Privacy & Cookies

Summary

The Hidden Systems collects only the data needed to operate the site and improve it through anonymized analytics and (optionally) to deliver the newsletter. This page explains what we collect, why we collect it, how long we keep it, and how you can opt out or request deletion.

Google Analytics (GA4)

We use Google Analytics 4 to collect anonymized usage data that helps us improve the site (pageviews, basic events). We only load Google Analytics after you explicitly accept analytics cookies via our cookie manager; we respect Do Not Track and anonymize IPs.

Measurement ID: G-EY54H5HZBX

We do not combine analytics data with personally identifying information collected through other site features (for example, newsletter signups). To opt out, use the cookie manager on this site or enable Do Not Track in your browser.

Cookies & Consent

• Necessary cookies: required for the website to function (session state, preferences). These are always active.
• Analytics cookies: used only after you grant consent via the cookie manager. Analytics collection is disabled if you reject analytics cookies or enable Do Not Track.
• Consent is stored locally in your browser in the site_consent key (localStorage) as a JSON object. You may change or withdraw consent at any time via the cookie manager (link in footer) or by clearing site data for this origin.

Newsletter / Mailing List

We offer an optional newsletter. This section explains what we collect if you subscribe, how we use it, and how you can manage or remove your information.

What we collect

When you subscribe to the newsletter you provide:

• Email address (required)
  Optionally you may provide: We also record:
• Subscription timestamp
• IP address at time of signup (only if the provider records it — used for fraud detection and auditing)
• A record of consent (what you consented to, timestamp)

Why we collect it

We use your email to:

• Send the newsletter and occasional administrative messages (unsubscribe confirmations, preference changes).
• Aggregate analytics about open rates/clicks for the newsletter (only if you consent and only as configured by the newsletter provider).

We do not share your email with third parties for marketing unless you explicitly opt in or we state so at the point of collection.

Provider / third-party processors

We use Brevo as our marketing platform.
By submitting the newsletter form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo’s Privacy Policy. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Brevo (formerly Sendinblue) provides data processing services and documents how it complies with the GDPR and other privacy rules; see Brevo’s GDPR/compliance information for details. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Consent & double opt-in

• Our signup form includes an explicit checkbox for consent to receive the newsletter (this is not pre-checked). We use a double opt-in process: after you enter your email, you will receive a confirmation email with a link; we will only add you to the list after you click that confirmation link.
• Example checkbox text for forms:

  [ ] I agree to receive the newsletter from The Hidden Systems. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time. (Required)

How to unsubscribe or change preferences

• Each newsletter message contains an unsubscribe link. Clicking it will remove you from the mailing list immediately.
• To change preferences or request deletion of your email from our records, contact: hello@hiddensystems.com. We will process deletion requests promptly and confirm when completed.

Retention

• By default we keep newsletter email addresses until you unsubscribe. Optionally, you may choose (or we may configure) an inactivity policy (for example, remove addresses with no engagement after 2–3 years). If you prefer a shorter retention period, contact us.

Security

• We take reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect subscriber data, including TLS for forms and relying on Brevo’s provider security practices. No transmission is 100% secure—please contact us with any concerns.

Third-party embeds & external content

Some pages may include embeds (e.g., YouTube, Twitter). These third-party services may set their own cookies or collect usage data. Where possible we use click-to-load placeholders so third parties are contacted only after you interact.

Data subject rights (EU / UK / other jurisdictions)

If you are in the EU/UK (or otherwise covered by relevant privacy laws), you may have rights to:

• Access personal data we hold about you,
• Request correction or deletion,
• Object to or restrict processing,
• Request data portability,
• Withdraw consent.

To exercise any rights, email hello@hiddensystems.com. We will normally respond within one month. This is not legal advice—please consult a lawyer for specifics.

Changes to this policy

We may update this policy occasionally. The date at the top shows the last update. Material changes will be posted here and, where appropriate, announced.

Contact

If you have questions about this policy or your data, contact: hello@hiddensystems.com.