Privacy Statement

1. Information We Collect

ABSE collects only the minimum amount of personal data necessary for managing the editorial and publishing process. The types of information we may collect include:

• Name, institutional affiliation, country, and contact information (email, phone number).
• Account credentials for the Open Journal Systems (OJS) platform.
• Manuscript metadata, submission files, peer review comments, and editorial correspondence.
• Technical information such as IP addresses and browser data collected via cookies for site analytics and security.

2. Purpose of Data Collection

Personal data are processed solely for legitimate purposes related to the publication process, including:

• Managing manuscript submissions and peer review.
• Editorial decision-making and communication with authors or reviewers.
• Providing publication updates, calls for papers, and relevant announcements (with consent).
• Website analytics and system improvement.

We do not sell, lease, or distribute personal data to third parties for commercial use.

3. Legal Basis for Processing

ABSE processes data on the following lawful bases:

• Consent: Users voluntarily provide data when submitting manuscripts, registering accounts, or subscribing to updates.
• Contractual necessity: Data are required to fulfill editorial and publishing obligations between ABSE and authors/reviewers.
• Legitimate interest: Ensuring platform security, operational efficiency, and quality publishing services.

4. Use of Cookies and Analytics

Our website may use cookies to enhance usability and collect anonymized traffic analytics. These cookies do not store personally identifiable information. Users can manage cookie preferences through their browser settings.

5. Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary to complete the editorial process and comply with archiving obligations. Data may be preserved for historical recordkeeping in accordance with scholarly publishing standards and indexing requirements.

6. Data Sharing and Access

Personal data may be shared with:

• Editorial board members and reviewers directly involved in manuscript handling.
• Technical service providers managing OJS hosting, DOI registration (CrossRef), and archiving systems (Portico, LOCKSS).
• Legal or regulatory bodies if required by law or in cases of ethical investigation.

All such entities are bound by confidentiality and data protection agreements.

7. Data Security

ABSE implements administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect user information from unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction. Security measures include SSL encryption, password protection, secure backups, and regular vulnerability audits.

8. User Rights (GDPR Compliance)

Users have the right to:

• Access their personal data stored by ABSE.
• Request correction or deletion of inaccurate data.
• Withdraw consent for data processing at any time.
• Request data portability or restrict processing under certain conditions.

Requests can be made by emailing [email protected]. We respond within 30 days in accordance with GDPR timelines.

9. Communication Preferences

Registered users may receive communication related to their manuscript status, journal updates, or calls for papers. Every email includes an option to unsubscribe or modify preferences in compliance with the CAN-SPAM Act.

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may include links to external websites or partner organizations. ABSE is not responsible for the privacy policies or practices of external entities. Users are encouraged to review privacy statements on linked sites before providing personal data.

11. Children’s Privacy

The journal platform is not intended for individuals under the age of 16. We do not knowingly collect or process data from minors without explicit parental consent.

12. Updates to This Policy

This Privacy Statement may be revised periodically to reflect legal, operational, or technological changes. The updated version will be posted on the journal website with the effective revision date clearly indicated.

13. Contact Information

Questions or concerns regarding this Privacy Statement or data handling practices can be directed to:

• Email: [email protected]
• Editorial Office: Annals of Biomedical Science and Engineering (ABSE), USA

“ABSE is committed to maintaining transparency, confidentiality, and trust throughout the publication process — safeguarding your information at every step.”