RetroWikipedia:Privacy policy
Privacy Policy
Effective date: 27 July 2025
RetroWikipedia values your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy Policy explains what we collect, how we use it, and your rights in accordance with global data protection laws, including the GDPR (EU), CCPA (California), and other applicable regulations.
Who We Are
RetroWikipedia is an independent, community-run wiki dedicated to preserving the history of computing and technology from the 1970s–2010s and related retro/vintage content. Our site is hosted and maintained by Vanguard Media LLC in Fort Smith, Arkansas, USA.
What We Collect
Automatically Collected Data
When you visit RetroWikipedia, our servers automatically log basic information such as:
- Your IP address
- Browser type and version
- Operating system
- Referrer URL
- Date and time of access
- Pages visited
This data is used for technical troubleshooting, abuse prevention, and statistical analysis.
Account and Contribution Data
If you create an account or contribute to the site, we may store:
- Your username and email address (if provided)
- Your edits and public contributions
- User preferences and settings
- Messages you post publicly (e.g., on talk pages)
We do not require real names or sensitive personal data to participate.
Donation and Contact Data
If you choose to support us via Patreon, donate hardware/software, or contact us directly, we may receive:
- Your name and contact information
- Mailing/shipping details
- Any messages or files you send us
Payment information is handled by third-party services (e.g., Patreon) and not stored on our servers.
How We Use Data
We use the collected data to:
- Maintain and improve the site
- Monitor abuse, spam, and vandalism
- Ensure compliance with our rules
- Communicate with users (e.g., password resets, inquiries)
- Acknowledge and process donations or content contributions
We never sell your data or use it for advertising purposes.
Cookies
RetroWikipedia may use cookies to:
- Keep you logged in
- Remember your editing preferences
- Analyze anonymous traffic patterns (via privacy-focused analytics)
You can disable cookies in your browser, but some features may not function properly.
Legal Basis for Processing
We process your data under the following legal bases:
- Your consent (e.g., when registering or donating)
- Legitimate interests (site functionality, moderation)
- Compliance with legal obligations (if required by law)
Data Sharing
We do not sell or share your data with third parties, except:
- With your explicit consent
- If required by law or legal process
- To protect the rights and safety of RetroWikipedia, its users, or the public
Your Rights
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:
- Access the data we hold about you
- Correct or delete your personal information
- Withdraw consent at any time
- Object to certain types of processing
- Lodge a complaint with a data protection authority
To make a request, contact us at: contact [at] retrowikipedia.org (or your chosen address)
Data Retention
- Public contributions are retained indefinitely for historical integrity.
- Logs and analytics data may be retained for up to 12 months.
- User accounts may be anonymized upon request.
International Users
By using this site, you consent to the processing and storage of your data in the United States. We strive to respect all applicable international privacy laws.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in law or our practices. Significant changes will be announced on the main page or user talk pages.
Contact Us
For questions or concerns, please contact:
Vanguard Media LLC c/o RetroWikipedia 2009 South 71st St Fort Smith, AR 72903 USA
Email: contact [at] retrowikipedia.org
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Thank you for helping preserve the history of technology.