Privacy Policy

Last updated: April 8, 2026

Votara ("we", "us", "our") operates the Votara platform at votara.org. This policy explains what data we collect and how we use it.

1. Information We Collect

Account data: Email address, display name, and password hash when you register.
Google OAuth: If you sign in with Google, we receive your Google ID, name, email, and profile picture. We do not access any other Google data.
Facebook interactions: When you react to a Votara post on Facebook, we read your public reaction type (like, love, etc.) to count votes. We do not store your Facebook profile or personal data.
Email subscriptions: If you subscribe to notifications, we store your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time via the link in every email.
Usage data: Pages visited, votes cast, and actions taken within the platform.
Analytics data: We use Google Analytics (GA4) and Facebook Pixel to understand how visitors use the site and to measure advertising effectiveness. See Section 5 for details.

2. How We Use Your Data

To operate your account and authenticate you.
To count votes and determine story outcomes.
To display public content (votes, canon events, recaps).
To send email notifications about new junctions, results, and recaps (if subscribed).
To measure and improve the platform and our advertising.

3. Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data. We may share data with:

Facebook/Meta: We post content to our Facebook Page and read public reactions. The Facebook Pixel on our site sends anonymized browsing data to Meta for ad targeting.
Google: Google Analytics collects anonymized usage data (pages visited, session duration, device type). Google OAuth provides authentication.
Resend: Our email service provider, used to deliver subscription notifications. They process your email address to deliver messages.
Service providers: Hosting (Hetzner), database, and infrastructure providers necessary to operate the platform.

4. Data Retention

Account data is retained while your account is active. Email subscriptions are retained until you unsubscribe. You may request deletion by contacting us at the email below.

5. Cookies & Tracking

We use the following technologies:

localStorage: Stores your authentication token and preferences. Essential for the platform to function.
Google Analytics (GA4): Collects anonymized usage statistics (pages viewed, session duration, device type). Uses cookies set by Google. Data is processed by Google LLC.
Facebook Pixel: Tracks conversions from our Facebook/Instagram advertising. Uses cookies set by Meta. Data is processed by Meta Platforms, Inc.
Cookie consent: Analytics and advertising cookies are only loaded after you accept cookies via our consent banner. You can reject non-essential cookies at any time.

6. Email Notifications

When you subscribe to notifications (via the signup form or your account settings), we send emails about:

New junctions opening (voting starts)
Voting results (winner announced)
New recap videos published

Every email includes an unsubscribe link. You can also unsubscribe from your account settings or by emailing us.

7. Your Rights

Under GDPR and applicable laws, you have the right to:

Access your personal data
Correct inaccurate data
Request deletion of your data
Object to processing (opt out of analytics/tracking)
Withdraw consent for cookies at any time

To exercise these rights, email us at the address below.

8. Children

Votara is not intended for users under 13. We do not knowingly collect data from children.

9. Changes

We may update this policy. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated date.

10. Contact

Questions? Email: [email protected]