User accounts and authorship
On HipWiki, users can edit or create articles without registering for an account, thus being labeled as 'anonymous.' Registered users, however, are recognized by their chosen usernames. Upon registration, users create a confidential password to ensure their account's integrity. Disclosure of passwords or cookies, except where legally required, is strictly prohibited. User accounts, once created, cannot be removed, although usernames might be changed subject to project-specific policies. Users registering via social networks should consider the privacy policies of those platforms, as they differ from HipWiki's.
Purpose of the collection of private information
HipWiki collects personal data primarily to enhance the accountability and security of its projects. This includes minimizing potential abuse and counterproductive behavior. Mechanisms are in place to identify and address issues such as vandalism, harassment, or misuse of multiple accounts. IP addresses may be utilized to trace such activities, shared with users possessing administrative rights. Additionally, HipWiki collects data to provide site statistics and resolve technical issues, keeping raw log data confidential.
Details of data retention
IP addresses and other technical information are collected during page requests or emails to HipWiki servers, similar to standard website practices. While raw logs may be retained, they remain unpublished. When logged-in users edit pages, related IP data is stored temporarily. Session cookies are set for visitors, with more cookies used for logged-in users to maintain their status.
Page history
HipWiki retains edits and contributions indefinitely. Even removed text can be accessed by users with higher privileges. Permanent deletion of information is rare and generally requires legal intervention. User contributions are publicly aggregated, outlining edit times and frequencies.
Reading projects
Data collection for page visits is minimal, akin to standard server logs. While raw log data may include IP addresses, it is not publicly disclosed.
Editing projects
Edits are linked to usernames or IP addresses, with editing histories being publicly available. Under specific circumstances, IP data may be released, especially in cases involving disruptive behavior.
Access:
HipWiki projects are predominantly managed by volunteers with certain users granted special access privileges. Access to sensitive information is governed by specific policies, and sharing such data among privileged users does not constitute distribution.
Advertisements
Third-party vendors, including Google, utilize cookies to serve ads based on prior site visits. Users can opt-out of interest-based advertising through settings.
Release: Policy on Release of Data
HipWiki's policy permits the release of personally identifiable data under specific circumstances, such as legal requests or abuse investigations. The Foundation attempts to notify affected users of legal requests within three business days, provided an email address is available. Users are encouraged to seek legal advice if they wish to contest such requests. Without an email address, notification cannot be ensured.
Disclaimer
HipWiki is committed to protecting user privacy, but cannot guarantee absolute security. Despite efforts to safeguard data, unauthorized access may still occur due to evolving data-mining methods. Users should remain aware of potential risks when participating in HipWiki projects.