CruelWinter.org – Privacy Policy

Effective Date: May 27, 2025

Your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how CruelWinter.org collects, uses, stores, and protects your personal information. By using our forum, you agree to the terms outlined in this policy.

1. Information We Collect

We collect the following types of information when you register or use the forum:

• Account Information: Username, email address, password (hashed)
• Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device information, and usage logs
• Optional Profile Details: Biography, location, links, avatars, etc.
• Communication: Private messages, forum posts, replies, and comments

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Create and manage your forum account
• Improve and maintain the site’s performance and security
• Moderate content and enforce community guidelines
• Send important notifications related to your account or forum activity
• Respond to inquiries or support requests

3. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies to:

• Keep you logged in
• Remember preferences and settings
• Analyze forum traffic and performance

You can disable cookies in your browser, but some features may not work properly.

4. Sharing of Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share your data only:

• With hosting providers and technical service providers (for site functionality)
• If required by law or legal process
• To protect the safety and rights of our users and platform

5. Data Retention

We keep your data for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. Deleted accounts may retain limited backup data for security and legal purposes.

6. Data Security

We use encryption, firewalls, and other security measures to protect your data. However, no system is 100% secure, so we cannot guarantee complete protection against breaches.

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate data
• Request deletion of your account and associated data
• Withdraw consent for certain uses, where applicable

To exercise any of these rights, contact us using the information below.

8. Children's Privacy

Users must be at least 13 years old to use CruelWinter.org. We do not knowingly collect data from anyone under 13. If we learn that a child has registered, we will delete the account and related data.

9. External Links

CruelWinter.org may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for their content, privacy practices, or data handling.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy at any time. If we make significant changes, we will post a notice on the forum. Continued use of the site after updates means you accept the changes.

11. Contact Information

If you have questions about this policy or wish to request data changes:

Email: support@cruelwinter.org

By using CruelWinter.org, you consent to the terms of this Privacy Policy.