Privacy Policy Overview

This Privacy Policy explains how CrossLink Studies (CLS) collects, uses, shares, and protects information when users visit CLS-managed websites and related support services. It also explains the choices and rights available to users.

Who We Are

CrossLink Studies operates as an open-access, peer-reviewed publishing and knowledge platform. Privacy-related questions can be directed through the CLS help and support channels.

Information We Collect

Information you provide

• Name, affiliation, country, and profile details.
• Email addresses and communications sent through CLS systems.
• Submission-related content such as manuscripts, reviews, abstracts, and metadata.
• Uploads, attachments, support requests, and user preferences.

Information collected automatically

• Browser, device, IP address, timestamps, and approximate location data.
• Usage behavior such as viewed pages, clicked links, and session diagnostics.
• Cookies and similar technologies for essential functions and optional analytics.

Information from other sources

• Co-author, reviewer, or institutional details.
• Public information from professional or academic sources.
• Data from approved service providers supporting CLS operations.

How We Use Information

• To operate and maintain CLS websites and services.
• To support editorial, review, publishing, and integrity workflows.
• To provide user support and respond to inquiries or requests.
• To improve security, accessibility, reliability, and user experience.
• To comply with legal obligations and prevent misuse or fraud.

Legal Basis for Processing

Where applicable, CLS may process personal data on the basis of contract, legitimate interest, consent, or legal obligation. The exact basis depends on the purpose of the processing activity.

How Information May Be Shared

• With contracted service providers supporting hosting, analytics, security, or communication.
• With editors, reviewers, and publishing participants where required for legitimate editorial purposes.
• When necessary for compliance, law enforcement, legal protection, or organizational restructuring.

Cookies and Tracking

CLS may use essential cookies to keep services functional and secure. Optional analytics technologies may also be used where permitted or where user consent applies. Users may manage or limit these preferences through browser controls or privacy settings.

Analytics and Performance

Analytics may be used to understand aggregate site behavior, improve functionality, and reduce technical issues. The redesigned layout presents this clearly and in a more user-friendly structure.

Retention, Security, and International Transfers

• Information may be retained as long as necessary for operational, legal, academic, and record-keeping needs.
• CLS applies administrative, technical, and organizational safeguards to protect stored information.
• Where information is processed across borders, appropriate legal safeguards may be used.

Children’s Privacy

CLS services are intended for academic and professional use and are not directed toward children below the applicable age threshold in the relevant jurisdiction.

Your Privacy Rights

Depending on jurisdiction, users may have rights such as access, correction, deletion, restriction, objection, portability, or consent withdrawal.

Research Submissions and Public Content

Submission-related names, affiliations, acknowledgements, funding details, and related public publication content may appear as part of the scholarly record in line with journal or publishing policies.

Third-Party Links and Platforms

External services linked from CLS pages are governed by their own privacy practices. Users should review those policies independently.

Policy Changes and Contact

CLS may update the policy as needed. Users should review the latest version of the privacy page for current information. Privacy-related questions and requests should be directed to official CLS support channels.