1. Information we collect
We may collect:
- Account data: email, display name, username, phone (optional), profile photo, bio
- Content: articles, comments, media uploads, publisher profiles
- Usage data: page views, likes, reshares, device/browser type, IP address, cookies
- Authentication: email and a securely hashed password (bcrypt) stored in our own database
2. How we use information
We use collected data to:
- Provide, secure, and improve the Platform
- Authenticate users and personalize your experience
- Calculate trust scores and surface trending content
- Send transactional emails (verification, password reset, notifications)
- Moderate content, investigate reports, and enforce policies
- Comply with legal obligations
3. Sharing & disclosure
We do not sell your personal information. We may share data with service providers (hosting, email, storage, analytics) under contractual safeguards, or when required by law, court order, or to protect rights and safety. Anonymous article identity may be disclosed to authorized administrators under strict policy controls.
4. Cookies & local storage
We use cookies and local storage for session tokens, theme preferences, PWA install prompts, and anonymous engagement identifiers. You can control cookies through your browser settings; some features may not work if cookies are disabled.
5. Data retention & security
We retain account and content data while your account is active and as needed for legal or operational purposes. We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect data, but no system is completely secure.
6. Your rights
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may request access, correction, deletion, or portability of your personal data. You may update profile information in your dashboard or contact us to exercise these rights. Account deletion removes your profile and associated content subject to legal retention requirements.
7. Children
The Platform is not directed at children under 16. We do not knowingly collect data from children. If you believe a child has provided us personal information, contact us so we can delete it.
8. Changes
We may update this policy periodically. Material changes will be posted on this page with an updated date. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.