Independent MindsLast Updated: 12/30/2025Independent Minds (“we,” “us,” or “our”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting the personal information you share with us.This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and your choices regarding that information.1. Information We CollectWe collect only the information reasonably necessary to operate the Independent Minds platform.Information you provide directly:Name and email addressSubmission content and responsesCommunications sent to us (such as emails or support inquiries)Information collected through service providers:Payment confirmation details (such as email address, timestamp, and transaction status) via third-party payment processorsSubmission metadata via third-party form providersWe do not collect or store full payment card numbers.2. How We Use InformationWe use collected information to:Verify participant eligibility and submissionsAdminister participation events and editorial reviewCommunicate regarding participation, submissions, or recognitionMaintain platform integrity and prevent fraudComply with legal and record-keeping obligationsWe do not use personal information for unrelated marketing purposes.3. Payment InformationAll payments are processed by third-party payment processors. Independent Minds does not receive or store full payment card details.Payment processing is governed by the privacy policies of the respective payment providers.4. Sharing of InformationWe do not sell, rent, or trade personal information.We may share limited information only:With service providers necessary to operate the platform (e.g., payment processors, form providers)To comply with legal obligations, court orders, or regulatory requirementsTo protect the rights, safety, or integrity of Independent MindsAll service providers are required to handle data in accordance with applicable privacy standards.5. Data RetentionWe retain personal information and submission records for a reasonable period to:Operate participation eventsAddress disputes or inquiriesMaintain internal recordsComply with legal obligationsInformation is not retained longer than necessary for these purposes.6. Your Choices & RightsYou may request access to or deletion of your personal information by contacting us.Requests are subject to:Verification of identityApplicable legal or record-keeping requirementsSome information may need to be retained for compliance or operational reasons.7. SecurityWe take reasonable administrative and technical measures to protect personal information. However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.8. Changes to This PolicyWe may update this Privacy Policy from time to time.Changes will be posted on this page. Continued use of the Website after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.9. ContactIf you have questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle information:Email: [email protected]