Privacy Policy

Last updated: 8 April 2026

Who We Are

The Protocol is operated by Miles Austin ("we", "us", "our"). We are based in the United Kingdom. If you have questions about this policy, contact us at the email address provided on our website.

What Data We Collect

We collect only what's necessary to provide our services:

• Name and email address — submitted via The Protocol signup form
• Basic analytics data — pages visited, device type, browser (anonymised where possible)
• Cookie consent preference — stored locally in your browser

How We Use Your Data

• To send you The Protocol community content (only if you opt in)
• To respond to enquiries or booking requests
• To improve the website experience

Legal Basis

Under UK GDPR, we process your data based on:

• Consent — when you submit the signup form or accept cookies
• Legitimate interest — for basic analytics and site improvement
• Contractual necessity — when you engage us for services

Data Sharing

We do not sell your data. We may share data with:

• Email service providers (e.g. MailerLite) — to deliver community emails
• Payment processors (e.g. Stripe) — to process service payments
• Hosting providers — to serve this website

All third parties are GDPR-compliant or operate under equivalent protections.

Data Retention

We retain your data only as long as necessary. If you unsubscribe from The Protocol, your data is deleted within 30 days. Client records are retained for 6 years for UK tax/legal compliance.

Your Rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Request correction or deletion
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Lodge a complaint with the ICO (ico.org.uk)

Changes

We may update this policy. The "last updated" date at the top will reflect any changes.