What we collect, why, and your choices.
This policy explains how the CosmicIRC website (cosmicirc.com) and the CosmicIRC IRC network handle information. We aim to collect as little as possible and to be transparent about the rest.
When you connect to the IRC server, the network necessarily processes your IP address and the connection details your client sends (nickname, username, real-name field). This is standard and required for IRC to function. Your IP address is cloaked from other users by default, though network operators can see it for moderation and security purposes.
If you register a nickname or channel with our services, the information you provide (such as a password hash and, optionally, an email address) is stored to maintain your registration. We do not sell or share this information.
Messages you send in channels are visible to others in those channels in real time. The network does not publish chat logs, but individual users or channel operators may keep their own logs outside our control.
The website itself collects minimal information. Standard web server logs may record IP addresses, browser type, and pages requested for security and operational purposes. We do not require you to create an account to browse the site.
The website may use cookies and similar technologies for basic functionality and, if enabled, for advertising (see below). You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings; doing so may affect some features.
This website may display advertising provided by third-party advertising partners, including Google AdSense. Where advertising is active:
If you are in a region with applicable privacy laws (such as the EU/UK under GDPR), you will be asked for consent before non-essential and advertising cookies are set.
This site loads web fonts from Google Fonts, which may process limited technical data (such as your IP and browser) to deliver the fonts. Any embedded chat client connects to our own IRC server.
Server logs are retained only as long as needed for security and operational purposes. Registration data is retained while your account or channel remains active and may expire after a period of inactivity.
This service is not directed at children under 13 (or the minimum age in your jurisdiction). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.
You may drop a registered nickname or channel at any time through services, manage cookies through your browser, and opt out of personalised advertising as described above. To request information about data associated with your registration, contact us.
Questions about this policy can be sent to admin@cosmicirc.com.