Privacy Policy
ADFInternational.org is the website for the global work of the ADF International entities, including ADF International Austria gemeinnuetzige GmbH (ADF International Austria), Alliance Defending Freedom International Belgium, Alliance Defending Freedom International France, Alliance Defending Freedom International Deutschland e.V., Alliance Defending Freedom International Switzerland, and ADF International (UK), trading as ADF UK (collectively “ADFI Entities”). Each of the ADFI Entities are separately incorporated and are affiliated with Alliance Defending Freedom and its other affiliated entities (collectively “ADF”).
This website and all other ADF websites are owned and operated by Alliance Defending Freedom in the USA. Unless otherwise noted, any information ADF collects on this website and from other international sources will be controlled and processed in the USA, subject to this privacy policy and the requisite confidentiality and security measures, including the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”).
This privacy policy explains our information practices, including:
- What information ADF collects.
- Lawful basis for collecting information.
- How ADF uses the information.
- How ADF communicates with data subjects.
- With whom ADF may share personal data.
- What choices are available to data subjects.
- What types of security procedures are in place to protect against the loss, misuse, or alteration of personal data under ADF control.
- How data subjects can correct, access, or limit their personal data under ADF control. Under GDPR, a data subject is an identified or identifiable natural person; personal data is any information relating to a data subject. Individuals with questions or concerns regarding this statement may email [email protected].
1. Information Collection
ADF collects personal data at several different points on our websites as well as from other sources.
Registration
In order to fully access portions of ADF websites related to training, a user must first complete a registration form. During registration and the subsequent application process, a user is required to give personal data relating to qualifications for the training as well as contact information.
Information Requests
ADF collects data subject contact information when users request information or services or sign up for newsletters.
Online Donations
Users must provide contact information (such as name, email, and shipping address) and financial information (such as credit card number, expiration date) to make an online donation. Online gifts to ADF International will be processed by Stripe Payments Europe, Ltd. (hereinafter “Stripe”) and transferred to the bank account of ADFI AT. ADF International will allocate the funds to the location (country or region), program, or project where they are most urgently needed.
Stripe is an Irish entity regulated by European law, including the data privacy laws. It will provide some or all of its processing services from systems located within the United States or other countries outside the European Economic Area (“EEA”). For any details, please refer to Stripe Europe Stripe Privacy Center.
Donors may contact ADF International under [email protected] with questions or concerns about a gift.
Cookies
A cookie is a piece of data stored on a user’s computer tied to information about the use of a website. We use both session ID cookies and persistent cookies. A session ID cookie is a temporary file that remains on users’ computers during a site visit, but expires when users close their browsers. A persistent cookie is stored on a user’s hard drive for an extended period of time.
By allowing a persistent cookie for our site, a user will not have to re-type a username more than once, thereby saving time while on our sites. Persistent cookies enable us to track and target the interests of our users to enhance the experience on our site. See the “Online Profile” section. Persistent cookies can be removed by following internet browser help file directions.
For further information on how this website uses cookies see https://www.adfinternational.org/site-cookies.
Users can set their browsers not to accept cookies; however, if users refuse cookies, some website features may not function properly.
Log Files
Like most standard website servers, we use log files. These may include internet protocol (IP) addresses, browser type, internet service provider (ISP), referring/exit pages, platform type, date/time stamp, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track users’ movements in the aggregate, and gather broad demographic information.
Clear Gifs (Web Beacons/Web Bugs)
We employ clear gifs (also known as Web Beacons/Web Bugs) to help manage the content on our site by informing us which content is effective. These tiny graphics contain a unique identifier and work similarly to cookies by tracking the online movements of users. The main difference is that clear gifs reside on the website and are triggered by a user’s visit, whereas cookies reside on the visitor’s computer.
We also use clear gifs in our HTML-based emails to determine which emails have been opened. This allows us to gauge the effectiveness of certain communications and our marketing campaigns. Users who have signed up for emails and wish to opt-out may do so through the opt-out section.
Direct Contact
We collect information from direct contact with data subjects at ADF events, responses to direct mail, telephone calls from persons seeking information, legal assistance, or wishing to make donations, and other voluntary sources.
Information Manifestly Made Public
Because of our legal advocacy work, we collect data on public figures such as Members of Parliament and other public officials from public sources.
Evaluating potential major donors: We collect publicly available data on individuals we believe are aligned with the ADFI mission and capable of making a substantial charitable donation. This information is obtained from existing donors and reliable public sources such as print and broadcast media, newspapers, magazines, rich lists, search engines, company websites, online articles, crowdfunders, and social media.
While small monthly gifts are critical to our support, identifying potential major donors is essential for sustaining our work. ADFI gathers this data responsibly and only for individuals who are closely aligned with its interests. Donors or interested individuals may opt out of this evaluation process by contacting [email protected].
Sensitive Personal Information
We may collect some sensitive data that is inherent to certain persons, or from inferences about those who participate in or support our work. This information is not disclosed outside of ADF.
2. Lawful Basis
The GDPR requires a lawful basis for collecting and processing personal data about persons in Europe. One or more of the following bases justify our collection and use of data:
Consent
We will email or call data subjects for marketing or other purposes only with their specific consent and will not use such consent for an unrelated purpose. Individuals may withdraw consent at any time by clicking the “unsubscribe” button in an email or emailing [email protected].
Legitimate Interest
ADF relies on legitimate interest for necessary processing of data for many data subjects such as donors, clients, employees, contractors, and website users. When using this basis, we balance our interests with data subjects’ rights. This includes evaluating potential major donors using only publicly available data related to individuals who are aligned with our interests. Should an individual object, we will refrain from processing their data for such purposes.
Contract
Contracts require processing some personal data, whether for a contact person at a vendor, an individual contractor, or an employee. Data is processed solely to fulfill the contractual objective.
Legal Obligation
We are legally obligated to process certain employee data related to taxes, social security, and other legal requirements associated with employment.
3. Information Use
Personal data is used only for the purposes permitted by the lawful basis on which it was collected. We will not sell or share donor or other personal data with non-ADF affiliated organizations or use it for fundraising on behalf of external entities.
We use cookies, log files, and clear gifs to enhance user experience by tracking traffic patterns, speeding up searches, and tailoring site content. We may also use donor information to contact donors about their gifts. With data subjects’ consent, we may use their information to update them on ADF’s work or to request support. Note that IP addresses are not used to identify users who have not registered or provided their contact information.
Registration/Application
Personal data collected during registration and application processes is used to select attendees, plan training experiences, contact them about events, and maintain subsequent relationships.
Information Requests
Personal data provided when requesting information, services, or newsletters is used to contact individuals about related events, information, or services.
Donor Information
Donor information collected for billing or donation processing is used solely for those purposes. This data is not used for other communications without express consent. Credit card information is not retained after a transaction unless the donor consents to recurring gifts.
Online Profile
Information collected via cookies, log files, and clear gifs may be used to create an online profile of our users, tracking viewing preferences to provide tailored offers and improved site content.
4. Communications with Data Subjects
Special Offers and Updates
Newly registered users may receive a welcoming email to verify their password and username. With consent, established users may also receive occasional updates on products, services, urgent issues, and our newsletter. Users may opt out of these communications at any time.
Newsletter/Marketing Communications
Our newsletters and marketing communications provide updates on our projects, victories, and giving opportunities. We send these communications only to those who have expressly requested them or given permission to be contacted. Subscribers may opt out at any time.
Service Announcements
Registered users may receive service-related communications (such as notifications about temporary service suspension for maintenance) that are essential for continued service, even though they may not be opted out.
Customer Service
We regularly communicate with data subjects to provide requested services and support, responding via email or phone according to the individual’s preferences.
5. Sharing
Transfer to Third Parties
Personal data is not transferred to third parties without the data subject’s express consent or a legal obligation unless stated otherwise. However, we may disclose personal data if required by a judicial proceeding, court order, or legal process.
Aggregate Information (not personal data)
Aggregated demographic information that is not linked to any personal data may be shared.
Third Parties (Intermediaries, Service Providers, Data Processors, etc.)
We may engage third parties—for example, letter shops, shipping companies, credit card processors, or cloud-based customer relationship management systems—to perform services on our behalf. These parties are bound by contractual agreements and are prohibited from retaining or using personal data for secondary purposes.
Business Transitions
In the event of a business transition, such as a merger, acquisition, or asset sale, personal data may be among the transferred assets.
6. Data Subject Choices
Choice/Opt-out
Data subjects may opt in to receive newsletters or other information from ADF. If a person no longer wishes to receive such communications, they may opt out by contacting [email protected].
Links
This website contains links to other sites. Please note that ADF is not responsible for the privacy practices of other sites. We encourage users to review the privacy statements of every website that collects personal data. This privacy statement applies solely to ADFinternational.org. Refer to our Terms & Conditions for more details.
Surveys
Participation in site surveys is voluntary. Survey data is used to monitor or improve site usage and satisfaction.
Chat Rooms, Message Boards, and Public Forums
When posting personal data in public areas such as message boards or chat areas, users should be aware that this information can be collected and used by others, which may lead to unsolicited messages.
7. Security
ADF takes significant steps to protect data subjects’ information. When sensitive information is submitted via our website (for instance, during registration or while donating), it is encrypted using industry-standard SSL encryption. In addition, access to personal data is limited to ministry employees (subject to disciplinary actions for confidentiality breaches) and to contractors under strict confidentiality agreements. Servers storing personal data are maintained within a secure environment.
Supplementation of Information
When necessary, we may supplement the information provided by users with data from third-party sources.
ID Verification
We may use software to verify a user’s address to avoid session hijacking, hacking attempts, or other security threats.
Enhancement of Marketing Profile
With a donor’s consent, we may purchase third-party marketing data to enhance the profile of individuals in our constituent database, thereby better targeting our advertising and communications.
8. Control of Personal Data
ADF retains personal data for as long as a relationship exists or as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected. Should a data subject request deletion of their data, please note that residual data may remain in backup files.
Correcting/Updating/Deleting/Deactivating Personal Data
If personal data changes (such as zip code, phone number, email, or postal address) or if services are no longer desired, please visit https://adfinternational.org/contact/ or email [email protected] to update or delete/deactivate your personal data.
Right to Know What Personal Data ADF Holds
Data subjects have the right to request information about the personal data ADF holds about them, including its source, whether it is being processed, a description of the data, the purpose of processing, or to receive the data in a portable format. ADF will respond within 30 days to such a written request. Additional information may be required to verify identity, and under certain circumstances, ADF may request a fee for repeated requests.
Right to Prevent Direct Marketing or Profiling
Individuals can provide written notice to prevent direct marketing. Upon receipt of such a notice, ADF will remove the individual’s data from its marketing list (except for future compliance purposes). Similarly, individuals can object to the use of their information for profiling to analyze personal preferences, behavior, or attitudes.
Right to Restrict Use
Individuals have the right to restrict the use of their data if it is inaccurate, obtained unlawfully, unnecessary, or processed without a legitimate basis. They may also provide instructions regarding the handling of their data in the event of their death. Such requests should be submitted in writing.
Complaints
If you believe your information is being misused, you may lodge a complaint with the supervisory authority in your country.
Contact Information
For notices, address changes, or information requests regarding personal data, please email [email protected] or mail a letter to:
ADF International Austria gemeinnützige GmbH
Postfach 5, 1037 Wien, Österreich
FN 460299k / Gerichtsstandort Wien / Sitz Wien
Notification of Privacy Policy Changes: If we change our privacy policy, we will post the changes to this statement, the homepage, and/or other appropriate locations so that you are always aware of what information we collect, how we use it, and under what circumstances, if any, we disclose it.
9. Child Safety Standards Policy
Compliance with Child Safety Laws & Reporting
Our application complies with applicable child safety laws and regulations. We ensure that all content shared within the app is appropriate for a mixed audience, including children. User-generated content is moderated to prevent inappropriate material.
Any content involving child sexual abuse or exploitation (CSAE) is strictly prohibited. Such material will be removed immediately upon being flagged or reported, and confirmed CSAE content will be reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Child Safety Point of Contact
If you detect CSAE content, please contact us through our contact page.
Privacy and Data Protection
Our app is committed to protecting user data, particularly for children under 13, in full compliance with applicable regulations. The privacy policy is clearly displayed and accessible from both the app settings and our website. All data is encrypted during transmission and stored securely.
Ads and Monetization
Our app does not include advertising or monetized content.
Transparency and Disclosure
Detailed information is provided on our Data Safety form as required by Google Play, and our content ratings include IARC 3+, L, E, 3, 3, and USK 0.
Validation and Updates
Regular internal testing is conducted to ensure compliance with Google Play’s child safety standards, including functionality reviews and content audits. Policies are reviewed quarterly or as needed based on updated standards.
This policy was most recently updated on 1 April 2025.