Last updated: 20 December 2025
Introduction
BOUS (Bank of Ukrainian Stories) ("BOUS", "we", "us") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting personal data.
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal data when you access or use the BOUS platform.
For the purposes of applicable data protection laws, BOUS acts as the data controller in relation to the processing of personal data described in this Privacy Policy.
Who This Policy Applies To
users who share personal stories on BOUS ("Users – Storytellers")
users seeking stories for storytelling purposes ("Users – Seeking Stories")
visitors of the BOUS website
Personal Data We Collect
Depending on how you use BOUS, we may collect the following categories of personal data.
Data you provide directly
name or chosen identifier
email address
profile information
story descriptions or submitted content
communications sent to us
Data generated through platform use
login and session data
interaction data (such as profile views and connections)
preferences related to cookies and communication
Technical data
IP address
browser and device information
cookies and similar technologies
Purposes and Legal Bases for Processing
We process personal data only where permitted under GDPR, based on the following legal grounds:
Contractual necessity – to provide access to the platform and its core functionality
Consent – for optional cookies and platform communications
Legitimate interest – to improve platform safety, prevent misuse, ensure responsible connections between users, and maintain the integrity of the BOUS platform
Legal obligation – where required by applicable law
How We Use Personal Data
We use the collected data to:
operate and maintain the BOUS platform
facilitate connections between users
communicate platform updates and service-related information
improve usability and user experience
ensure safety, trust, and integrity of the platform
Users may receive platform updates, feature announcements, or service-related communications only if they have provided consent and may opt out of such communications at any time.
BOUS does not sell personal data and does not use personal data for third-party advertising unrelated to the platform.
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
BOUS uses cookies and similar technologies to ensure basic functionality, analyze platform usage, and support communication.
Non-essential cookies are used only after user consent.
Further details are available in our Cookies Policy.
Sharing of Personal Data
Personal data may be shared with:
users you choose to interact with through the platform
trusted service providers supporting platform functionality
authorities where required by law
We do not share personal data for commercial resale.
Data Retention
Personal data is retained only for as long as necessary to provide platform services, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and improve platform quality.
Data is processed in accordance with the principle of data minimization and securely deleted or anonymized when no longer needed.
Your Rights Under GDPR
You have the right to:
access your personal data
request correction or deletion
restrict or object to processing
withdraw consent at any time
request data portability
lodge a complaint with a relevant data protection authority
Data Security
We apply reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect personal data against unauthorized access, loss, or misuse.
However, no system can guarantee absolute security.
International Data Transfers
Where personal data is processed outside the European Economic Area, we ensure appropriate safeguards in accordance with GDPR.
Age Limitation
BOUS is not intended for users under the age of 16.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated to reflect changes in legal requirements or platform functionality.
The "Last updated" date indicates the most recent revision.
Contact
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your data protection rights, please contact: