Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy describes how DataHarbor ("we," "our," or "us") collects, uses, and protects your personal information when you use our municipal open data platform at dataharbor.ca. We are committed to transparency and the responsible handling of data, in line with our civic-tech mission. This policy applies to all information collected through our website and related services.

We collect information you provide directly, such as your name, email address, and institutional affiliation when you contact our editorial office, submit inquiries, or sign up for updates. We also automatically collect certain technical data, including your IP address, browser type, and usage patterns (e.g., datasets accessed, search queries) to improve platform functionality and data discovery. We do not collect sensitive personal data beyond what is necessary for platform operation.

Your information is used to operate, maintain, and improve the DataHarbor platform; to respond to your inquiries from [email protected]; to communicate about platform updates or civic data initiatives; and to analyze usage trends to enhance data accessibility and standardization. We employ AI tools solely to support data discovery and categorization, not for profiling individuals. We do not sell or rent your personal information.

We may share aggregated, non-personally identifiable usage data with municipal partners or for research purposes to advance open data standards. We do not disclose your personal information to third parties except as required by law, to protect our rights, or with service providers who assist in platform operations under strict confidentiality agreements. These providers are prohibited from using your information for any other purpose.

We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction. Data is stored on secure servers, and access is restricted to authorized personnel. We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy or as required by law. You may request deletion of your data by contacting us.

You have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of your personal information. You may also object to or restrict certain processing. To exercise these rights, or for any questions regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact: CivicData Canada Editorial Office, 250 University Avenue, Suite 1200, Toronto, ON M5H 3E5, or via email at [email protected]. This policy is effective as of 2026 and may be updated periodically.