Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

DarkSyde Entertainment Studios ("we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website, use our services, or interact with us.

By using our services or providing us with personal information, you consent to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.

2. Information We Collect

Personal Information:

• Name, email address, phone number
• Billing and payment information
• Professional information (artist name, genre, experience level)
• Social media profiles (when provided)
• Communication preferences

Technical Information:

• IP address, browser type, and device information
• Website usage data and analytics
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies
• Referral sources and browsing behavior

Audio and Creative Content:

• Recordings, vocals, and instrumental performances
• Project files and work-in-progress materials
• Lyrics, compositions, and creative materials
• Feedback and revision requests

3. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information for the following purposes:

• Service Delivery: To provide recording, mixing, mastering, and production services
• Communication: To respond to inquiries, send confirmations, and provide customer support
• Billing: To process payments, issue invoices, and manage financial transactions
• Improvement: To analyze usage patterns and improve our services
• Marketing: To send promotional materials, newsletters, and service updates (with consent)
• Legal Compliance: To comply with legal obligations and protect our rights

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share information in the following circumstances:

Service Providers: We may share information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in:

• Payment processing (Stripe, PayPal, etc.)
• Email marketing and communication platforms
• Website hosting and analytics services
• Appointment scheduling and booking systems

Collaborators: With your consent, we may share project files with session musicians, guest engineers, or other industry professionals necessary for your project.

Legal Requirements: We may disclose information when required by law, court order, or government request, or to protect our rights, property, or safety.

Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your information may be transferred to the acquiring entity.

5. Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures to protect your information:

• SSL/TLS encryption for data transmission
• Secure server infrastructure and regular backups
• Access controls and authentication protocols
• Regular security audits and updates
• Encrypted storage for sensitive project files

However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. While we strive to protect your information, we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience:

• Essential Cookies: Required for website functionality and security
• Analytics Cookies: To understand how visitors use our website (Google Analytics, etc.)
• Marketing Cookies: To deliver relevant advertisements and track campaign effectiveness
• Preference Cookies: To remember your settings and preferences

You can control cookie settings through your browser. Disabling certain cookies may limit website functionality.

7. Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to:

• Fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy
• Comply with legal, accounting, or reporting requirements
• Resolve disputes and enforce our agreements

Project Files: Session files and recordings are retained for 90 days after project completion, unless extended storage is requested.

Account Information: Client account data retained for 3 years from last activity, or longer if required by law.

8. Your Privacy Rights

Depending on your location, you may have the following rights:

• Access: Request access to your personal information
• Correction: Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal obligations)
• Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing emails and promotional communications
• Portability: Request a copy of your data in a machine-readable format
• Objection: Object to processing of your information for certain purposes

To exercise these rights, contact us at [email protected]

9. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites, including:

• Social media platforms (Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, etc.)
• Music distribution services
• Payment processors
• Industry partners and collaborators

We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third-party sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing any information.

10. Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you are a parent or guardian and believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us immediately.

For clients aged 13-17, parental consent is required for booking studio services.

11. California Privacy Rights (CCPA)

California residents have additional rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act:

• Right to know what personal information is collected and how it's used
• Right to delete personal information
• Right to opt-out of sale of personal information (we do not sell personal information)
• Right to non-discrimination for exercising privacy rights

To submit a CCPA request, email us at [email protected]

12. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your country of residence. These countries may have different data protection laws. By using our services, you consent to such transfers.

We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in accordance with this Privacy Policy.

13. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The "Last Updated" date at the top indicates when the policy was last revised.

We will notify you of significant changes via email or prominent notice on our website. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.