Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Story Hub ("we," "our," or "us") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use our Platform.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Information You Provide

• Account Information: Username, email address, password
• Profile Information: Bio, profile picture, preferences
• Content: Stories, chapters, comments, votes you submit
• Communications: Messages you send to us or other users

2.2 Automatically Collected Information

• Usage Data: Pages viewed, time spent, features used
• Device Information: IP address, browser type, device type, operating system
• Cookies: Session data, preferences, analytics
• Log Data: Access times, error logs, referral URLs

3. How We Use Your Information

• Provide Services: Enable account functionality, display content, process interactions
• Improve Platform: Analyze usage patterns, fix bugs, develop features
• Communication: Send notifications, updates, support messages
• Security: Prevent fraud, abuse, and unauthorized access
• Legal Compliance: Comply with legal obligations and enforce our Terms

4. Information Sharing

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information in the following circumstances:

• Public Content: Stories, chapters, comments, and profiles are publicly visible
• Service Providers: Third-party services that help operate the Platform (hosting, analytics, email)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or legal process
• Safety: To protect rights, property, or safety of The Story Hub, users, or public
• Business Transfers: In case of merger, acquisition, or sale of assets

5. Cookies and Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to:

• Maintain your session and keep you logged in
• Remember your preferences and settings
• Analyze how you use the Platform
• Provide personalized content and recommendations

You can control cookies through your browser settings, but some features may not work properly if cookies are disabled.

6. Data Security

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

• Encryption of data in transit and at rest
• Secure authentication systems
• Regular security audits and updates
• Access controls and monitoring

However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Your Rights and Choices

Depending on your location, you may have the following rights:

• Access: Request a copy of your personal data
• Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your account and data
• Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications
• Data Portability: Request your data in a portable format
• Restriction: Request limitation of processing

To exercise these rights, contact us through the Platform or email us at privacy@the-story-hub.com (if applicable).

8. Children's Privacy

The Story Hub is not intended for users under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately.

9. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your own. By using the Platform, you consent to such transfers. We take steps to ensure your data receives adequate protection.

10. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to:

• Provide services to you
• Comply with legal obligations
• Resolve disputes and enforce agreements

When you delete your account, we will delete or anonymize your personal information, except where we are required to retain it for legal purposes.

11. Third-Party Links

The Platform may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by posting a notice on the Platform or sending an email. Your continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us through the Platform or at privacy@the-story-hub.com.