from potential threats.

Additionally, users are encouraged to review their account settings periodically to ensure they remain aligned with current usage needs and compliance with Rubicom’s policies.

Membership Options

Rubicom offers a diverse range of membership plans designed for both Employers and Freelancers, ensuring that users can select an option tailored to their specific needs. Upon registration, a 90-day free period is automatically added, without the need to provide banking information.

Membership benefits and associated fees are subject to change. Rubicom ensures that reasonable notice is provided to all affected users regarding such updates, whether through direct communication or platform announcements. This allows users to adapt to any adjustments without significant disruption.

Refunds for membership fees or credits already paid are generally not provided, maintaining consistency with Rubicom’s policies. However, exceptions may be made under specific circumstances, such as administrative errors, system malfunctions, or other extraordinary events that significantly impact the user’s experience. In such cases, Rubicom encourages affected users to contact the support team for evaluation and resolution of their issues.

Additionally, users are encouraged to periodically review their membership plans to ensure they align with their current needs. Rubicom’s support team is available to assist users in upgrading, downgrading, or making adjustments to their memberships as necessary, providing a seamless experience tailored to evolving requirements.

User Relationships

Employer and Freelancer Relationship

• Employers and Freelancers operate as independent contractors, with no employment, partnership, or agency relationship created through the Website. This ensures that all engagements are governed strictly by mutually agreed-upon terms, allowing flexibility and freedom for both parties without the restrictions of labor laws.
• Job Agreements between Employers and Freelancers must comply with these Terms and all applicable laws, including those related to intellectual property, confidentiality, and payment obligations. Employers must provide clear project specifications, including deliverable expectations and timelines, to prevent misunderstandings. Freelancers, on the other hand, are encouraged to confirm these details in writing before commencing work.
• Rubicom is not a party to any Job Agreement and does not guarantee the quality, legality, or suitability of services provided by Freelancers. It is the Employer’s responsibility to conduct due diligence, such as reviewing profiles, portfolios, and ratings, and ensuring that the Freelancer’s qualifications meet project needs. Freelancers, similarly, must thoroughly assess project details, timelines, and payment terms before accepting a Job Agreement to avoid disputes.

Employers are responsible for managing, inspecting, and paying for deliverables. They should maintain open and regular communication with Freelancers to provide actionable feedback, clarify expectations, and resolve minor concerns as they arise. Employers must adhere to payment schedules outlined in the Job Agreement, demonstrating good faith in their professional engagements. Freelancers are responsible for delivering high-quality services that meet the agreed specifications. Timeliness, adherence to project scope, and proactive updates to Employers are critical to fulfilling their contractual obligations.

Both parties are strongly encouraged to use the platform’s built-in communication and project management tools to document key decisions and milestones. This practice helps minimize misunderstandings and creates an auditable trail for resolving disputes, if necessary.

Third-Party Beneficiary

Rubicom may enforce obligations outlined in Job Agreements to protect the Website’s integrity and ensure equitable dealings between users. This includes actively monitoring user interactions to identify patterns of misconduct, such as persistent non-payment or substandard service delivery. If violations are detected, Rubicom may take corrective actions, which can include issuing warnings, imposing temporary account restrictions, or implementing permanent bans for severe infractions.

In addition to these measures, Rubicom reserves the right to intervene in disputes to uphold the platform’s reputation and maintain trust within the user community. This intervention may include mediation efforts, the temporary freezing of funds, or arbitration referrals for unresolved issues. By addressing disputes proactively, Rubicom aims to preserve a fair and productive environment for all participants.

To further ensure transparency and user satisfaction, Rubicom conducts regular reviews of platform policies and procedures. These reviews help identify areas for improvement, allowing the Website to remain responsive to the evolving needs of its user base and industry standards. Users are encouraged to provide feedback or suggestions for policy enhancements, ensuring Rubicom continues to foster a trustworthy and effective freelance marketplace.

Fees and Payments

Fees

• Membership Fee: This is a subscription fee that varies depending on the level of participation chosen by the user. Membership tiers offer distinct benefits, such as access to enhanced features, advanced analytics, and dedicated customer support. Each tier is tailored to accommodate the unique needs of Employers and Freelancers, whether occasional users or those with high transaction volumes.
• Transfer Handling Fee: Employers are charged a nominal fee to process payments securely through the Website. This ensures the safe transfer of funds via the RubiTransfer service and contributes to the operational costs of the payment infrastructure.
• Arbitration Fee: This fee is applied when users engage in the Arbitration Service to resolve disputes. It reflects the administrative resources required to mediate conflicts efficiently and fairly. The exact amount is dependent on the complexity of the dispute and is specified prior to arbitration proceedings.

All fees are detailed on the Website and subject to change with reasonable notice. Users will be notified of updates via their registered email addresses or account dashboards, ensuring they are aware of any modifications to the fee structure.

Payment Services

Rubicom provides RubiTransfer to facilitate payments between Employers and Freelancers. This service operates as a secure escrow system, ensuring that funds are protected throughout the project lifecycle. Funds are held securely until both parties confirm satisfaction with the agreed deliverables. Upon Employer approval, the funds are promptly disbursed to Freelancers, minimizing risks, building trust, and streamlining financial transactions within the platform.

Rubicom continually invests in the RubiTransfer system to maintain high levels of security, efficiency, and user-friendliness. The system incorporates cutting-edge encryption protocols and fraud detection mechanisms to protect user transactions. Additionally, Rubicom ensures that the service adapts to various transaction needs, accommodating different project sizes, currencies, and timelines.

To further enhance the payment experience, RubiTransfer offers additional resources, including detailed payment histories for transparent record-keeping, automated invoicing for convenience, and customizable payment schedules to suit unique project requirements. Users also benefit from real-time notifications about payment statuses, providing transparency and reducing miscommunication between Employers and Freelancers.

In cases of disputes, RubiTransfer integrates seamlessly with the platform’s arbitration system, allowing funds to remain in escrow until the issue is resolved. This feature ensures that both parties are incentivized to reach a fair agreement while safeguarding financial interests.

Miscellaneous Payment Terms

• Payments are considered final upon authorization unless a dispute arises. In such cases, the funds will remain in escrow until the issue is resolved through mutual agreement or arbitration. This ensures fairness and transparency while safeguarding the interests of both Employers and Freelancers. Disputes are handled in alignment with the platform’s comprehensive resolution mechanisms.
• Refunds are issued only under specific circumstances, such as errors in payment processing, technical failures, or non-delivery of services. Users are strongly advised to thoroughly review project terms, including timelines and deliverables, before initiating payments. A proactive approach can mitigate misunderstandings and reduce the likelihood of disputes.
• Currency fluctuations and associated fees are the responsibility of the user. While Rubicom operates primarily in BGN, tools and resources are provided to assist users in managing multi-currency transactions. These include real-time currency conversion calculators and comprehensive guidelines to minimize the risks of unfavorable exchange rates.

Rubicom is not responsible for payment defaults, chargebacks, or the impact of currency fluctuations on final amounts received or paid. Users are encouraged to monitor their transactions closely, review receipts and payment logs, and contact support promptly if issues arise. Timely communication can expedite resolutions and prevent escalations.

Exclusivity and non-circumvention

Employers and Freelancers are required to use RubiTransfer for all transactions initiated on the Website. This exclusivity policy ensures that all payments are processed securely and that Rubicom can maintain the integrity and reliability of its services. Circumventing the system, such as by agreeing to external payments, undermines platform integrity and is strictly prohibited. Violations may result in account suspension, permanent termination, or legal consequences, alongside the potential forfeiture of membership privileges.

Rubicom employs a combination of automated systems and manual audits to monitor transactions for compliance. Advanced detection tools are used to identify patterns of circumvention or irregular activity. Users are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior directly to support, fostering a collaborative effort to uphold platform security.

To reinforce compliance, Rubicom regularly updates its policies, providing clear guidelines and educational resources to its users. By maintaining a transparent environment, Rubicom aims to ensure fairness and mutual accountability for all participants in the freelance marketplace.

Dispute Resolution

Rubicom offers an Arbitration Service designed to address disputes involving payments, project deliverables, or contractual obligations. This service provides an impartial forum for resolving conflicts, ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and equitably.

Arbitration Process

• Users must submit a formal request to initiate arbitration. This includes providing all relevant evidence, such as communication logs, project agreements, and proof of deliverables.
• Arbitration fees must be paid upfront and are determined by the nature and complexity of the dispute. These fees cover administrative costs and the time of the arbitrators involved.
• The arbitrator’s decision is final and binding, with no option for appeal. Users are encouraged to collaborate and resolve issues amicably before resorting to arbitration.

Efforts will be made to mediate disputes transparently and efficiently. The arbitrators will review all submitted evidence and consider the transaction’s history and terms before making a decision. Rubicom is committed to ensuring that the arbitration process upholds the principles of fairness, accountability, and clarity for all parties involved.

Users who repeatedly engage in disputes or fail to adhere to the arbitration rulings may face account restrictions or other penalties to preserve platform integrity.

Prohibited Activities

You agree not to:

1. Use the Website for illegal activities, including but not limited to fraud, harassment, or intellectual property infringement. Any attempt to utilize the platform for criminal purposes or activities that violate national or international laws is strictly forbidden and will result in immediate account termination.
2. Circumvent RubiTransfer Services or associated fees, undermining the platform’s financial integrity and operational sustainability. Examples of such circumvention include off-platform payments or agreements designed to avoid service charges.
3. Post infringing, defamatory, obscene, or otherwise prohibited content, in accordance with all applicable content policies and community standards. Prohibited content includes, but is not limited to, hate speech, graphic violence, and explicit materials aimed at harming others.
4. Interfere with the Website’s technical operations, such as by hacking, introducing malware, launching denial-of-service attacks, or manipulating site functions in unauthorized ways. Users must also refrain from exploiting vulnerabilities or bugs for personal gain.
5. Engage in activities that harm the Website’s reputation or functionality. This includes spamming, phishing, misrepresenting the platform, or spreading false information intended to damage Rubicom’s credibility.
6. Mislead or manipulate other users for personal gain, such as through false advertising, deceptive project proposals, or fraudulent feedback mechanisms.

Rubicom reserves the right to monitor, investigate, and respond to suspected violations of these prohibitions. Users found engaging in prohibited activities may face:

• Permanent account suspension.
• Legal action to recover damages caused by their actions.
• Reporting to relevant authorities, where applicable, for further investigation and prosecution.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Your use of the Website is governed by our Privacy Policy. Rubicom is committed to safeguarding your personal data through rigorous security measures and compliance with data protection laws. While we take significant precautions to protect your data, absolute security cannot be guaranteed due to evolving technological threats. You consent to data disclosures required by law or regulatory bodies.

Data Collection and Use

Rubicom may collect, analyze, and use aggregated, anonymized data to improve service offerings, enhance user experience, and develop new features. Personal information, such as names, emails, and payment details, will not be shared without explicit consent unless required by law. Our platform incorporates advanced encryption and restricted access protocols to ensure your data remains secure from unauthorized access.

User Responsibilities

Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their personal information and account credentials. Sharing sensitive data with unverified parties or engaging in practices that compromise privacy increases the risk of data breaches.

Rubicom encourages users to report suspected breaches or misuse of personal information promptly. In such cases, Rubicom will take swift action to mitigate the impact, including investigating the breach, notifying affected users, and reinforcing security measures to prevent recurrence.

Intellectual Property

• Registered Users retain full ownership of their original content, including multimedia files, written work, and project portfolios. This ensures that Freelancers and Employers retain rights to their intellectual contributions.
• Rubicom holds a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use certain user-provided content, including promotional materials and training examples, solely for platform advertising and service enhancement purposes. This license does not transfer ownership.
• Users are strictly prohibited from uploading, sharing, or utilizing content that infringes on the intellectual property rights of third parties. This includes copyrighted materials, trademarks, or patents that are not lawfully owned or licensed by the user.

Addressing Infringements

If a user is found to have infringed intellectual property rights:

1. The infringing content will be removed immediately.
2. The user’s account may be suspended or permanently terminated, depending on the severity of the violation.
3. Rubicom reserves the right to cooperate with copyright holders and authorities in prosecuting repeated or egregious violations.

Resolving Intellectual Property Disputes

User-to-User Disputes: Users are encouraged to first attempt amicable resolution through direct communication when intellectual property concerns arise.

Legal Action: For serious disputes requiring legal intervention, users are advised to seek independent legal counsel. Rubicom may provide relevant information upon legal request but does not act as a legal arbitrator.

Termination

Rubicom may suspend or terminate accounts for:

1. Breaches of these Terms, including violations of prohibited activities, failure to adhere to payment obligations, or non-compliance with platform policies.
2. Fraudulent activities, such as misrepresentation, identity theft, or attempts to exploit the platform for unlawful purposes.
3. Actions causing harm to the Website or its users, including but not limited to harassment, spamming, or introducing malicious software.

Upon termination:

• Access to your data may be revoked, and associated files, including project deliverables and communications, may be permanently deleted to protect user privacy and platform integrity.
• All outstanding fees, including unresolved payment disputes or penalties for violations, remain payable. Failure to settle these obligations may result in additional legal action or referral to collection agencies.
• Accounts cannot be reactivated under new identities, ensuring accountability and preventing repeat offenses. Rubicom employs advanced verification measures to identify and block such attempts.
• Users with terminated accounts will lose all benefits, privileges, and memberships associated with their account, including access to prior project records or feedback ratings.

Rubicom reserves the right to deny future access based on prior violations or associated risks. Users seeking reconsideration may submit a formal appeal, providing evidence of corrective actions taken or clarifying misunderstandings. However, appeals are subject to Rubicom’s sole discretion, and decisions are final.

Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

• Services are provided “as is” without warranties, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, or arising from a course of dealing or trade usage. Users are responsible for evaluating the suitability of the platform for their needs.
• Rubicom is not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including lost profits, business interruption, data breaches, loss of goodwill, or other intangible losses, even if advised of the possibility of such damages. This limitation applies to all claims arising from the use or inability to use the Website, whether based on warranty, contract, tort, or other legal theory.
• Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless Rubicom, its affiliates, and employees against claims, losses, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising from misuse of the Website, violations of these Terms, or third-party disputes caused by user actions. This indemnification extends to any breach of intellectual property rights or failure to comply with applicable laws.

General Provisions

Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the jurisdiction where Rubicom is registered. All disputes, except those resolved through the Arbitration process, shall be brought before competent local courts. Users acknowledge that the choice of governing law ensures a fair and consistent legal framework aligned with Rubicom’s operational principles. In case of conflicts with international laws, the governing jurisdiction specified here takes precedence unless otherwise required by mandatory regulations.

Severability

If any provision of these Terms is deemed invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of that provision shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions. The remaining sections will remain in full force and effect. To preserve the agreement’s overall intent, necessary amendments may be introduced. These amendments will seek to closely align with the original purpose of the invalid provision while maintaining compliance with applicable laws.

Force Majeure

Rubicom is not liable for delays or failures to perform obligations under these Terms caused by factors beyond its reasonable control. Examples include natural disasters, technological failures, strikes, labor disputes, governmental restrictions, wars, pandemics, and acts of terrorism. In such circumstances, Rubicom’s obligations will be suspended for the duration of the event, with all reasonable efforts made to resume services promptly. Users will be notified of any significant disruptions via the platform or registered email addresses.

Notices

Notices to Rubicom must be sent to office@rubicom.space. These notices should include the user’s full name, account details, and a clear description of the issue or inquiry. Notices to users will be sent to the email address associated with their account. Users are encouraged to regularly update their contact information to ensure seamless communication. Failure to maintain accurate contact details may result in missed notifications, for which Rubicom bears no responsibility. For critical announcements, Rubicom may also publish updates directly on the Website or through other prominent communication channels.

For questions, concerns, or additional assistance, users may contact us at office@rubicom.space. Our support team aims to respond promptly and address inquiries thoroughly to ensure user satisfaction.

By using Rubicom.space, you agree to these Terms and any updates posted hereafter. Users are advised to regularly review this document to stay informed of any revisions or changes to their rights and responsibilities.