At DesertID (operating as part of the DesertID Foundation and DesertID FZCO), we are committed to the highest standards of data sovereignty and privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you interact with our website, consulting services, and decentralized identity protocol.

1. Data Philosophy

As a provider of decentralized identity solutions, our core philosophy is "Privacy by Design." We believe that users should maintain ownership of their data. Unlike traditional centralized platforms, our protocol is designed to minimize the data we store on our servers.

2. Information We Collect

We collect information in two primary ways:

• Voluntary Information: This includes names, email addresses, and professional details provided when you contact us for consulting, subscribe to our journal, or apply for "Prestige Identity" (DesertID Black) membership.

• Technical Information: When you visit our site, we may collect metadata such as IP addresses, browser types, and usage patterns to optimize our platform’s performance.

• Biotechnological & Research Data: For clients engaged in specific research or biotechnology consulting, any data handled is governed by strict, project-specific Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and is never used for general marketing.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the collected information to:

• Deliver consulting, design, and research services.

• Process applications for exclusive memberships and identity tiers.

• Maintain the security and integrity of the DesertID protocol.

• Communicate updates regarding our methodology and technology infrastructure.

4. Decentralized Data & Blockchain

Please note that our services utilize a decentralized identity protocol. While we strive for maximum privacy, data recorded on a public or permissioned blockchain is immutable. We advise users to never share sensitive personal information (PII) directly on-chain unless it is through an encrypted, zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) framework as specified in our technical documentation.

5. Data Sharing & Third Parties

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share data only under the following circumstances:

• Service Providers: Trusted partners who assist in operating our website or conducting our business, provided they agree to keep this information confidential.

• Legal Compliance: When required to comply with the laws of British Columbia, Canada, or the regulatory frameworks of the DMCC.

6. Security

We implement a variety of advanced security measures, including encryption and decentralized storage protocols, to maintain the safety of your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure.

7. Your Rights

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have the right to access, correct, or delete your personal data. Given our decentralized nature, some data associated with your "Prestige Identity" may be controlled via your private keys, meaning only you have the power to modify or revoke access to it.

8. Changes to This Policy

DesertID reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. We will notify users of significant changes by updating the "Last updated" date at the top of this page.

9. Contact Us

If you have questions regarding this Privacy Policy or our data handling practices, please reach out to our privacy team through our team@desertid.io.