At ustipshelps ("we", "us", "our") we take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, with whom we share it (if anyone), and the rights you have over your data when you use our website and the calorie and nutrition calculator for recipes (collectively, the "Service"). By using the Service, you agree to the practices described in this policy. If you do not agree with any part of this policy, please discontinue use of the Service.
1. Information We Collect
We aim to collect as little personal data as possible. The information we may collect falls into the following categories: (a) information you provide directly, such as your name, email address and message when submitting the contact form or subscribing to our newsletter; (b) automatically collected information, such as your IP address, browser type, device type, operating system, referring URLs and pages visited, gathered through standard web analytics; and (c) information you input into the recipe nutrition calculator, which is processed entirely in your browser and is never uploaded, stored or transmitted to our servers.
2. Cookies and Similar Technologies
We use a minimal number of cookies to operate the Service and understand traffic patterns. Strictly necessary cookies enable core functionality. Analytics cookies help us understand which content is most useful so we can improve. You can disable cookies through your browser settings, although some features may not work as intended without them. We do not use cross-site advertising cookies and we do not sell cookie data to third parties.
3. Analytics
We may use privacy-respecting analytics tools to measure aggregate usage of the Service. These tools collect anonymized information such as page views, session duration, country and device category. We do not attempt to re-identify visitors from analytics data. Where required by law, we obtain consent before activating non-essential analytics.
4. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to: (a) operate, maintain and improve the Service; (b) respond to inquiries submitted through the contact form; (c) send newsletters or product updates if you have explicitly subscribed; (d) detect, prevent and address technical issues, fraud and security incidents; and (e) comply with applicable legal obligations. We do not use your information for automated decision making or profiling that produces legal or similarly significant effects on you.
5. Sharing Your Information
We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share limited data with trusted service providers who help us operate the Service — for example email delivery providers or analytics platforms — strictly under data processing agreements that require them to protect your data. We may also disclose information when required by law, such as in response to a valid subpoena or court order.
6. Data Retention
We retain personal information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy. Contact form messages are retained for up to 24 months unless you request earlier deletion. Newsletter subscriber data is kept until you unsubscribe. Aggregated analytics data may be retained longer in anonymized form.
7. Data Protection and Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information, including encryption in transit (HTTPS), secure access controls and regular security reviews. However, no internet transmission is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. You are responsible for keeping any credentials you create with us confidential.
8. Your Rights (GDPR & Similar Laws)
If you reside in the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, California or another jurisdiction with data protection laws, you may have the right to: (a) access the personal data we hold about you; (b) request correction or deletion of that data; (c) object to or restrict certain processing; (d) request data portability; and (e) lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority. To exercise these rights, please contact us using the details on our Contact page. We will respond within the timeframes required by law.
9. International Transfers
Our service providers may be located in countries other than your own. When we transfer personal data internationally, we use appropriate safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses to ensure your data continues to receive protection consistent with applicable laws.
10. Children's Privacy
The Service is not directed to children under the age of 13 (or the equivalent minimum age in your jurisdiction). We do not knowingly collect personal data from children. If you believe a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so we can delete it.
11. Third-Party Tools and Links
The Service may contain links to third-party websites or include embedded content from third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties, and we encourage you to read their privacy policies. Any data you provide to a third party is governed by that party's policies, not ours.
12. Newsletter Communications
If you subscribe to our newsletter, we will use your email address to send you occasional updates about new features, content and tips. Every email contains an unsubscribe link, and you can opt out at any time. We will not share your email with unrelated third parties for marketing purposes.
13. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we make material changes, we will revise the "Last updated" date at the top of this page and, where appropriate, notify you via email or a prominent notice on the Service. Your continued use of the Service after changes become effective constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
14. Contact
For any privacy-related questions, requests or complaints, please reach out via our Contact page or email privacy@ustipshelps.com. We are committed to addressing your concerns promptly and transparently.