Last updated: January 03, 2026
42ZERO runs on Ghost, an independent publishing platform built for writers, creators, and digital thinkers. We respect your privacy and believe data should be transparent, minimal, and user-controlled. This policy explains what we collect, why we collect it, and how we protect it.
1. What We Collect
We only collect the data necessary to keep 42ZERO running and connected with its readers.
a. Information you provide
- Email address — when you subscribe to our newsletter or become a member.
- Payment details — if you choose a paid plan or donation. All transactions are processed securely via Stripe; 42ZERO never stores your credit card data.
- Messages or forms — when you contact us directly through email or embedded forms.
b. Information collected automatically
- Cookies — used for login sessions, site preferences, and minimal analytics.
- Analytics data — we use privacy-friendly analytics (GA4 or Ghost native analytics) to understand readership patterns without tracking individuals.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your data to:
- Send newsletters and updates you’ve subscribed to.
- Manage your membership access.
- Improve site content and performance.
- Keep 42ZERO sustainable through reader support and ads.
We never sell or rent your information. Ever.
3. Email and Membership
When you subscribe, you’ll receive occasional updates, stories, or editorial digests. Every email includes an unsubscribe link. Once you unsubscribe, your email is permanently removed from our system.
4. Security
- 42ZERO uses HTTPS encryption and secure Ghost hosting.
- Payments are processed only through Stripe’s encrypted gateway.
- We do not store sensitive payment or password data on our servers.
5. Third-Party Services
42ZERO may use:
- Self-hosted Ghost for publishing
- Stripe for secure payments
- Google Analytics for site metrics
- Mailgun email service for newsletters
Each provider handles data under their own privacy terms.
6. Advertising & Ad Partners
42ZERO uses advertising to help keep the site sustainable. Our advertising partner is Google AdSense.
Google AdSense
Google AdSense may use cookies, web beacons, or similar technologies to display ads that are relevant to users. Data collected may include:
- IP address
- Browser, device, and operating system information
- Ad impressions, clicks, and interactions
- General usage and performance metrics
Google may use DoubleClick cookies to serve ads based on a user’s visit to this and other websites. These ads are non-personalized or personalized depending on user consent and regional regulations.
Users can manage ad personalization or opt out via their browser settings or Google’s ad settings.
Google Privacy Policy: (Search “Google Privacy Policy” — direct URL avoided for compliance.)
7. Your Rights
GDPR (EU/EEA Users)
If you are located in the EU or EEA, you have the right to:
- Access the personal data we hold about you
- Request correction or deletion
- Request data portability
- Object to processing or withdraw consent at any time
- Lodge a complaint with your local Data Protection Authority
To exercise any GDPR rights, email us at: 📧 rottie@42zero.org
CCPA (California Users)
If you are a California resident, you have the right to:
- Know what personal information we collect and how it’s used
- Request deletion of your personal information
- Opt-out of the sale or sharing of personal information (we do not sell data)
- Non-discrimination for exercising your rights
To submit a CCPA request, email: 📧 rottie@42zero.org
Data Deletion
You can request complete deletion of your email, membership data, and analytics identifiers at any time.
Children’s Privacy
42ZERO is not intended for children under 13 and does not knowingly collect data from minors.
8. Changes
We may revise this Privacy Policy periodically. Any updates will appear here with a new date. Continued use of the site means you accept the updated terms.
9. Contact
Questions about privacy or data use?
📧 rottie@42zero.org