Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

To provide you with a personalized experience and access to features such as contributing stories, managing your collection, or posting comments, we collect the following types of information:

• Account Information: When you register for an account, we collect personal details including your Name, Email Address, and Password (stored in an encrypted format).
• Third-Party Login Data (Google Login): If you choose to log in using Google (“Sign in with Google”), we access specific information from your Google account as authorized by you. This includes your:
  • Google Email Address (to verify your identity and create your account).
  • Full Name (to display on your profile).
  • Profile Picture (to set as your default avatar).
  • Note: We do not access your passwords, contacts, or other private Google data.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect for specific, limited purposes:

• Authentication: To verify your identity and allow you to log in to your account.
• Account Management: To maintain your profile, track your contributions (stories, comments), and manage your preferences.
• Communication: To send you important updates regarding your account (e.g., password resets) or newsletters (only if you have opted in).
• Security: To detect and prevent fraudulent activities or unauthorized access.

3. Google User Data Policy

Our use of information received from Google APIs will adhere to the Google API Services User Data Policy, including the Limited Use requirements.

• Limited Use: We do not sell, transfer, or use your Google user data for advertising purposes. The data is strictly used to authenticate your identity and create your user profile on The Philatelist.
• Data Sharing: We do not share your personal information with third parties, except as required by law or to protect our rights.

4. Data Retention and Deletion

We retain your personal information only as long as your account is active. You have the right to request the deletion of your data at any time.

• To Delete Your Data: You may request the deletion of your account and all associated data by contacting us at thephilatelist.in@gmail.com. Upon request, we will permanently remove your personal information from our servers within 30 days.

5. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies to maintain your login session (“Remember Me” functionality) and to improve website performance. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings, but disabling cookies may affect your ability to stay logged in.

6. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures, including SSL encryption, to protect your personal information during transmission and storage. However, please be aware that no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure.