Apple Ascend | Responsible Social Gaming Policy

At Apple Ascend, we are committed to fostering a culture of responsible gaming. Our aim is to prioritize customer care and social responsibility, ensuring that your experience remains safe, enjoyable, and balanced.

We understand the potential risks of PC gaming and want to empower you to maintain control over your gaming habits. To support this goal, we’ve implemented measures to help users manage their gaming activity responsibly.

1. Stay in Control of Your Gaming

Gaming should always be a source of entertainment, not a way to escape reality or generate income. Here are some guidelines to help you stay on track:

• Enjoy Moderately: Games are designed for fun but should be played in moderation.
• Manage Your Time: While we’re happy to have you here, ensure that gaming doesn’t consume excessive time. Treat it like any other leisure activity—such as a movie night or bowling session.
• Use Management Tools: Our platform includes features that allow you to take breaks when needed. See section 2 for details.
• Self-Evaluate: If you feel gaming is becoming excessive, refer to the self-assessment checklist in section 3 to reflect on your habits.

2. Taking Control: Gaming Management Tools

To promote responsible gaming, Apple Ascend offers tools that allow users to take a step back when needed.

Self-Exclusion & Account Suspension Options

If you feel gaming has become problematic, you can use the self-exclusion tools available under your profile settings. Options include:

• Permanent Self-Exclusion: Selecting this option will block access to your account indefinitely. This action is irreversible.
• Limited Time-Outs: You may choose to restrict your account for a specific duration by selecting your desired return date.

Once activated, your exclusion begins immediately. If you still manage to access the platform during this period, notify us via email.

During self-exclusion:

• You will lose access to Apple Ascend, but you can request account history details by contacting our support team.
• After a time-out period ends, access to your account will automatically be restored.
• Marketing materials will cease during the exclusion period. However, updates may take up to 24 hours to apply—please disregard any messages received during this window.

If necessary, we reserve the right to apply self-exclusion at our discretion if we identify gaming-related concerns.

Account Closure

If you wish to permanently close your account, submit a written request to our support team. While we have the right to decline or terminate accounts at our discretion, any contractual obligations will be honored.

For Non-Registered Users

If you do not have an account but wish to be excluded from our platform, email us with your full name, residential address, age, and email address. Requests can only be revoked after seven days from submission.

3. Self-Assessment Checklist

If you suspect gaming is becoming a problem, use this self-assessment to reflect:

• Do you often think about gaming when you're not playing?
• Do you hide or lie about the time you spend gaming?
• Do interruptions during gameplay cause frustration or anger?
• Has gaming disrupted your sleep or daily schedule?
• Do you rely on games to deal with stress or frustration?
• Have you neglected hobbies, responsibilities, or relationships due to gaming?
• Do you feel guilty or ashamed about your gaming habits?

If you answered “yes” to multiple questions, you may benefit from seeking help. See section 4 for support resources.

4. Support Resources

If you or someone you know struggles with gaming-related issues, consider reaching out to the following organizations for assistance:

• Computer Gaming Addicts Anonymous (CGAA): Email: helpline@cgaa.info
  (Note: CGAA is an independent entity and not affiliated with Apple Ascend.)

For account-specific concerns, contact our support team for assistance.

Player Protection Policy

1. Protecting Minors

To ensure children’s safety in the digital age, we encourage parents to use filtering software to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate content.

2. Parental Tips

• Secure your username and password.
• Avoid leaving logged-in devices unattended.
• Do not enable “Remember Me” on shared devices.
• Monitor the use of devices shared with minors.
• Use content filtering software, such as NetNanny, CyberSitter, or SafeToNet.

3. Guidelines for Players

• Ensure that gaming is your personal choice.
• Set limits for both time and expenditure before starting.
• Avoid playing if:
  • It interferes with daily responsibilities.
  • You are recovering from addiction.
  • You are under the influence of alcohol or substances.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain a safe, enjoyable, and balanced gaming experience on Apple Ascend.