Privacy policy

This privacy policy explains what MechatronicsPrograms.com (mechatronicsprograms.com) collects when you visit, how we use that information, and your rights to access or delete it.

What data we collect

MechatronicsPrograms.com is a static informational site. The data we collect is limited to:

• Standard web server logs: IP address, browser user agent, requested URL, referring URL, timestamp. These are standard for any website and used for security monitoring, error diagnosis, and aggregate traffic measurement.
• Analytics data (if you have not opted out via Do Not Track or a browser ad blocker): aggregate page views, time on page, country-level geographic location, device type. We use this to understand which content is most useful and to identify pages that need improvement.
• Affiliate-referral tracking: when you click an outbound link to a school or program partner, that partner's site may set cookies or track your visit per its own privacy policy. We do not control those third-party data practices and recommend reviewing each partner's privacy policy directly.

We do not collect names, email addresses, phone numbers, financial information, or any other personally identifiable information through the site itself. We do not operate a contact form, account system, mailing list, or comment system.

Cookies

We may set a minimal first-party cookie for site-functionality purposes (for example, remembering your dark-mode preference). These cookies do not contain personal information and are not shared with third parties.

Third-party cookies may be set by analytics providers (such as Google Analytics, if enabled) or by partner schools when you click an outbound link. Block third-party cookies in your browser settings if you prefer to avoid these.

How we use the data

We use the data described above only for:

• Security monitoring and abuse prevention
• Diagnosing site errors and performance issues
• Aggregate analytics about which content is most useful
• Compliance with legal obligations (subpoenas, court orders, etc.) when required

We do not sell, rent, or share visitor data with third parties for marketing purposes. We do not build advertising profiles based on your visits.

Affiliate disclosure

This site may receive compensation when readers request information from or enroll in programs featured here. Sponsored placements are labeled. Accreditation status, wage data, and program structure data are sourced directly from official records and are reported the same way regardless of partnership status.

Outbound links to partner schools or referral networks are marked with the standard rel="sponsored" attribute. Affiliate relationships do not affect our 7-factor ranking methodology; same inputs produce same scores regardless of partnership status.

Data retention

Server logs are retained for up to 90 days for security and diagnostic purposes. Aggregate analytics data is retained per our analytics provider's default settings (typically 14-26 months). We do not retain individually-identifying information beyond what's required for security and legal compliance.

Your rights (GDPR + CCPA)

If you're located in the European Union, United Kingdom, or California, you have the right to:

• Request a copy of any personal data we hold about you
• Request deletion of any personal data we hold about you
• Opt out of analytics tracking (use browser Do Not Track or a content blocker)
• Opt out of sale of personal information (we do not sell personal information)

Because we collect minimal personal information, most such requests will result in a confirmation that we have nothing identifying you in our systems. To exercise these rights or ask questions, email taylor@savogroup.com.

Children's privacy

MechatronicsPrograms.com is not directed at children under 13 and we do not knowingly collect data from children under 13. If you believe we have inadvertently collected such data, contact us and we will delete it promptly.

Changes to this policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Material changes will be reflected by updating the "Effective" date at the top of this page. Continued use of the site after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact

Questions about this privacy policy or about your data: taylor@savogroup.com.