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Glossary – User Agreement

User Agreement

Nikiforov Alexander
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What is a user agreement?

A user agreement is a legally significant document that establishes the rules of interaction between the owners of digital resources — such as websites, applications, or software — and their users. This document clearly defines the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of both parties and sets rules for the use of content and services provided by the resource.

Who needs a user agreement and why

Having a user agreement is mandatory for all organizations that engage in selling goods, collecting personal data, or providing access to content and services. The main functions of this document include:

  • Informing users: In the agreement, the company provides information about its product, describes the rules for using the platform, as well as its features and capabilities.
  • Establishing rights and obligations: For example, if a user has the right to publish content on the site, they may be tasked with ensuring the accuracy of the information posted.
  • Protecting owners: The document legally restricts user actions, preventing the misuse of content and prohibiting the publication of information that violates the law.
  • Limiting owners' liability: Clearly defined terms allow owners to avoid liability for certain actions, such as application malfunctions.

The user agreement also helps to define the area of responsibility for both service owners and users, which reduces the likelihood of lawsuits and fines, as well as claims from regulatory authorities. For example, the housing booking service "Sutochno.ru" clearly states its responsibility for renting premises, including information about amenities.

The user agreement is considered a contract of adhesion and a public offer, which means that the terms are determined solely by one party — the resource owner, while the user accepts them. The transaction is concluded automatically as soon as the user performs one of the actions: registers on the site, checks a box agreeing to the rules, downloads the application, or continues to use the resource. Thus, there is no need for standard handwritten signatures.

For example, when registering on the Gloria Jeans website, the user automatically agrees to the platform's rules and the processing of their personal data. Typically, the user agreement is available publicly on the website, in the application, or in the software, allowing anyone interested to review its terms.

Importance of the user agreement

The user agreement has legal force and can be used in court proceedings. Ignorance of its terms does not exempt the user from responsibility, so it is strongly recommended to carefully study user agreements before beginning to use any service or application. For example, the "M.Video" website also has a user agreement that regulates relationships with clients and protects the interests of both owners and users.