Privacy Policy

Last updated: May 21, 2026

This Privacy Policy describes how Verified Web Solutions, LLC ("BornStateside," "we," "us," or "our") collects, uses, and shares information when you visit BornStateside.com ("the Site"). By using the Site, you agree to the practices described here.

1. Information We Collect

Information you provide

• Account registration: email address and password when you create an account.
• Product suggestions & flags: any information you submit when suggesting a product or flagging an inaccuracy.
• Contact & feedback: messages you send us by email or contact forms.

Information collected automatically

• Log data: IP address, browser type, pages visited, referring URL, and timestamps.
• Cookies & local storage: we use cookies and localStorage for session management, wishlist persistence for guests, and site preferences.
• Analytics: we use privacy-respecting analytics to understand aggregate traffic patterns. Automated browsers (e.g., Playwright) are excluded from tracking.

2. How We Use Your Information

• Operate and improve the Site, including the StatesideScore™ database.
• Authenticate your account and maintain your wishlist.
• Respond to your messages and process product suggestions.
• Understand how users navigate the Site (aggregate analytics only).
• Send transactional emails (e.g., account confirmation, password reset). We do not send marketing email without your explicit consent.
• Comply with legal obligations and enforce our Terms of Service.

3. Affiliate Links & Third-Party Tracking

When you click an affiliate link, you are redirected to a third-party retailer. That retailer may set its own cookies to attribute the sale. We do not control third-party tracking; please review the retailer's privacy policy before purchasing.

4. Sharing of Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share it with:

• Service providers: hosting, database, and email vendors that process data on our behalf under confidentiality obligations.
• Legal requirements: if required by law, court order, or to protect the rights, property, or safety of BornStateside or others.
• Business transfers: if BornStateside is acquired or merged, your information may be transferred as part of that transaction. We will notify you via email or prominent site notice.

5. Cookies & Opt-Out

We use first-party cookies for authentication and preferences. Analytics uses minimal, anonymized identifiers. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some Site features (such as staying logged in) may not work correctly. Guest wishlists are stored in localStorage and are cleared when you clear your browser data.

6. Data Retention

We retain account information for as long as your account is active. If you delete your account, we will delete your personal data within 30 days, except where retention is required by law or for legitimate business purposes (e.g., fraud prevention).

7. Security

We use industry-standard measures — including encrypted connections (HTTPS), hashed passwords, and access controls — to protect your information. No method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

8. Children's Privacy

BornStateside is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child has provided us personal information, please contact us and we will delete it promptly.

9. Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have the right to access, correct, or delete your personal data, or to object to or restrict certain processing. To exercise any of these rights, email us at hello@bornstateside.com and we will respond within 30 days.

10. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will revise the "Last updated" date above. We encourage you to review this page periodically. Material changes will be communicated via email or a prominent notice on the Site.

11. Contact

Questions or requests regarding this Privacy Policy? Reach us at hello@bornstateside.com .