At the Journal of Sulaimani Medical College (JSMC), we are committed to protecting the privacy and security of our users, including authors, reviewers, editors, and readers. This Privacy Statement explains how we collect, use, store, and share personal data through our website and editorial processes.

1. Data Collection

We collect personal information during:

User registration
Manuscript submission
Peer review participation
Editorial correspondence

This data may include:

Full name, institutional affiliation, and title
Contact details (email address, phone number)
ORCID iD (optional)
Publication and authorship history

2. Use of Personal Data

Collected data is used strictly for the following purposes:

Processing submissions and facilitating peer review
Communicating editorial decisions and journal updates
Indexing and archiving published articles
Fulfilling legal and ethical publishing obligations

3. Data Sharing

We do not share your personal information with third parties, except:

With peer reviewers or editors (as part of the blinded review process)
With indexing and archiving services (for published articles)
When required by law or legal authority

All data shared externally is handled securely and only to the extent necessary.

4. Data Storage and Security

Personal data is stored securely and protected against unauthorized access or alteration. Access is restricted to authorized editorial staff. We retain personal data only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this statement and to comply with legal obligations.

5. Cookies and Analytics

Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to improve user experience and collect non-identifiable usage statistics. Users can manage cookie preferences through their browser settings.

6. User Rights

You have the right to:

Access or update your personal information
Request deletion of your account or data
Withdraw consent or object to certain data uses
Lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority if you believe your data rights have been violated

To exercise your rights or submit questions regarding your data, contact us at: [email protected]

7. Policy Updates

This Privacy Statement may be updated periodically. All changes will be published on our website with the effective date clearly stated. Continued use of our services indicates acceptance of the revised terms.