Privacy

Privacy Policy – IJCERT Journal

At IJCERT Journal, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of privacy and data security in line with international best practices, including Scopus Content Selection and Advisory Board (CSAB) standards. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, process, and protect personal information in compliance with ethical publishing norms.

1. Information We Collect

We collect and process different types of information to facilitate a secure and transparent publishing process:

  • Personal Information: Names, email addresses, institutional affiliations, and contact details submitted during manuscript submission, peer review, and editorial communications.

  • Manuscript and Research Data: Submitted articles, supporting documents, research files, and related metadata.

  • Technical and Usage Data: IP addresses, browser details, device identifiers, and analytics collected through website interactions to enhance service efficiency.

  • Communication Records: Email correspondences, review feedback, and support queries to improve user experience and journal operations.

2. Purpose of Data Collection

The information collected is strictly used for:

  • Manuscript Management: Facilitating submission, peer review, editorial decision-making, and publication.

  • Editorial Communication: Sending notifications about manuscript status, reviewer feedback, and journal announcements.

  • Quality and Compliance: Ensuring adherence to ethical publishing practices and avoiding plagiarism, conflicts of interest, or research misconduct.

  • Website Performance and Security: Monitoring site activity, preventing unauthorized access, and improving functionality.

3. Data Security and Confidentiality

IJCERT Journal implements stringent security protocols to ensure that all personal and research-related data is safeguarded against unauthorized access, alteration, or misuse. Key security measures include:

  • Encrypted Data Storage: All personal and manuscript data are stored securely in encrypted databases.

  • Restricted Access Controls: Only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, ensuring confidentiality.

  • Regular Security Audits: Routine assessments to identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities.

4. Data Sharing and Third-Party Disclosure

IJCERT does not sell, rent, or commercially distribute personal data. However, limited data may be shared with:

  • Indexing and Abstracting Databases: To facilitate academic recognition and citation tracking (e.g., Scopus, CrossRef, Google Scholar).

  • Peer Reviewers and Editorial Board: To conduct fair, anonymous peer review while maintaining strict confidentiality.

  • Regulatory and Compliance Bodies: If legally required for fraud prevention, legal proceedings, or compliance with international publishing standards.

5. Use of Cookies and Tracking Technologies

To enhance website functionality, we use cookies and analytics tools to:

  • Improve user experience and navigation.

  • Analyze traffic and content engagement.

  • Customize journal-related notifications based on user preferences.

Users have the option to manage or disable cookies through their browser settings.

6. Data Retention and Deletion Policy

We retain personal and research-related data only for as long as necessary to fulfill publishing obligations and regulatory requirements. Upon request, authors and users can:

  • Request Access to Their Data

  • Seek Corrections or Updates

  • Request Data Deletion (subject to retention policies for academic integrity and compliance purposes)

7. User Rights and Compliance with International Standards

We respect the rights of authors, reviewers, and visitors concerning their personal information. Users can:

  • Access and Update Their Data

  • Withdraw Consent for Data Processing

  • Opt-Out of Non-Essential Communications

  • Report Concerns Regarding Data Usage

IJCERT Journal adheres to COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines and aligns with Scopus CSAB standards for data privacy, ethical publishing, and integrity.

8. Third-Party Links and External Content

Our website may include links to third-party repositories, indexing platforms, and research databases. While we strive to collaborate with credible sources, we are not responsible for external sites’ privacy policies.

9. Policy Updates and Notifications

We periodically update our Privacy Policy to reflect changes in regulatory requirements and best practices. Significant updates will be communicated through:

  • Email notifications to registered users.

  • Website announcements on policy revisions.

10. Contact Information for Privacy Concerns

For any questions or concerns regarding privacy and data protection, please contact our Data Protection Officer at [IJCERT Support].

IJCERT Journal is committed to ensuring ethical, transparent, and secure publishing practices that align with global academic standards, including Scopus CSAB evaluation criteria.