Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 5/12/26

The Higher Education Protection Network (“HEPNet,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) respects your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect information when you visit our website, submit forms, register for events, become a member, participate in programs, or otherwise interact with HEPNet.

Information We Collect

We may collect information that you voluntarily provide to us, including:

  • Name
  • Job title and institution or organization
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Mailing address
  • Membership information
  • Event registration information
  • Program application or scholarship information
  • Payment or billing information
  • Resume, statement of support, or other uploaded materials when required for an application
  • Any other information you choose to submit through forms, emails, surveys, applications, or registrations

We may also collect limited technical information automatically when you visit our website, such as browser type, device information, pages visited, referring links, and general usage data.

How We Use Information

HEPNet may use information we collect to:

  • Process memberships, registrations, applications, payments, and renewals
  • Communicate with you about HEPNet programs, events, resources, and membership opportunities
  • Respond to questions, requests, and form submissions
  • Provide access to member benefits, learning programs, webinars, conferences, committees, and other services
  • Review applications for scholarships, board service, committees, or other opportunities
  • Improve our website, programs, communications, and services
  • Maintain internal records and organizational operations
  • Comply with legal, financial, and administrative obligations

Payments

HEPNet may collect payment-related information when you register for an event, purchase membership, or pay for a program. Payment processing is handled by third-party payment processors. HEPNet does not intentionally store full credit card numbers on its website.

Email Communications

If you sign up for HEPNet communications, register for an event, become a member, or otherwise provide your email address, we may send you relevant updates, announcements, resources, and program information. You may unsubscribe from marketing emails by using the unsubscribe link included in those messages or by contacting us.

Sharing of Information

HEPNet does not sell personal information.

We may share information with trusted service providers that help us operate our website, manage membership, process payments, host events, send communications, support forms, or provide other organizational services. These providers are authorized to use information only as needed to provide services to HEPNet.

We may also share information when required by law, to protect HEPNet’s rights or operations, or with your consent.

Event Participation and Media

When you attend a HEPNet event, photos, video, or audio may be captured. HEPNet may use event media to promote the Network, its programs, and future events. Event-specific registration forms may include additional media terms.

Cookies and Website Analytics

Our website may use cookies or similar technologies to support website functionality, understand site traffic, improve user experience, and evaluate communications. You may be able to adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies or alert you when cookies are being used.

Third-Party Links and Platforms

Our website may link to third-party websites or platforms, such as registration systems, payment processors, learning platforms, document storage, or partner sites. HEPNet is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of third-party websites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies.

Data Retention

HEPNet retains information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this Privacy Policy, support organizational operations, comply with legal or financial obligations, resolve disputes, and maintain appropriate records.

Security

HEPNet takes reasonable administrative, technical, and organizational steps to protect information from unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or disclosure. However, no website, system, or electronic transmission is completely secure.

Children’s Privacy

HEPNet’s website and services are intended for adults and professionals working in or with higher education. We do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children through our website.

Your Choices

You may contact HEPNet to request that we update, correct, or delete certain personal information, subject to legal, financial, membership, and operational recordkeeping requirements.

To make a request, contact us at:

Higher Education Protection Network
P.O. Box 44
Canal Winchester, OH 43110
Email: membership@higheredprotection.org

Changes to This Privacy Policy

HEPNet may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will update the effective date above. Continued use of our website after changes are posted means you acknowledge the updated policy.