Privacy Policy — Families by FAJ

1. Introduction

Families by FAJ is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information with transparency and care. This policy explains what data I collect, how it is used, how it is stored, and the rights you have under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

By using this website or my services, you agree to the terms outlined in this policy.

2. What Information I Collect

  • Information you provide directly

    • Names, dates, and family details

    • Genealogy documents, photographs, certificates, and research notes

    • DNA information (if you choose to share it)

    • Email address, phone number, and correspondence

    • Payment information (processed securely by Squarespace or your chosen payment provider — I do not store card details)

  • Information collected automatically

    • Basic website analytics (pages visited, device type, browser type)

    • Cookies used by Squarespace to ensure the site functions correctly

I do not collect unnecessary data, and I never sell or share your information with third parties without your explicit consent.

3. How Your Data Is Used

I use your information only for the purposes of delivering genealogy services, including:

  • Conducting research on your behalf

  • Preparing reports, charts, and written narratives

  • Communicating with you about your project

  • Managing invoices and payments

  • Maintaining internal records for legal and tax purposes

Your data is never used for marketing unless you explicitly opt in.

4. Sharing Your Data

Your information may be shared only in the following situations:

  • With your explicit permission (e.g., sharing findings with a family member)

  • With service providers who support the website or payment processing (Squarespace, email providers)

  • Where legally required, such as tax or accounting obligations

I do not share, sell, or trade your data with any third parties for advertising or commercial gain.

5. Data Retention

I keep your data only for as long as necessary:

  • Research project files: up to 12 months after completion, unless you request deletion sooner

  • Invoices and financial records: retained for 6 years to comply with UK tax law

  • Email correspondence: retained for up to 24 months unless you request removal

  • DNA information: deleted immediately upon project completion unless you ask me to retain it

You may request deletion of your data at any time, and I will remove it unless I am legally required to keep certain records.

6. Your Rights Under UK GDPR

You have the right to:

  • Access the personal data I hold about you

  • Request corrections to inaccurate information

  • Request deletion of your data

  • Withdraw consent at any time

  • Request a copy of your data in a portable format

  • Object to certain types of processing

To exercise any of these rights, simply contact me using the details below.

7. Cookies & Analytics

This website is hosted on Squarespace, which uses cookies to:

  • Ensure the site loads and functions correctly

  • Provide anonymous analytics (page views, traffic sources, device types)

  • Maintain security and performance

I do not use advertising cookies or third‑party tracking tools.

You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings at any time.

8. Security

All digital files are stored securely with restricted access. I use reputable, secure cloud services and password‑protected systems to protect your information.

9. Contact

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your GDPR rights, you can contact me at: faj@FamiliesbyFAJ.com