EDGEWATER GAZETTE INC. — PRIVACY POLICY & LEGAL TERMS

Effective Date: 2026 © 2026 Edgewater Gazette Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 

1. Introduction

Edgewater Gazette Inc. (“Edgewater Gazette,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) operates as an independent Florida‑registered media corporation. This Privacy Policy and Legal Terms govern all access to and interaction with:

  • The Edgewater Gazette website

  • All affiliated digital platforms and social media accounts

  • Any newsletters, submission portals, forms, or digital services we provide

By accessing our platforms, you agree to these terms.

 

PRIVACY POLICY

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following categories of information:

2.1 Personal Information (Provided Voluntarily)

  • Name

  • Email address

  • Phone number

  • User‑submitted stories, documents, photos, or videos

  • Messages sent through contact forms or social media

2.2 Automatically Collected Data

  • IP address

  • Browser type and device information

  • Cookies and tracking technologies

  • Analytics data (traffic, engagement, referral sources)

2.3 Sensitive Information

We do not request or knowingly collect sensitive personal information unless voluntarily submitted for reporting purposes. Sensitive submissions are handled with heightened confidentiality.

 

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information for legitimate business purposes, including:

  • Responding to inquiries

  • Publishing community news and investigative reporting

  • Improving website performance and user experience

  • Protecting platform security

  • Verifying the authenticity of submissions

  • Sending newsletters or updates (opt‑in only)

We do not sell or rent personal information to third parties.

 

4. Story Submissions & Source Protection

Edgewater Gazette Inc. follows a community‑first, trauma‑informed reporting standard.

  • Submitters may request anonymity.

  • Sensitive details are verified and handled with discretion.

  • We do not publish identifying information without consent unless required by law.

 

5. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and analytics tools to:

  • Improve site functionality

  • Measure engagement

  • Personalize content delivery

Users may disable cookies in their browser settings, though some features may not function properly.

 

6. Data Security

We implement commercially reasonable safeguards to protect user data. However, no online system is completely secure. By using our site, you acknowledge this risk and agree not to hold Edgewater Gazette liable for breaches beyond our control.

 

7. Children’s Privacy

Our content is intended for a general audience. We do not knowingly collect information from children under age 13. If such data is discovered, it will be deleted promptly.

 

8. Third‑Party Links

Our platforms may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of third‑party sites.

 

LEGAL TERMS OF USE

9. Intellectual Property

All content published by Edgewater Gazette Inc.—including articles, graphics, videos, logos, and proprietary materials—is protected under U.S. and international copyright law.

You may not:

  • Copy

  • Reproduce

  • Republish

  • Distribute

  • Modify

  • Impersonate

  • Use our branding or content without written authorization

Unauthorized use may result in legal action.

 

10. User Conduct

Users agree not to:

  • Interfere with the operation or security of our platforms

  • Submit false, defamatory, or malicious content

  • Attempt to impersonate Edgewater Gazette or its leadership

  • Upload harmful code, bots, or automated scraping tools

Violations may result in access restrictions or legal remedies.

 

11. Accuracy & Liability

While we strive for accuracy and transparency:

  • Content is provided for public awareness and community reporting

  • We make no guarantees regarding completeness or third‑party information

  • We are not liable for damages arising from reliance on published content

 

12. Legal Compliance

We may disclose information if required by:

  • Court order

  • Subpoena

  • Law enforcement request

  • Regulatory mandate

 

13. Changes to This Policy

Edgewater Gazette Inc. may update this Privacy Policy and Legal Terms at any time. Continued use of our platforms constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

 

14. Contact Information

For permissions, legal inquiries, or privacy concerns, contact:

Edgewater Gazette Inc. — Legal Department