1. Introduction

ZIQR LLC (“ZIQR,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is a modern media platform delivering thought-provoking news, reflections, and insights that inspire awareness and depth. From global headlines to mindful storytelling, ZIQR keeps you informed, reflective, and engaged with the world around you.

This Privacy Policy explains how ZIQR collects, uses, discloses, and safeguards your personal information when you interact with our website (ziqr.org), mobile applications, or other digital services (collectively, the “Services”).

We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data responsibly, transparently, and in full compliance with all applicable laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the UK Data Protection Act (DPA 2018), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), PIPEDA (Canada), and other global privacy frameworks.

By using our Services, you agree to this Privacy Policy.

2. Information We Collect

A. Information You Provide

• Name (first and last or display name)

• Email address

• Username and account credentials

• Profile photo (if uploaded)

• Bio or “About” text

• Optional contact information such as phone number or social media links

B. Information Collected Automatically

• Device details (IP address, browser type, operating system, device model)

• Usage data (pages viewed, time spent, navigation paths, click behavior)

• Approximate geolocation (derived from IP address)

• Cookies, web beacons, and similar tracking tools

• Application telemetry, crash logs, and diagnostics

C. Transactional and Commercial Data

• Purchase or order information for products or subscriptions

• Payment data processed through third-party providers (e.g., Stripe, Shopify Payments, PayPal) — ZIQR does not store raw payment credentials

D. Communication Data

• Messages sent to ZIQR (via contact forms or email)

• Customer-support interactions and internal case notes

• Newsletter subscriptions and email engagement preferences

E. Social and Third-Party Integrations

• Authentication data from Google, Apple, or other sign-in providers

• Engagement metrics from embedded content such as Spotify or YouTube

F. Technical and Operational Data

• System error logs

• Performance metrics and security monitoring data

3. How We Use Your Information

ZIQR processes data for the following purposes:

1. Service Operation and Maintenance – To operate, maintain, and improve our website, apps, and systems.

2. Account Management – To create, verify, and manage user accounts and credentials.

3. Personalization – To tailor content and experiences based on your interests and usage.

4. Communication and Marketing – To send newsletters, product updates, or promotional materials (with opt-out options).

5. Analytics and Performance – To evaluate engagement, demographics, and performance metrics.

6. Commerce and Transactions – To process purchases and provide customer support.

7. Security and Fraud Prevention – To detect, investigate, and prevent unauthorized access or abuse.

8. Legal and Regulatory Compliance – To meet legal obligations or respond to lawful requests.

9. Research and Development – To improve our products and create new media experiences.

4. Legal Bases for Processing

ZIQR processes personal data under the following legal bases:

• Consent – When you voluntarily provide information or agree to specific uses.

• Contractual Necessity – When data processing is required to perform or deliver our Services.

• Legitimate Interests – When processing supports ZIQR’s operational, analytical, or security interests.

• Legal Obligations – When necessary to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

• Vital or Public Interests – When necessary to protect vital interests or fulfill legal duties in the public good.

5. Data Storage and Security

ZIQR employs a bank-grade, multi-layered security framework to protect all data.

• Hosting and Storage: Data is securely stored on Google Cloud Platform and proprietary servers located in the United States, all compliant with ISO/IEC 27001 and SOC 2 Type II standards.

• Encryption: All data is encrypted in transit and at rest using AES-256 and TLS 1.3 protocols.

• Access Control: Only authorized personnel have data access, protected by multi-factor authentication and audit logging.

• Network Security: Firewalls, intrusion detection, and real-time monitoring are continuously deployed.

• Incident Response: ZIQR maintains a formal breach-response procedure, including immediate notification where legally required.

• Disaster Recovery: Encrypted backups and redundancy ensure business continuity.

6. Data Retention

ZIQR retains personal data only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Policy, meet legal or regulatory requirements, resolve disputes, and enforce agreements. When data is no longer required, it is securely deleted or anonymized.

7. Your Rights

You have the following rights concerning your personal data:

• Access: Request confirmation and obtain a copy of your personal data.

• Rectification: Request corrections or updates to inaccurate data.

• Erasure: Request deletion where legally permitted.

• Restriction: Request limitation of processing under specific conditions.

• Portability: Receive your data in a structured, machine-readable format.

• Objection: Object to processing based on legitimate interests or direct marketing.

• Withdrawal of Consent: Withdraw consent at any time without affecting prior lawful processing.

• Complaint: File a complaint with a supervisory or regulatory authority.

Requests can be submitted to hello@ziqr.org and will be handled promptly in accordance with applicable laws.

8. Children’s Privacy

ZIQR does not knowingly collect or process personal information from children under 13 (U.S.) or under 16 (EU/UK).

If we discover that data from a child has been collected without verified parental consent, it will be immediately deleted. Parents or guardians may contact hello@ziqr.org to request removal of such data.

9. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

ZIQR uses cookies, analytics tools, and similar technologies to operate and improve its Services.

Tools include:

• Google Analytics

• Firebase Analytics and Crashlytics

• Meta (Facebook/Instagram) Pixel

• Spotify and YouTube embeds

• Email tracking via providers such as Mailchimp or Brevo

User Control:

You may manage or delete cookies through browser settings. EU and UK users will see a consent banner where legally required. Disabling cookies may limit site functionality.

10. Data Transfers

Because ZIQR operates globally, personal data may be transferred and processed in countries outside your residence, including the United States. All transfers comply with applicable data-protection requirements, using mechanisms such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) or equivalent safeguards.

11. Third-Party Links and Integrations

ZIQR’s Services may link to or embed third-party platforms (e.g., Spotify, YouTube, Instagram). These platforms have independent privacy practices. ZIQR is not responsible for their policies or actions. Users are encouraged to review those third-party privacy statements directly.

12. Updates to This Policy

ZIQR may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in operations, technology, or legal obligations. Any significant modifications will be posted at ziqr.org/privacy with a new effective date. Continued use of the Services after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised Policy.

13. Contact Us

For questions, requests, or privacy-related concerns, please contact:

ZIQR LLC

📍 Houston, Texas, USA

📞 (832) 944-8165

📧 hello@ziqr.org

🌐 https://ziqr.org

© 2025 ZIQR LLC. All rights reserved.

This Privacy Policy complies with global data protection standards and reflects ZIQR’s commitment to transparency, trust, and user privacy worldwide.