Privacy Policy

Last Updated: November 2025

The Cousteau Society is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled safely and responsibly. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and safeguard information when you visit our website, subscribe to our communications, donate, create an account, or otherwise interact with us.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect personal information in the following ways:

a. Information You Provide

Name
Email address
Mailing address
Phone number
Payment and billing information (processed securely by third-party payment providers)
Donation history or membership information
Communication preferences
Messages or inquiries sent through contact forms or email

b. Information Automatically Collected

When you visit our website, standard data may be automatically collected, including:

IP address
Browser type and device information
Pages viewed and site navigation behavior
Cookies or similar tracking technologies

This information is used only to improve the website, analytics, and user experience.

2. How We Use Your Information

We may use the information we collect to:

Process donations, memberships, or transactions
Send receipts, acknowledgments, or donor tax letters
Respond to inquiries or provide requested support
Send newsletters, updates, or marketing content (only if you opt in)
Improve our website, services, and communication
Protect against fraudulent activity

We do not sell, rent, or share personal information with third-party marketers.

3. Donor Privacy

Donor information is kept private and confidential. We do not disclose donor information to outside parties except:

To trusted third-party payment processors (e.g., Stripe, PayPal) for secure transactions
When required by law, court order, or government request
With explicit permission from the donor

We never sell or trade donor personal information.

4. Email Communications & Opt-Out

If you subscribe to our newsletters or updates, you may receive periodic emails. You may unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the email or contacting us directly. We will honor opt-out requests promptly.

5. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Our website may use cookies or similar tools to enhance your experience. You may adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies, though some website features may not function properly.

6. Children’s Privacy

Our site is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect or store personal information from children without parental consent.

7. Data Security

We take reasonable measures to safeguard personal data, including encryption, secure connections, and restricted access to personal information. However, no internet transmission or storage system can be guaranteed 100% secure.

8. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party sites (such as social media, partner organizations, or donation platforms). This Privacy Policy does not apply to those websites. We encourage you to review their policies before providing personal information.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy occasionally to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The “Last Updated” date will be revised accordingly.