Privacy policy

This Privacy Policy describes how Matthew Hardesty (“I,” “me,” “my,” or “Owner”), an individual based in California, USA, collects, uses, and discloses personal information when you visit or interact with matthewhardesty.com (the “Website”).

I am committed to protecting your privacy. This policy applies to information collected through the Website only. By using the Website, you agree to the practices described here.

1. Information I Collect

I collect limited information:

• Information You Provide Voluntarily: If you choose to register or provide details (e.g., name or email address) to download certain files such as my resume, I collect that information to provide the file or respond to your request.
• Automatically Collected Information: When you visit the Website, I (or third-party services I use) may automatically collect:
  • Device and usage data: IP address, browser type, operating system, pages viewed, time/date of access, referring/exit pages, and similar analytics data.
  • Cookies and similar technologies: For site functionality, analytics, advertising, or affiliate tracking.

I do not collect sensitive personal information (e.g., health data, precise geolocation, racial/ethnic origin) unless you voluntarily provide it (which is not requested).

2. How I Use Your Information

I use collected information to:

• Operate, maintain, and improve the Website.
• Provide requested content (e.g., file downloads).
• Analyze site usage and performance (via analytics tools).
• Display relevant advertisements or affiliate links (I may earn commissions from qualifying actions at no extra cost to you).
• Comply with legal obligations or protect my rights.

I do not use your information for automated decision-making or profiling.

3. Sharing and Disclosure of Information

I do not sell your personal information. I may share information in limited circumstances:

• With service providers (e.g., analytics providers like Google Analytics, hosting services) who assist in operating the Website. These providers are contractually obligated to protect your data and use it only for the services they provide.
• If required by law, court order, or to protect the rights, property, or safety of myself or others.
• In connection with a business transfer (unlikely for a personal site).

The Website may contain affiliate links, advertisements, or links to third-party sites. These third parties (e.g., advertisers, affiliate programs) may use cookies/trackers and have their own privacy practices. I am not responsible for their policies or practices—review them directly.

4. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

The Website uses cookies and similar technologies for analytics, advertising, and functionality. You can manage preferences via your browser settings (e.g., block cookies), though this may affect site experience. For more details, see tools like Google Analytics' opt-out (available via their site).

5. Data Security

I implement reasonable measures (e.g., secure hosting, limited access) to protect your information. However, no internet transmission or storage is 100% secure—I cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Data Retention

I retain personal information only as long as necessary for the purposes described (e.g., analytics data typically retained for 14–26 months by providers; download-related info only as needed). I delete or anonymize data when no longer required, or upon request where applicable.

7. Your Privacy Rights (Including for California Residents)

• General Rights: You may request access to, correction of, or deletion of your personal information by contacting me.
• California Residents (CCPA/CPRA): The California Consumer Privacy Act (as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act) provides certain rights if applicable. These may include the right to know what personal information I collect/use/share, request deletion, opt-out of any sale/sharing (I do not sell or share personal information as defined under CCPA), and non-discrimination for exercising rights.
• I do not sell or share personal information for monetary or other valuable consideration.
• To exercise rights, contact me (details below). I will verify requests and respond within required timeframes (e.g., 45 days, extendable).
• Authorized agents may submit requests on your behalf with proof.

For more on CCPA/CPRA, visit the California Attorney General's site.

8. Children's Privacy

The Website is not directed to children under 13. I do not knowingly collect information from children under 13. If I learn I have, I will delete it.

9. International Users

The Website is hosted in the United States. If you access from outside the US, your information may be transferred to and processed in the US, which may have different privacy laws. By using the Website, you consent to this transfer.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

I may update this policy. Changes will be posted here with the new “Last updated” date. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance. Check periodically.

11. Contact Me

For questions, requests, or to exercise rights, contact: