Privacy Policy

The Network Theory Applied Research Institute, Inc. ("NTARI") is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring the security of your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect information when you interact with our website (NTARI.org), participate in our programs, or communicate with us through various channels.

Special Notice for Parents: If you are considering allowing your child (under 18) to participate in NTARI programs or use our platforms, please review our comprehensive Children's Privacy and Parental Guidance section below, which includes important safety recommendations for protecting your child's privacy and ensuring appropriate supervision of their online activities.

This policy implements the comprehensive data protection standards established in NTARI Bylaws Article IX and demonstrates our commitment to privacy-first operations that serve community needs without surveillance or commercial exploitation.

IMPORTANT: Third-Party Platform Notice

NTARI.org is built on the Wix platform. When you use our website and Member Channel, you are subject to both NTARI's privacy protections AND Wix's data collection practices.

What This Means for You

Dual Privacy Policies Apply:

NTARI's Privacy Policy (this document) governs how NTARI handles your information
Wix's Privacy Policy governs how Wix collects and processes your data as the platform provider

Data Collection Beyond NTARI's Control: When you visit NTARI.org or use our Member Channel, Wix automatically collects:

IP addresses and location data
Browser type, version, and device information
Website usage analytics and behavioral data
Cookies and tracking technologies
Technical performance data

NTARI's Limited Control:

We cannot prevent Wix from collecting this data
We cannot control how Wix uses, stores, or shares this information
We cannot provide user rights (access, deletion, etc.) for data held by Wix
Wix's data practices may change independently of NTARI's policies

Your Privacy Choices

Review Wix's Privacy Policy: You can find Wix's current privacy policy at https://www.wix.com/about/privacy

Platform Alternatives: We are evaluating migration to more privacy-focused platforms and welcome community input on this priority

Contact Us: If you have specific concerns about third-party data collection, contact our Privacy Officer at info@ntari.org

Enhanced Protections: NTARI implements additional privacy safeguards within our technical capabilities, but cannot override Wix's fundamental platform data collection

Article IX Bylaws Implementation

This Privacy Policy operates under the comprehensive data protection framework established in NTARI Bylaws Article IX, ensuring:

Privacy by Design Architecture

All NTARI systems incorporate privacy protections at the architectural level rather than as optional features, ensuring baseline protection cannot be circumvented by users, administrators, or external pressures, within the constraints of our current platform infrastructure.

Prohibited Practices

NTARI formally prohibits:

Commercial Data Exploitation: No monetization of user data or behavioral information by NTARI
Surveillance Integration: No voluntary cooperation with surveillance systems beyond legally required compliance
Discriminatory Profiling: No categorization or targeting based on protected characteristics by NTARI
Voluntary Law Enforcement Collaboration: Cooperation only when compelled by valid legal process, with user notification when legally permissible

Enhanced Community Protections

Community members facing heightened surveillance risks receive additional technical safeguards and policy protections appropriate to their specific risk profiles, with individual risk assessment options available without requiring disclosure of specific vulnerability categories.

Information We Collect

Information Collected Directly by NTARI

Account Information: Name, email address, and other details you provide when joining our Member Channel or participating in volunteer programs
Communication Data: Information shared through messages, emails, or other correspondence with NTARI
Volunteer Information: Time tracking data, project participation, and contributions to NTARI programs
Governance Participation: Records of democratic participation in organizational governance, voting records, and policy input

Information Collected by Wix Platform

Automatically Collected by Wix:

System Data: IP address, browser type, device information, and cookies when you use our website
Platform Analytics: Comprehensive usage patterns, page views, session duration, and behavioral tracking
Security Monitoring: Technical data collected by Wix for platform security and fraud prevention
Performance Data: Load times, error reports, and technical performance metrics

Wix Data Practices: NTARI does not control Wix's collection, use, storage, or sharing of this information. Refer to Wix's privacy policy for details about their data practices.

Data Minimization Principle - Clarified

NTARI minimizes data collection that we directly control to what is necessary for educational functionality and legal compliance. However, users should understand that platform providers like Wix collect additional data beyond NTARI's control. Users maintain control over data within NTARI's systems, but have limited control over third-party platform data collection.

How We Collect Information

Direct Submission to NTARI

Information you voluntarily provide when joining our channels, volunteering, or contacting NTARI, including governance participation and community contribution activities.

Platform-Mediated Collection

Through Wix Platform: When you use NTARI.org, Wix automatically collects technical and usage data according to their privacy policy. NTARI receives limited analytics data from Wix but does not control the full scope of Wix's data collection.

Third-Party Integration: Information provided through other platforms we use for meetings (e.g., Zoom) or communications (e.g., WhatsApp, Spaces App). Each platform has its own data collection practices beyond NTARI's control.

Community Interaction

Information shared through community participation, peer review processes, collective intelligence activities, and democratic governance participation, with appropriate privacy protections for all community interactions within NTARI's technical capabilities.

How We Use Your Information

NTARI uses information under our direct control solely for educational and organizational purposes:

Educational Mission Support

Facilitating your participation in our programs and initiatives
Managing volunteer activities and channel assignments
Supporting community-based learning and peer review processes
Enabling collective intelligence demonstrations and cooperative research

Governance and Accountability

Supporting democratic participation in organizational governance
Maintaining voting records and policy input documentation
Facilitating transparency in organizational decision-making
Enabling member oversight and accountability mechanisms

Platform Operations

Improving our website and services based on user needs within technical constraints
Ensuring security and protecting community members to the extent possible
Complying with legal obligations and regulatory requirements
Supporting technical infrastructure and system maintenance

Cooperative Development

Supporting research and development of cooperative technologies
Demonstrating network theory applications in practice
Contributing to open-source development and community benefit
Advancing NTARI's mission as a radar station broadcasting coordination systems

No Commercial Exploitation by NTARI: We do not and will never sell your personal information or use it for commercial advertising purposes. Data sharing occurs only to fulfill essential services in line with this policy and organizational mission.

Third-Party Commercial Use: NTARI cannot control how platform providers like Wix may use collected data for their commercial purposes. Refer to their privacy policies for details.

Information Sharing

Limited Sharing Framework - NTARI Data Only

We handle all personally identifiable information (PII) under NTARI's direct control with discretion and limit sharing to:

Internal Operations:

NTARI staff, board members, and Volunteer Information Managers who need access to fulfill their roles
Community moderators and governance facilitators with appropriate training and oversight
Technical volunteers requiring access for platform maintenance and security within our capabilities

Service Providers:

Trusted third-party service providers who help us operate our programs with appropriate data protection agreements in place
Technical infrastructure providers with contractual privacy protections and limited access scope

Legal Requirements:

Situations where we're required by law or court order, with user notification when legally permissible
Emergency situations to protect our legal rights or prevent immediate harm to individuals

Platform Provider Data Sharing

Wix Platform Sharing: NTARI cannot control Wix's data sharing practices. Wix may share your data according to their privacy policy, which includes sharing with their business partners, service providers, and in response to legal requests.

Community Control and Transparency

Volunteers may request a summary or deletion of their participation logs within NTARI's systems, subject to essential recordkeeping needs
Community members receive notification of any changes to NTARI's data sharing practices
Regular transparency reporting on data requests received by NTARI and organizational responses

Federated System Autonomy

Regional and local communities operating NTARI systems retain absolute authority to reject data sharing requests and implement technical measures to resist surveillance, maintaining data sovereignty appropriate to their community needs, within platform constraints.

Communication Channels and Associated Risks

NTARI Backend and Wix Platform

When using our Member Channel on NTARI.org through the Wix platform, your information is subject to Wix's privacy practices in addition to our own protections. Wix collects extensive data that NTARI cannot control or protect.

Email and WhatsApp Communications

We may use email and WhatsApp for organizational communications. Please be aware that:

These platforms may use tracking technologies and cookies beyond NTARI's control
WhatsApp (owned by Meta) collects and processes data according to its own privacy policy
Email communications are generally not encrypted unless specifically configured
We implement additional protections where possible and provide guidance on secure communication options

Community Platform Communications

NTARI community platforms implement enhanced privacy protections within technical constraints
Community discussions benefit from moderation and privacy-focused design
Members can control their level of participation and information sharing within platform limitations
Community standards protect member privacy while enabling collaborative learning

Data Security

Technical Implementation Standards - NTARI Systems

We implement comprehensive technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information within systems under NTARI's direct control:

NTARI System Security:

All staff access systems through encrypted HTTPS protocols where technically possible
Regular security monitoring and automated threat detection within our capabilities
Secure data transmission and storage with appropriate encryption when available
Technical barriers preventing unauthorized access and data breaches within our control

Platform Security Limitations: NTARI cannot guarantee the security of data held by platform providers like Wix. Platform security depends on third-party providers' practices and standards.

Privacy Protection Infrastructure - Within Constraints

End-to-end encryption where technically feasible given platform limitations
Secure storage with appropriate access controls and audit trails for NTARI-controlled data
Communication protocols that resist interception and surveillance within technical constraints
Anonymization and pseudonymization with technical barriers preventing re-identification where possible

Ongoing Protection

Weekly review of data protection measures to maintain high security standards within our capabilities
Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments for NTARI-controlled systems
Incident response procedures with prompt community notification for NTARI-related incidents
Continuous improvement based on emerging privacy protection technologies and platform constraints

Organizational Safeguards

Limiting access to personal information to authorized individuals with demonstrated need
Comprehensive data handling training for all staff and volunteers
Clear policies and procedures for secure information transfer and storage within our control
Regular compliance monitoring and policy enforcement mechanisms

Your Privacy Rights

Comprehensive User Rights - NTARI Data

You have extensive rights regarding personal information under NTARI's direct control:

Information Access and Control:

Access the personal information NTARI holds about you
Request correction of inaccurate information with prompt processing
Request deletion of your information where appropriate and legally permissible
Object to specific processing activities including automated decision-making by NTARI

Third-Party Platform Rights: For data held by Wix and other platform providers, you must exercise rights directly with those providers according to their policies and procedures.

Communication and Participation

Opt out of certain communications while maintaining essential account functions
Control your level of community participation and information sharing within platform constraints
Manage your governance participation and voting privacy settings where technically possible
Submit concerns about our privacy practices with guaranteed response

Data Portability and Transfer - Limited by Platform

Export your data from NTARI systems in machine-readable formats where technically feasible
Transfer your information to other platforms when technically possible given current platform constraints
Maintain copies of your contributions and participation history within technical limitations
Receive clear documentation of NTARI's data processing activities

Enhanced Rights for Vulnerable Communities

Community members facing heightened surveillance risks can access additional protections including enhanced security measures, specialized privacy guidance, and elevated protection protocols appropriate to individual risk profiles, within current technical constraints.

Exercise of Rights

To exercise these rights, please contact our Privacy Officer at info@ntari.org. We respond to all privacy rights requests within 30 days and provide clear documentation of actions taken. Note: We can only process rights requests for data under NTARI's direct control.

Children's Privacy and Parental Guidance

Age Requirements and Verification

NTARI programs and websites are designed for users aged 13 and older. We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13 without verifiable parental consent. If you believe we have inadvertently collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately for prompt removal.

For children aged 13-17, we strongly recommend parental involvement and supervision of all online activities.

Essential Parental Guidance for Teen Participation

IMPORTANT PLATFORM WARNING: When your teenager uses NTARI.org, they are also subject to Wix's data collection practices, which include tracking, analytics, and behavioral data collection that NTARI cannot control or prevent.

If you choose to allow your teenager (13-17) to participate in NTARI programs, please implement these critical safety measures:

Privacy Protection Strategies

Identity Protection:

Never use real names: Create usernames that do not reveal your child's real name, school, or location
No real photos: Avoid using actual photographs of your child as profile pictures; use abstract images, initials, or cartoon avatars instead
Location privacy: Do not share specific geographic information, school names, or local landmarks
Contact information security: Never share phone numbers, addresses, or other contact information beyond the supervised email account

Account Management and Supervision

Active Monitoring Requirements:

Direct supervision: Monitor all online activities, communications, and content interactions
Shared account access: Maintain login credentials and regularly review account activity
Communication oversight: Review all messages, forum posts, and community interactions
Time limitations: Establish clear time limits for online participation and enforce them consistently

Safe Participation Guidelines

Community Interaction Boundaries:

Public spaces only: Limit participation to public forums and avoid private messaging
No personal information sharing: Teach your child never to share personal details, schedules, or family information
Report inappropriate contact: Immediately report any attempts by others to gather personal information or suggest private communication
Educational focus: Keep interactions focused on educational content and avoid personal relationship building

Technical Safety Measures

Device and Network Security:

Secure browsing: Use family-safe browsers with appropriate filters and monitoring
Regular security updates: Maintain current security software and system updates
Shared devices: Use family computers in common areas rather than private devices
Network monitoring: Implement home network monitoring to track online activity
Platform awareness: Understand that Wix collects data about your child's browsing behavior

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Immediate Concerns Requiring Action:

Anyone requesting personal information, photos, or contact details
Attempts to move conversations to private platforms or messaging systems
Requests for in-person meetings or location sharing
Inappropriate content or conversations of a personal nature
Pressure to keep online relationships secret from parents
Any communication that makes your child uncomfortable

Educational Benefits and Learning Opportunities

Supervised Educational Participation Can Provide:

Critical thinking development: Structured training in logical reasoning and analysis
Scientific literacy: Exposure to evidence-based thinking and research methodology
Cooperative learning: Experience with community-based knowledge development
Digital citizenship: Training in responsible online participation and communication
Democratic participation: Age-appropriate introduction to governance and collective decision-making

Parental Responsibility and Legal Compliance

Parent/Guardian Requirements:

Ongoing supervision: Continuous monitoring is required, not just initial setup
Regular communication: Discuss online experiences and learning with your child
Immediate intervention: Be prepared to restrict or terminate access if concerns arise
Contact with NTARI: Maintain communication with NTARI staff about your child's participation
Legal compliance: Ensure all activities comply with local laws regarding minors' online participation
Platform risks: Understand and accept risks associated with third-party platform data collection

NTARI's Commitments to Child Safety

Organizational Protections:

Enhanced monitoring: Additional oversight for known minor participants within our capabilities
Immediate response: Rapid response to any safety concerns or inappropriate contact
Educational focus: Content and interactions maintained at educational rather than social levels
Professional standards: Staff and volunteer training in appropriate interaction with minors
Transparent policies: Clear guidelines for community members regarding interaction with minors
Platform limitations: Clear communication about our limited control over third-party platform data practices

Reporting and Support

If You Have Concerns:

Immediate contact: Report safety concerns to info@ntari.org immediately
Detailed documentation: Provide screenshots, usernames, and specific incident details
Follow-up support: We provide ongoing support and follow-up on all safety concerns
External resources: We can provide referrals to additional child safety and digital citizenship resources

Remember: Your child's safety is the highest priority. When in doubt, restrict access and contact NTARI staff for guidance. Be aware that platform providers collect data about your child that NTARI cannot control.

Recommended Privacy Protection Measures

To enhance your privacy when interacting with NTARI and online generally, we recommend:

Tracking Protection

Consider using privacy-focused browsers or extensions like DuckDuckGo's Privacy Essentials
Enable "Do Not Track" settings in your browser (though effectiveness varies by platform)
Regularly clear cookies and browsing history
Use browser privacy modes for sensitive activities
Note: These measures may have limited effectiveness on platforms like Wix that implement comprehensive tracking

Communication Security

Consider using encrypted email solutions for sensitive communications
Be aware of the privacy policies of all communication platforms we use (Zoom, WhatsApp, Wix, etc.)
Use secure messaging applications for confidential discussions outside of platform channels
Implement strong, unique passwords for all accounts

Enhanced Privacy Measures

Consider using a VPN service for additional privacy protection (may not prevent platform data collection)
Regular review of privacy settings across all platforms
Limit sharing of personal information in community discussions
Use privacy-focused search engines and communication tools
Understand limitations: Many privacy measures cannot prevent data collection by platforms like Wix

Policy Updates and Transparency

Regular Policy Review

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices, legal requirements, platform capabilities, or organizational development. Significant changes will be communicated through:

Member notification: Direct communication to all community members
Public posting: Updated policy posted on NTARI.org with effective date
Community discussion: Opportunity for community input on significant privacy policy changes
Board oversight: Privacy policy changes reviewed by Board of Directors

Transparency Reporting

In accordance with Bylaws Article IX, NTARI publishes annual transparency reports documenting:

Data protection implementation: Technical and policy measures implemented within our capabilities
Legal requests received: Government or legal requests for user information received by NTARI
Privacy incidents: Any data breaches or privacy violations and response measures within our control
System improvements: Enhancements made to privacy protection and user rights within platform constraints
Platform limitations: Clear documentation of privacy constraints imposed by third-party platforms

Privacy Officer and Governance

The NTARI Secretary serves as Privacy Officer responsible for:

Policy implementation: Ensuring privacy protection standards are maintained within our capabilities
User rights coordination: Processing privacy rights requests for NTARI-controlled data and ensuring timely response
Compliance monitoring: Regular assessment of privacy practices and regulatory compliance within our control
Community education: Providing privacy protection education and guidance to members, including platform limitations

The Board of Directors reviews privacy policy compliance quarterly and ensures resources necessary for privacy protection implementation are allocated appropriately within organizational and technical constraints.

Contact Information

Privacy Officer Contact

For all privacy-related questions, concerns, or rights requests regarding NTARI's data practices:

Primary Contact: NTARI Privacy Officer (Secretary)

Email: info@ntari.org
Subject Line: "Privacy Policy - [Your Specific Request]"
Response Time: 30 days maximum for all privacy rights requests within NTARI's control

For Third-Party Platform Issues: We can provide guidance, but you may need to contact platform providers directly for data held by their systems.

Organizational Contact

Network Theory Applied Research Institute, Inc.

Address: 1 Dupont Way Suite 4, Louisville, KY 40207
Email: info@ntari.org
Phone: +1 502.885.1367

Emergency Privacy Concerns

For urgent privacy violations or safety concerns:

Immediate Contact: info@ntari.org with "URGENT PRIVACY" in subject line
Child Safety Concerns: Immediate response protocols for any issues involving minors
Security Incidents: Rapid response for data breaches or unauthorized access within our control

Legal Framework and Compliance

This Privacy Policy operates under:

Federal Requirements: Compliance with applicable US federal privacy and data protection laws
State Regulations: Kentucky nonprofit corporation privacy requirements
International Standards: GDPR-level protections for international community members within technical constraints
Organizational Governance: NTARI Bylaws Article IX comprehensive data protection framework
Platform Constraints: Limited by third-party platform provider policies and practices

Version: 3.0 - Third-Party Platform Transparency and Honest Disclosure Edition