Privacy Policy
Last updated:
1. Overview
THE PROTOCOL ("we", "us") operates protocolrating.com. This policy explains what data we collect, why, and how we protect it. We collect the minimum data necessary to operate the Site and improve content quality. We do not sell personal data.
2. Data We Collect
2.1 Analytics Data
We use Google Analytics (GA4) to understand how visitors use the Site. This collects:
- Pages viewed and time on page
- Referral source (how you found us)
- Device type, browser, and operating system
- Approximate geographic location (country/city level, not precise)
- Session duration and interaction events
Google Analytics uses cookies to distinguish unique visitors. IP addresses are anonymized. We do not enable Google Signals, User-ID tracking, or advertising features.
2.2 Server Logs
Our hosting infrastructure (Hetzner, Germany) automatically logs standard HTTP request data: IP address, timestamp, URL requested, HTTP status code, user agent, and referrer. These logs are retained for up to 30 days for security and debugging, then deleted.
2.3 Data We Do Not Collect
We do not collect names, email addresses, health data, payment information, or any data requiring user input. There are no user accounts, forms, newsletters, or login systems on this Site.
3. Cookies
The Site uses the following cookies:
| Cookie | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
_ga | Google Analytics | Distinguish unique visitors | 2 years |
_ga_* | Google Analytics | Persist session state | 2 years |
No advertising cookies, tracking pixels, or third-party marketing scripts are used. You can block cookies via your browser settings — the Site will function normally without them.
4. How We Use Data
Collected data is used exclusively to:
- Understand which content is most useful to readers
- Identify technical issues (broken pages, slow loads)
- Determine which topics to cover based on reader interest
- Ensure site security and prevent abuse
5. Data Sharing
We do not sell, rent, or share personal data with third parties for marketing. Data is shared only with:
- Google Analytics — for usage statistics (subject to Google's privacy policy)
- Hetzner — our hosting provider, which processes server logs as a data processor
6. Data Storage & Security
The Site is hosted on Hetzner infrastructure in Germany. Analytics data is processed by Google. We use HTTPS/TLS encryption for all connections. Server access is restricted to SSH key authentication only.
7. Your Rights (GDPR)
If you are in the EU/EEA, you have the right to:
- Access the personal data we hold about you
- Request correction or deletion of your data
- Object to processing of your data
- Request data portability
- Withdraw consent at any time
In practice, since we collect minimal anonymized data and have no user accounts, most individual data requests are not applicable. If you have concerns, contact us using the information provided on the Site.
8. Children's Privacy
The Site is not directed at children under 16. We do not knowingly collect data from minors. If you believe a child has provided us with personal data, contact us and we will delete it.
9. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy as our practices or applicable laws change. Revisions take effect upon posting with an updated "Last updated" date. We encourage periodic review.
10. Contact
Privacy questions? Reach us at the contact information provided on the Site.