Privacy Policy
About This Policy
Paine College is committed to respecting and protecting the privacy of all individuals who visit our websites. We understand the importance of safeguarding personal information and maintaining transparency about how online data is collected, used, and stored.
Like most websites, Paine College’s online platforms collect certain types of information from visitors. This occurs both passively (through server activity and analytics tools) and actively (through forms, surveys, or other input fields).
Some types of collected information may allow Paine College to identify returning visitors or understand how users navigate our website. However, most collected information is non-identifiable and is reviewed only in aggregate for analytics and improvement purposes.
This Privacy Policy outlines the types of data we collect, the methods used to gather that data, and how that data is used within the Paine College web domain, paine.edu.
Gathering & Use of Information
Aggregate Information
Paine College may collect certain non-personal, aggregate data to help our web administrators, communication staff, and IT personnel improve site performance and enhance visitor experience. Examples include:
- IP address and domain used to access the internet
- IP addresses of websites that link to paine.edu
- Date and time the site was accessed
- Pages viewed during a browsing session
- Web browser and operating system
- Device type used to access paine.edu
These data points help Paine College evaluate site traffic, resolve technical issues, and optimize content delivery.
How We Collect Aggregate Data
Cookies
Cookies are small pieces of data stored in your browser. They help personalize your experience, retain preferences, and improve usability. You may manage or disable cookies through your browser settings.
Third-Party Tracking Tools (e.g., Google Analytics)
Some Paine College websites use third-party analytics tools such as Google Analytics to collect aggregate visitor data. These services may use cookies to track usage patterns. For more information, consult Google’s policies on partner sites.
Paine College may also use non-personal data collected through these tools to display targeted messages or advertisements on other websites.
Server Logs
Our web servers automatically collect basic information to monitor site functionality, security, and performance.
Personal Information
Visitors may voluntarily provide personal information through Paine College’s online forms or surveys. This information may include:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Mailing address
- Academic or program interests
- High school graduation year
Paine College may also receive personal information from trusted third-party partners for purposes such as student recruitment, outreach, and communication.
How Personal Information Is Used
If you provide personal information, Paine College may use it to:
- Respond to your inquiries
- Send requested materials
- Deliver relevant content or updates
- Enhance your experience with Paine College communications
Sharing Personal Information
Paine College does not sell personal information.
We may share personal information only:
- When required by law
- When necessary to protect Paine College’s interests
- With contracted, trusted vendors who must maintain confidentiality
Shared information is limited to what partners need in order to support Paine College’s mission or improve user experience.
Browsing Information & Tracking
Some paine.edu sites may use third-party remarketing tools such as Google Ads or the Meta/Facebook pixel. These tools allow Paine College to display tailored advertisements on other websites and social platforms.
These technologies use cookies, web beacons, or similar tracking methods and may associate your browsing activity with your profile on those platforms if you are logged in.
This information also helps Paine College measure the effectiveness of digital advertising campaigns.
Opting Out of Tracking
You may opt out of interest-based advertising and data collection by using the following tools:
- Digital Advertising Alliance WebChoices Tool
- Google Ad Settings
- Network Advertising Initiative Opt-Out Page
These tools allow you to manage your online ad preferences across multiple platforms.
Paine College & GDPR
Paine College may act as a “data controller” or “data processor” under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for certain activities involving individuals within the EU.
We are committed to protecting data subject rights in compliance with applicable laws.
Questions regarding GDPR may be directed to: privacy@paine.edu (or your preferred contact email).
Policy Updates
Digital technologies and best practices change frequently. Paine College may update this Privacy Policy at any time. Visitors are encouraged to review this page periodically to stay informed about current terms and procedures.