Last updated: 5 July 2025

The International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and your rights in relation to your personal data.

1. Information we collect

ICSA collects limited personal information through the following tools and forms:

• Google Analytics – to gather anonymous data on website traffic and user behavior
• Newsletter sign-up forms – to send email updates (via Substack)
• Google Forms – to manage event registrations, working group participation, service provider directory submissions, and contact inquiries
• Microsoft Forms – to manage event registrations, submission forms, contact inquiries, and more
• Zeffy – to process donations and related fundraising communications
• Cookies and tracking technologies – to enhance the functionality and performance of our website

We do not collect sensitive personal data by default. However, some forms (e.g., for working groups or service providers) may include questions asking your personal experience with cults. This could be considered sensitive information. Such data is collected voluntarily and treated with confidentiality.

2. How we use your information

We use the information you provide to:

• Send newsletters and updates (only if you opt in)
• Improve our website, resources, and communication efforts
• Register and communicate with participants in ICSA events or working groups
• Maintain our directory of service providers
• Conduct internal research and reporting in anonymized or aggregated form

3. Data sharing and storage

We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties, except as necessary to operate core services, including:

• Google Analytics (website traffic analysis)
• Google Forms (data collection for events and programs)
  Substack (newsletter distribution)
• Microsoft Forms (data collection for publishing)
• Zeffy (donation processing and donor communications)
  SiteGround (website hosting)

ICSA administrators may temporarily download data (e.g., Google Form responses) into Google Sheets or Excel files for processing, such as to analyze participant demographics or identify patterns in event interest. This data is stored securely in designated Google Drive folders with access limited to authorized ICSA administrative personnel.

ICSA does not store personal data locally on individual devices.

4. Cookies and tracking

ICSA uses cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your user experience and monitor website usage. When you visit our website, you will be presented with a cookie consent banner allowing you to manage or disable cookies.
You can also adjust your browser settings to reject cookies or notify you when they are in use.

5. Your rights

Depending on your location, you may have rights under applicable data protection laws, including the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you
• Request corrections or updates
• Request deletion of your personal data

If you wish to exercise these rights, please contact:

Jackie Johnson
Email: jackiejohnson@internationalculticstudies.org
Subject: Data Privacy Request

Please note: Most of the data we collect is handled by third-party service providers (e.g., Substack, Google, Zeffy). You may need to manage your data directly through their platforms (e.g., unsubscribing from a newsletter or deleting Google Form submissions). We will assist where possible.

6. International users

ICSA is a US-based nonprofit organization with international users and contributors. By using our website or submitting your information, you consent to the processing of your data in the United States or by our authorized third-party service providers, in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

7. Changes to this policy

We may revise this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date.