Privacy & student data

Only collect what helps run the program.

Open Seas Networking uses RSVP information to review registrations, communicate about sessions, and operate the program. It does not sell student information or place advertising trackers on this website.

What we may collect

When a student registers, the form requests a name, email address, phone number, a short introduction, and only the extra questions selected for that session. The program is intended for students age 13 or older; younger students need parent or guardian permission before submitting information.

Essential RSVP security record

To prevent duplicate submissions, spam, and RSVP abuse, Open Seas creates a limited security record when an RSVP is submitted. It includes the submitting IP address, browser/device category, full browser user-agent, and a random first-party security-cookie hash. The raw IP address and browser user-agent are encrypted before storage; the cookie value itself is never saved. This is not advertising or cross-site tracking.

Only organizers using the native Open Seas Manager directly on the Pi can view the related security record while reviewing an RSVP. It is linked to approval or denial decisions without copying raw IP or cookie data into the general audit log. Security records are automatically deleted after 90 days.

How information is used

Information is reviewed by Open Seas organizers to manage RSVPs and send session updates. Email is sent through the configured mail provider. Optional texts are sent only where the student opts in and the session enables text notifications.

Where information is stored

RSVP records are stored on the organization’s Raspberry Pi in the Open Seas database. Sensitive RSVP security evidence is stored separately and encrypted using the site’s private secret. The public site is served through a Cloudflare Tunnel, while the organizer application remains local to the Pi.

Recordings and photos

Some sessions may be recorded or photographed. Registration asks participants to acknowledge the notice before they submit an RSVP. A parent or guardian should review participation when appropriate.

Questions, corrections, or deletion requests

Contact [email protected] to ask about a registration record, request a correction, or request deletion where appropriate.

Organizer note: This page is a clear program notice, not legal advice. An adult nonprofit advisor should review final privacy, consent, and record-retention practices before collecting information from students at scale.