Privacy Policy
Last updated: 2025-11-24
We respect your privacy. This policy explains what data we collect, why we collect it, and what we do with it.
Short version: We collect very little personal data. We use analytics to understand site usage. We don't sell your data. We use cookies for essential functionality only.
What Data We Collect
AudiobookSoul collects minimal data to operate the site and improve user experience.
1. Analytics Data (Anonymized)
We use Google Analytics with IP anonymization enabled to understand how people use our site:
- Pages visited
- Time spent on pages
- Browser type and device information
- Approximate location (city-level, not precise)
- How you found our site (referral source)
This helps us understand which reviews are popular, where our readers come from, and how to improve the site.
2. Affiliate Tracking
When you click on Amazon or Audible links, affiliate tracking parameters are added to the URL. This tells Amazon/Audible you came from AudiobookSoul so we can earn a commission if you make a purchase.
We don't see your purchase details. We only know that someone made a purchase through our link - we don't know who or what they bought.
3. Essential Cookies
We use cookies for:
- Session management (when user accounts are added in the future)
- Remembering your preferences (like theme settings, if implemented)
- Analytics (via Google Analytics)
We don't use tracking cookies for advertising. We don't serve ads, so we don't need creepy ad-tracking cookies.
4. Data We Don't Collect (Phase 1)
Currently, AudiobookSoul does NOT collect:
- Email addresses
- Account information (no user accounts yet)
- Payment information (we don't sell anything directly)
- User-generated content (no comments yet)
- Precise location data
How We Use Your Data
We use the data we collect to:
- Improve site content and user experience
- Understand which reviews are most helpful
- Fix technical issues and bugs
- Measure site performance
- Track affiliate referrals (to earn commissions)
We do NOT:
- Sell your data to third parties
- Use your data for advertising targeting
- Share your data with publishers or authors
- Send marketing emails (we don't have your email)
Third-Party Services
AudiobookSoul uses these third-party services:
Google Analytics
Analytics with IP anonymization. Google's privacy policy: policies.google.com/privacy
Amazon Associates / Audible Affiliate
Affiliate tracking for commission earnings. When you click our links and purchase, Amazon/Audible may set cookies. Their privacy policies: Amazon Privacy Notice
These services have their own privacy policies. When you interact with them (e.g., clicking affiliate links), their policies apply.
Your Rights (GDPR & CCPA)
If you're in the EU (GDPR) or California (CCPA), you have rights regarding your data:
Access & Deletion
You can request to:
- See what data we have about you (spoiler: probably just anonymized analytics)
- Delete your data from our systems
- Export your data (if applicable)
Opt-Out Options
You can:
- Disable analytics tracking: Use browser extensions like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger
- Block cookies: Configure your browser to block third-party cookies
- Opt out of Google Analytics: Install Google's opt-out browser add-on: tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
To exercise these rights, contact us.
Data Security
We take reasonable measures to protect your data:
- HTTPS encryption for all site traffic
- Regular security updates
- Minimal data collection reduces risk
- No payment processing (we don't handle credit cards)
That said, no website is 100% secure. We do our best, but we can't guarantee absolute security.
Children's Privacy
AudiobookSoul is not directed at children under 13. We don't knowingly collect data from children.
If you're a parent and believe your child has provided us with data, contact us and we'll delete it.
Future Changes (User Accounts, Comments)
If we add user accounts or comments in the future, we'll collect:
- Email addresses (for account creation and password resets)
- Usernames and profile information (if you provide it)
- User-generated content (reviews, comments, ratings)
We'll update this Privacy Policy before implementing those features and notify users of changes.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy occasionally. When we do:
- We'll update the "Last Updated" date at the top
- Major changes will be noted on the site
- Continued use of the site means you accept the new policy
We'll never make retroactive changes that reduce your privacy protections without explicit consent.
Contact Us About Privacy
Questions about this Privacy Policy? Want to exercise your data rights?
Contact us and we'll respond as quickly as possible.
By using AudiobookSoul, you agree to this Privacy Policy and our Terms of Service.