Privacy Policy

Last Updated: December 24, 2024

Introduction

Welcome to Democracy Matters Substack ("we," "us," or "our"). We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our Substack publication.

Information We Collect

1. Personal Information

We collect information that you provide directly:

• Name and email address

• Billing information for paid subscriptions

• Profile information

• Comments and communication preferences

• Correspondence you send us

2. Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our publication, we automatically collect:

• Device information (type, operating system)

• IP address

• Browser type

• Usage patterns

• Interaction with content

• Access times and dates

3. Subscription Information

For paid subscribers, we collect:

• Payment information (processed securely through Stripe)

• Subscription preferences

• Transaction history

• Account settings

How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Deliver newsletter content

• Process subscriptions

• Respond to inquiries

• Improve our content and services

• Send administrative information

• Analyze usage patterns

• Prevent fraud

• Comply with legal obligations

Information Sharing

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information. We may share information:

• With service providers (like Substack and payment processors)

• To comply with legal obligations

• To protect our rights and safety

• With your consent

Data Security

We implement reasonable security measures to protect your information, including:

• Encryption of sensitive data

• Regular security assessments

• Limited access to personal information

• Secure data storage

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal information

• Correct inaccurate data

• Request deletion of your information

• Opt-out of communications

• Export your data

• Withdraw consent

Cookie Policy

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

• Remember your preferences

• Analyze site traffic

• Improve user experience

• Maintain security

You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences.

Children's Privacy

Our publication is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13.

Third-Party Links

Our publication may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices.

International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred and processed in countries other than your own. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.

Changes to Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy. We will notify subscribers of material changes via email.

California Privacy Rights

California residents have additional rights under the CCPA, including:

• Right to know what personal information is collected

• Right to delete personal information

• Right to opt out of personal information sales

• Right to non-discrimination for exercising these rights

Contact Us

For privacy-related questions or concerns, email substack@democracymatters.ai. Address: 7220 Trade Street, Ste 101, San Diego, CA 92121

Specific Rights by Location

European Economic Area (EEA) Residents

Under GDPR, you have rights to:

• Access your data

• Rectify inaccurate data

• Erase your data

• Restrict processing

• Data portability

• Object to processing

Other Jurisdictions

Additional rights may apply based on your location.

Data Retention

We retain personal information for as long as necessary to:

• Provide requested services

• Comply with legal obligations

• Resolve disputes

• Enforce agreements

Legal Basis for Processing

We process personal information based on:

• Contractual necessity

• Legal obligations

• Legitimate interests

• Your consent

Using our publication, you acknowledge this Privacy Policy and consent to the practices described herein.