Privacy & Data Policy

1. Introduction

Aevum Encyclopedia operates as a global, open-access knowledge repository enhanced by artificial intelligence and expert curation. We recognize that trust is foundational to learning and research. This Privacy & Data Policy explains our data practices in plain language, aligns with GDPR, CCPA, and international data protection standards, and applies to all visitors, registered users, contributors, and API consumers.

2. Information We Collect

We collect information to maintain service integrity, personalize your experience, and continuously improve our AI models. Data is categorized as follows:

We do not collect sensitive personal data (e.g., health records, biometric data, financial account numbers) unless strictly necessary for payment processing, which is handled by compliant third-party providers.

3. How We Use Your Information

Your data enables core functionality and continuous improvement:

• Service Delivery: Authenticating accounts, processing contributions, and maintaining platform stability.
• AI Enhancement: Training and refining our semantic search, fact-checking algorithms, and knowledge graph models using anonymized, aggregated interaction data.
• Personalization: Tailoring search results, language preferences, and recommended readings based on your usage patterns.
• Safety & Compliance: Detecting fraud, preventing abuse, verifying contributor credentials, and fulfilling legal obligations.
• Communication: Sending service updates, policy changes, security alerts, and opt-in newsletters.

4. Data Sharing & Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. Data may be shared only under the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: Cloud hosting, analytics, content delivery, and AI infrastructure partners bound by strict data processing agreements (DPA).
• Legal Requirements: When compelled by valid subpoenas, court orders, or government requests to protect rights, property, or public safety.
• Business Transfers: In the event of merger, acquisition, or asset sale, with prior notice and continued privacy commitments.
• Aggregate & Anonymized Data: We may publish de-identified usage statistics for research, transparency reports, and academic collaboration. Re-identification is technically and procedurally prohibited.

5. Data Security

We implement industry-standard technical and organizational measures to safeguard your data:

• End-to-end TLS 1.3 encryption for data in transit
• AES-256 encryption for data at rest
• Role-based access controls (RBAC) and multi-factor authentication for internal systems
• Regular penetration testing, vulnerability scans, and third-party security audits
• Automated data retention policies that purge inactive or unnecessary records

While we strive for maximum security, no internet-based service is entirely risk-free. You are encouraged to use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where available.

6. Your Rights & Choices

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the following rights regarding your personal data:

• Access & Portability: Request a copy of your data in a structured, machine-readable format.
• Rectification: Correct inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Erasure (Right to be Forgotten): Request deletion of your data, subject to legal retention obligations.
• Restriction & Objection: Limit processing or object to certain uses, including AI training and profiling.
• Withdraw Consent: Opt out of marketing communications or non-essential tracking at any time.

To exercise these rights, use the privacy dashboard in your account settings or contact our Data Protection Officer (DPO) via the details provided below. We will respond to verified requests within 30 days.

7. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

We use cookies, web beacons, and similar technologies to ensure functionality, measure performance, and improve user experience. Categories include:

• Strictly Necessary: Authentication, security, and session management (cannot be disabled).
• Performance & Analytics: Anonymous usage metrics to optimize site speed and content relevance.
• Functional: Language preferences, theme settings, and accessibility options.
• Third-Party: Limited integration with open-source educational tools and accessibility services.

You may manage preferences through your browser settings or our built-in cookie consent banner. Disabling certain cookies may affect platform functionality.

8. Children's Privacy

Aevum Encyclopedia is designed for general audiences, including educational use. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 (or the applicable age of digital consent in your jurisdiction). If we become aware of such collection, we will take immediate steps to delete the data. Parents or guardians may contact us to verify or request removal of minor-related information.

9. Policy Updates

We may revise this policy to reflect technological advancements, legal requirements, or operational changes. Material updates will be communicated via email, platform notices, or prominent homepage banners. The "Last Updated" date at the top of this page will reflect the most current version. Continued use of our services after modifications constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

10. Contact Us

For privacy inquiries, data requests, or security reports, please reach out to our dedicated team:

If you reside in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom, you also have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority.