Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy describes how WALRUS.FM ("WALRUS.FM," "we," "our," or "us") collects, uses, and protects your personal information when you use our website, mobile app, and related services (collectively, the "Service").

By accessing or using WALRUS.FM, you agree to this Privacy Policy.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information in the following ways:

1.1 Information You Provide

When you register, upload content, or make purchases, we may collect:

• Name, username, and email address
• Billing and payout details (via Stripe Connect)
• Profile images, bios, and links
• Content you upload (music, videos, text, images)
• Messages and communications within the platform

1.2 Information We Automatically Collect

When you use WALRUS.FM, we automatically collect:

• Device and browser type
• IP address and approximate location
• Access times and pages visited
• Cookies, pixels, and similar tracking data for analytics

1.3 Information from Third Parties

We may receive limited information from:

• Stripe Connect (for payment status and account verification)
• Shopify or other partners (for merchandise orders)
• Social media platforms (if you link your accounts)

We do not buy or sell user data from external data brokers.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Operate, maintain, and improve the WALRUS.FM platform
• Process payments, subscriptions, and artist payouts
• Enable artists and fans to communicate and share content
• Personalize your user experience
• Send service updates, technical notices, and security alerts
• Comply with legal obligations and prevent fraud

We do not sell or rent your personal data to advertisers or third parties.

3. How We Share Information

We only share information when necessary to operate the Service or as required by law.

3.1 With Service Providers

We share data with trusted third parties who perform essential functions:

• Stripe for payment processing and payouts
• Shopify for merchandise integration
• Email or cloud providers for notifications and hosting

These providers are bound by confidentiality and data protection obligations.

3.2 With Other Users

When you use WALRUS.FM, certain information may be visible to others:

• Artist name, profile, and uploaded content
• Public comments, posts, or fan interactions

We never share your financial or private data publicly.

3.3 For Legal Reasons

We may disclose data if required by law, subpoena, or court order, or to protect the rights, property, or safety of WALRUS.FM, our users, or the public.

4. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

WALRUS.FM uses cookies and similar tools to:

• Remember your login and preferences
• Analyze site traffic and usage
• Improve performance and security

You can disable cookies in your browser settings, but some features may not function properly.

5. Data Retention

We retain your personal data as long as your account is active or as needed to provide our Service. If you delete your account, we remove or anonymize your data within a reasonable period, except where legal or accounting obligations require retention.

6. Data Security

We use technical and organizational measures to protect your information, including:

• Encryption (HTTPS, TLS) for all transmissions
• Secure payment processing via Stripe Connect
• Access control and monitoring of internal systems

No method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure, but we take all reasonable steps to protect your data.

7. Your Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to:

• Access a copy of your data
• Request correction or deletion
• Object to processing or withdraw consent
• Request data portability

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@walrus.fm. We may need to verify your identity before fulfilling any request.

8. International Data Transfers

WALRUS.FM operates globally. By using the Service, you consent to your information being processed in the United States or other countries where our partners operate. We implement appropriate safeguards, such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs), for international transfers under GDPR.

9. Children's Privacy

WALRUS.FM is not intended for children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal data from minors. If we learn a child under 13 has provided information, we will promptly delete it.

10. California Residents (CCPA/CPRA Notice)

If you are a California resident, you have the right to:

• Request disclosure of what personal data we collect, use, and share.
• Request deletion of your personal data (with limited exceptions).
• Opt out of "selling" or "sharing" of personal data — WALRUS.FM does not sell user data.

You may submit requests to privacy@walrus.fm. We will respond within 45 days as required by law.

11. EU/EEA Residents (GDPR Notice)

If you are located in the European Economic Area:

• The legal basis for processing your data is your consent, the necessity to provide the Service, or our legitimate interests.
• You may withdraw consent at any time by closing your account or emailing us at privacy@walrus.fm.
• You have the right to lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Material changes will be communicated via email or on the site. Your continued use of WALRUS.FM after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised Policy.

13. Contact Us

For privacy-related questions, data requests, or complaints, contact: