Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for USMLE News website


Effective Date: December 25, 2024

Introduction USMLE News (“we,” “our,” or “us”) values your privacy and is committed to safeguarding your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines the types of information we collect, how we use it, the measures we take to protect it, and your rights regarding that information. By accessing or using our website [usmlenews.org] (the “Website”), you agree to the terms and practices described in this policy. If you do not agree with any aspect of this policy, please discontinue use of the Website.

1. Information We Collect

1.1. Personal Information We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when you:

  • Register an account
  • Subscribe to our newsletter or mailing lists
  • Participate in surveys, promotions, or events
  • Request information or customer support
  • Submit content or feedback

The types of personal information we collect may include:

  • Full Name
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Postal address
  • Username and password
  • Professional details, including educational background and affiliations
  • Any other information you choose to provide

1.2. Non-Personal Information In addition to personal information, we collect non-personal information automatically as you navigate the Website. This information includes but is not limited to:

  • IP address
  • Browser type and version
  • Operating system details
  • Date and time of visit
  • Pages viewed and time spent on each page
  • Referring and exit pages
  • Clickstream data
  • Internet service provider (ISP)
  • Device identifiers

This data is collected through cookies, server logs, and other tracking technologies.

1.3. Cookies and Tracking Technologies Cookies and tracking technologies are essential tools we use to improve the Website’s functionality and user experience. Cookies are small files stored on your device that help us recognize returning visitors and analyze their behavior.

Types of Cookies We Use:

  • Essential Cookies: Required for basic website operation
  • Performance Cookies: Monitor how users interact with the Website
  • Functionality Cookies: Remember your preferences and settings
  • Targeting/Advertising Cookies: Deliver relevant advertisements

You can modify your cookie preferences through your browser settings. Note that disabling cookies may limit access to certain Website features.

2. How We Use Your Information We utilize the information collected to:

  • Provide and personalize services and content
  • Communicate with you regarding updates, promotions, and newsletters
  • Facilitate participation in interactive features
  • Conduct research and analysis to improve the Website
  • Ensure the security and integrity of the Website
  • Detect and prevent fraudulent activity
  • Comply with applicable legal obligations

Additional Uses:

  • Manage your user account
  • Respond to comments and questions
  • Administer contests, sweepstakes, or surveys
  • Tailor advertisements to suit user interests
  • Develop and improve products and services

3. Disclosure of Your Information We do not sell or rent your personal information to third parties. However, certain circumstances necessitate the disclosure of your information:

  • With Service Providers: We share data with trusted third parties who perform functions on our behalf, such as web hosting, analytics, and email delivery.
  • For Legal and Safety Purposes: We may disclose information if required by law, or if we believe it necessary to prevent harm, fraud, or illegal activities.
  • Business Transfers: If USMLE News is involved in a merger, acquisition, or sale, personal information may be transferred as part of the transaction.
  • With Consent: We may share your information with third parties if you provide explicit consent.

4. Data Security We employ robust technical, administrative, and physical security measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. Security practices include:

  • Data encryption during transmission
  • Firewalls and secure servers
  • Restricted access to personal data
  • Regular security audits and updates

Despite these efforts, no security system is completely infallible. We encourage users to practice caution and protect their personal information.

5. Third-Party Links Our Website may contain links to external websites not operated by USMLE News. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third parties. We recommend reviewing their privacy policies before submitting personal information.

6. Your Rights and Choices You have the following rights concerning your personal information:

  • Access and Portability: Request a copy of the information we hold about you
  • Correction: Update or correct inaccurate information
  • Deletion: Request the deletion of your data under certain conditions
  • Restriction of Processing: Limit the use of your data
  • Objection: Object to certain uses of your data, including marketing
  • Withdraw Consent: Revoke previously granted consent at any time

To exercise these rights, contact us at [support@usmlenews.org]. We may verify your identity before processing requests.

7. Children’s Privacy USMLE News is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from minors. If we become aware of such collection, we will promptly delete the data.

8. International Data Transfers Your information may be processed outside your country of residence. By using the Website, you consent to the transfer of your data to countries that may have different data protection laws.

9. Retention of Data We retain personal information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy. Factors influencing retention periods include:

  • Legal obligations
  • Ongoing customer relationships
  • Security and fraud prevention needs

When information is no longer needed, we securely delete or anonymize it.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time. Updates will be posted on the Website with the revised effective date. Continued use of the Website signifies acceptance of the updated terms.

11. Contact Us If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please reach out to us at:

USMLE News
Email: support@usmlenews.org

Thank you for trusting USMLE News to protect your privacy.