Data Protection Policy – Joystick Journal

1. Introduction

This Data Protection Policy outlines how Joystick Journal collects, processes, and protects the personal information of players engaging with our video games, online platforms, and related services. We are committed to safeguarding your privacy, complying with applicable data protection laws, and ensuring a secure gaming environment. By accessing, downloading, or using our games and services, you agree to the terms described in this policy.

2. Information We Collect

To provide the best possible gaming experience, we may collect and process the following categories of data:

• Personal Information – username, display name, profile image, and account credentials.
• Contact Details – email address or other communication identifiers used for account recovery and notifications.
• Gameplay Information – game progress, achievements, rankings, statistics, preferences, and in-game purchases.
• Device Data – device model, operating system, hardware identifiers, language settings, and internet protocol (IP) address.
• Usage Data – session length, interaction patterns, crash reports, performance logs, and error diagnostics.
• Payment Data – transaction details related to purchases, processed securely by third-party providers; we do not store sensitive payment information.

3. How We Use Your Data

Your personal and technical information is processed for purposes including:

• Game Operation – enabling gameplay, saving progress, and providing multiplayer functionalities.
• Service Improvement – analyzing feedback and player behavior to enhance game balance, features, and stability.
• Account Management – authenticating users, preventing fraud, and maintaining security.
• Customer Support – addressing player questions, resolving issues, and processing requests.
• Marketing Communication – informing you about updates, events, and promotions, only with your consent.
• Security Monitoring – detecting cheating, unauthorized modifications, and potential cyber threats.

4. Legal Basis for Processing

We rely on different legal grounds depending on the purpose of processing:

• Contractual necessity – to provide the gaming services you request.
• Legitimate interest – to maintain service security and prevent abuse.
• Consent – for optional services such as promotional communications.
• Legal compliance – when fulfilling regulatory obligations.

5. Data Retention

We retain personal data only for as long as it is necessary for the purposes described in this policy. Factors affecting retention include account activity, legal obligations, and business requirements. Data that is no longer needed is securely deleted or anonymized.

6. Data Sharing

We do not sell personal data to third parties. However, your information may be shared with trusted partners strictly for operational purposes, such as:

• Service providers – hosting, analytics, and support tools.
• Payment processors – handling in-game purchases securely.
• Law enforcement – when required by law or court order.

All third parties are contractually bound to handle your data responsibly and securely.

7. International Data Transfers

If your personal data is transferred to a country outside your jurisdiction, we ensure that appropriate safeguards, such as contractual clauses and data encryption, are applied to protect your privacy.

8. Security Measures

We employ technical and organizational measures to protect your data from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse, including:

• Encryption for data in transit and at rest.
• Regular system updates and vulnerability assessments.
• Access controls and authentication systems.
• Continuous monitoring for unusual activity.

9. Your Rights

You may have rights under applicable laws to:

• Request access to your personal data.
• Correct inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Request deletion of your data in certain circumstances.
• Object to or restrict certain types of processing.
• Withdraw consent for optional features at any time.

To exercise these rights, contact us using the information available in our support section.

10. Children’s Data

Our games are intended for players of the legal age required in their country. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children without parental consent. If we become aware that we have collected such data inadvertently, it will be promptly deleted.

11. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Data Protection Policy periodically to reflect legal changes, technological advancements, or service improvements. When updates are significant, we will notify you through in-game announcements or other appropriate channels.

12. Contact Information

If you have questions or concerns regarding this Data Protection Policy or your personal data, please contact us via the customer support options provided in our games or platforms.