ASJ

Privacy Policy

Last updated: April 2026

1. Introduction

Applied Systems Journal ("we," "our," or "the platform") is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains what data we collect, how we use it, and your rights regarding that data. This platform is self-hosted and operated independently.

2. Data We Collect

We collect minimal data necessary for platform functionality:

  • Comments: When you leave a comment, we store your chosen display name and comment text. Email is optional and stored only if you provide it.
  • Engagement data: We track anonymous page view counts and like counts. We use a one-way hash of your IP address for deduplication — we do not store raw IP addresses.
  • Technical data: Standard server logs may temporarily contain IP addresses and browser information for security and debugging purposes.

3. How We Use Your Data

  • Display comments on articles
  • Calculate view and engagement metrics
  • Prevent spam and abuse
  • Improve platform functionality

4. Data Storage

All data is stored locally on our self-hosted server. We do not use third-party cloud databases, analytics services, or tracking pixels. No data is transmitted to external services.

5. Data Sharing

We do not sell, trade, rent, or share your personal data with any third parties. Period.

6. Cookies

This platform uses minimal cookies strictly for functionality:

  • Session cookie: Used only for administrator authentication. Not set for regular visitors.
  • Local storage: We may use browser local storage to remember your like preferences. This data never leaves your browser.

We do not use tracking cookies, advertising cookies, or third-party cookies.

7. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Request deletion of your comments
  • Request information about data we hold related to you
  • Withdraw from engagement features at any time

To exercise these rights, contact the site administrator.

8. Data Retention

Comments are retained as long as the associated article exists. Hashed engagement data is retained indefinitely for aggregate statistics. Server logs are rotated and deleted regularly.

9. Children's Privacy

This platform is not directed at individuals under 16. We do not knowingly collect data from children.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date.