Wikipedia:Privacy policy

This is the privacy policy for Wikipedia and other Wikimedia Foundation projects. It explains what information we collect, how we use it, and what rights you have when you use our services.

1. Overview

Wikipedia is a free, collaboratively edited encyclopedia operated by the nonprofit Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. We collect only the information that helps us make our projects better, understand usage, and protect users and the site. We never sell your personal information.

2. What information we collect a. Information you provide

Public contributions: Any edits or uploads you make are public and permanently stored. Your username or IP address will be associated with your edits.

Account information: If you create an account, we store your username, password (encrypted), and email address (optional, for password recovery or notifications).

Communication: When you contact us, we may keep your message and email address for follow-up.

b. Information we automatically receive

Log data: Your IP address, browser type, device information, referring URL, and timestamp are automatically recorded for security and analytics.

Cookies: We use cookies to keep you logged in, remember preferences, and analyze traffic. You can disable cookies in your browser, but some features may not work properly.

3. How we use your information

We use collected data to:

Maintain and improve our services.

Prevent vandalism and ensure site security.

Analyze usage trends to improve content and user experience.

Communicate with users (when you choose to provide contact information).

4. Sharing and disclosure

We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share limited data:

To comply with legal obligations.

To prevent abuse or protect the rights, property, or safety of others.

With trusted service providers (e.g., hosting, analytics), who must comply with this policy.

5. Data retention

Public contributions are kept indefinitely to preserve the historical record. Other personal data is retained only as long as needed for operational, security, or legal purposes.

6. Security

We use reasonable physical, electronic, and administrative measures to protect user data. However, because Wikipedia is open and public, we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7. Your choices

You can view and edit your contributions anytime.

You can delete your account by contacting Wikimedia (although public edits will remain).

You can adjust cookie settings in your browser.

8. International use

Wikipedia’s servers are located in the United States, but data may be processed in other countries where privacy laws may differ. By using our sites, you consent to this processing.

9. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. Significant changes will be announced on project pages or mailing lists.