Privacy Policy — Map of Life (mol.org)
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
This Privacy Policy explains how Map of Life (“MOL,” “we,” or “our”) collects, uses, stores, and protects information obtained through mol.org and its related Services.
1. Information We Collect
a. Information You Provide
- Name, email address, affiliation, or similar when registering or contacting us
- Optional survey or feedback
b. Automatically Collected Information
- IP address
- Browser and device type
- Pages visited, time spent, and referring URLs
- Usage logs for security and performance monitoring
- Cookies and similar technologies (for analytics or performance)
We do not collect sensitive personal information.
2. How We Use Information
We use collected data to:
- Provide, maintain, and improve the Services
- Monitor usage, performance, and security
- Respond to inquiries and support requests
- Prevent unauthorized scraping or misuse
- Conduct anonymized analytics and research
- Communicate updates or policy changes (if you opt in)
3. Legal Basis for Processing
If required under applicable law (e.g., GDPR), we rely on:
- Legitimate interests (site operation, security, analytics)
- Consent (newsletter sign-ups, optional features)
- Contractual necessity (if an account is required)
4. Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell or rent personal information.
We may share data with:
- Service providers (hosting, analytics, security) under confidentiality agreements
- Researchers in aggregated or anonymized form
- Legal authorities if required to comply with law or protect rights
- Affiliated research institutions under privacy-preserving agreements
5. Data Storage and Retention
Data is stored securely using industry-standard safeguards.
We retain information only as long as necessary for operational and legal purposes.
6. Cookies and Tracking
We use:
- Essential cookies for site functionality
- Analytics cookies (e.g., Google Analytics)
- Preference cookies for user settings
Users can manage cookie preferences through browser settings.
7. Data Rights
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:
- Access personal data
- Request correction or deletion
- Object to processing
- Request data export
- Withdraw consent (when applicable)
Requests may be sent to info@mol.org.
8. International Transfers
Data may be processed or stored in other countries. We use appropriate safeguards when transferring data internationally.
9. Children’s Privacy
The Services are not intended for children under 13.
We do not knowingly collect personal data from minors.
10. Security
We use administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect information, but no system is 100% secure.
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update the Privacy Policy periodically. Updated versions will be posted with a revised effective date.
12. Contact
For privacy questions or requests: info@mol.org
