Privacy Policy
How we collect, use, and protect your information when you use the Christian Sermon Dataset.
Minimal Data Collection
We collect only essential information needed to provide our research platform services.
Transparent Use
We are transparent about what data we collect and how it's used to improve our services.
No Personal Data Sales
We never sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for commercial purposes.
Last Updated: January 15, 2025
This Privacy Policy explains how Gospel Sounders ("we," "us," or "our") collects, uses, and protects information when you use the Christian Sermon Dataset website and services.
Information We Collect
1. Information You Provide
Currently, our platform operates as a read-only research database. We do not require user registration or collect personal information such as:
- Names, email addresses, or contact information
- Account credentials or passwords
- Personal preferences or settings
- Payment information (all content is free)
2. Automatically Collected Information
When you visit our website, we may automatically collect certain technical information:
- IP address and general location information
- Browser type and version
- Device type and operating system
- Pages visited and time spent on site
- Referring website or search terms
- Date and time of visits
3. Cookies and Similar Technologies
We use minimal cookies and similar technologies:
- Essential Cookies: Required for basic website functionality
- Analytics Cookies: To understand how visitors use our site
- No Advertising Cookies: We do not use cookies for advertising
How We Use Information
Legitimate Purposes
We use collected information solely for:
- Providing access to our research database
- Improving website performance and user experience
- Understanding usage patterns to enhance our services
- Ensuring website security and preventing abuse
- Complying with legal requirements
- Responding to user inquiries and support requests
Information Sharing
We Do Not Sell Your Data
We never sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties for commercial purposes.
We may share information in the following limited circumstances:
- Service Providers: With trusted third-party services that help us operate our website (e.g., hosting, analytics)
- Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights and users
- Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or asset sale
- Consent: When you have given explicit consent
Data Security
Technical Safeguards
- HTTPS encryption for all data transmission
- Secure hosting infrastructure
- Regular security updates and monitoring
- Access controls and authentication
Data Minimization
- We collect only necessary information
- Data is retained only as long as needed
- Regular deletion of outdated information
- No storage of sensitive personal data
Your Rights
You have the following rights regarding your information:
Access & Transparency
- Request information about data we collect
- Understand how your data is used
- Access our privacy practices
Control & Deletion
- Opt-out of non-essential cookies
- Request deletion of your data
- Correct inaccurate information
Third-Party Services
External Links
Our website contains links to YouTube channels and other external sites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites.
We encourage you to read the privacy policies of any external sites you visit.
Children's Privacy
Our service is not designed for or directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that we have collected personal information from a child under 13, we will delete it immediately.
International Users
Global Access: Our service is accessible worldwide, but our primary legal framework is based in the United States.
GDPR Compliance: For users in the European Union, we comply with GDPR requirements including the right to access, rectify, and erase personal data.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
Contact Information
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:
- Email: privacy@gospelsounders.org
- Subject Line: "Privacy Policy Inquiry"
- Response Time: We aim to respond within 48 hours
Questions About Your Privacy?
We are committed to protecting your privacy and are happy to address any concerns.