Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: March 2025. The Decoy Project (“we,” “us,” “our”) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Florida. This Privacy Policy describes how we collect, use, and protect information when you use our website at https://thedecoyproject.org and related services.

Information we collect

We may collect information you provide directly, such as when you contact us (e.g., email, name, message content), sign up to volunteer, or make a donation. When you donate through our website, payment processing is handled by Stripe. We do not store your full payment card details on our servers; Stripe collects and processes that information in accordance with their own privacy policy.

We may automatically collect certain technical information when you visit our site, such as IP address, browser type, device type, and pages visited. We may use cookies or similar technologies to improve site functionality and experience; you can adjust your browser settings to limit or block cookies.

How we use your information

We use the information we collect to respond to your inquiries, process donations, communicate about volunteering and our programs, improve our website and services, and comply with applicable laws. We do not sell your personal information.

Donations and Stripe

Donations are processed by Stripe. Stripe’s collection and use of your payment and related data is governed by Stripe’s Privacy Policy. We may receive and retain information from Stripe necessary to process donations, issue receipts, and comply with tax and legal obligations.

Data retention and security

We retain your information only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this policy or as required by law. We take reasonable steps to protect your information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse.

Third-party links

Our website may contain links to third-party sites (e.g., resources, social platforms, Stripe). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites. We encourage you to read their privacy policies.

Children’s privacy

Our website is not directed at children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from individuals under 13. If you believe we have inadvertently collected such information, please contact us so we can delete it.

Changes and contact

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The “Last updated” date at the top will reflect the most recent version. For privacy-related questions or requests, contact us at [email protected].

Terms of Service

Last updated: March 2025. These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your use of the website and services of The Decoy Project (“we,” “us,” “our”), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. By using our website at https://thedecoyproject.org, you agree to these Terms.

Use of the website

You agree to use our website only for lawful purposes and in a way that does not infringe the rights of others or restrict their use of the site. You may not use the site to harass, defame, or harm others; to distribute malware or attempt to gain unauthorized access to our or others’ systems; or to impersonate The Decoy Project or any other person or entity.

Intellectual property

Content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, and materials, is owned by The Decoy Project or our licensors and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not copy, modify, distribute, or use our content for commercial purposes without our prior written permission.

Donations

Donations made through our website are generally non-refundable. The Decoy Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit; donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. We do not provide tax advice; please consult your own advisor. Donations are processed by Stripe; their terms and policies apply to the payment transaction.

Third-party services and links

Our site may link to or integrate with third-party services (e.g., Stripe, Discord, Twitch, external resources). Your use of those services is subject to their respective terms and policies. We are not responsible for the availability, content, or practices of third-party sites or services.

Disclaimer

The information on our website is provided for general informational purposes. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. Our work involves identifying, documenting, and reporting to law enforcement; we do not guarantee outcomes of any investigation or prosecution. If you suspect a child is in danger, contact law enforcement or appropriate authorities directly.

Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Decoy Project and its directors, officers, volunteers, and agents shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or data, arising from your use of or inability to use our website or services.

Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless The Decoy Project and its directors, officers, volunteers, and agents from any claims, damages, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from your use of the website or your violation of these Terms.

Governing law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Florida and the United States, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any dispute relating to these Terms or the website shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Florida.

Changes and contact

We may update these Terms from time to time. The “Last updated” date at the top of this section will reflect the most recent version. Continued use of the website after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms. For questions about these Terms, contact us at [email protected].