Since your website is hosted in Switzerland and serves the Geneva region, your Privacy Policy must comply with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (nFADP/LPD) and, given the international nature of your Lodge, the EU GDPR.
For a Masonic Lodge, the policy should be transparent but professional. Here is a draft tailored to Masonry Universal Lodge No. 40.
Effective Date: March 25, 2026
Masonry Universal Lodge No. 40 ("the Lodge," "we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of our members, visiting Brethren, and interested gentlemen. This policy explains how we handle information collected through our website.
1. Data Controller
The entity responsible for processing your data under Swiss and EU data protection laws is: Masonry Universal Lodge No. 40 Geneva, Switzerland Contact: secretary@masonryuniversal.org
2. Information We Collect
We only collect data that you voluntarily provide to us:
- Contact Inquiries: If you contact us via email or a contact form, we collect your name, email address, and the content of your message to respond to your inquiry.
- Membership/Visiting Requests: For Brethren wishing to visit, we may collect Masonic standing details (Lodge name, number, and Grand Lodge affiliation).
- Technical Data: Our hosting provider may automatically collect server log files (IP address, browser type, time of access) for security and performance monitoring.
3. Purpose of Processing
We use your information strictly for:
- Responding to inquiries about Freemasonry or our Lodge.
- Verifying the credentials of visiting Brethren.
- Internal administration of Lodge communications.
- Ensuring the security and functionality of our website.
4. Legal Basis
In accordance with the Swiss nFADP and GDPR, we process data based on:
- Consent: When you contact us voluntarily.
- Legitimate Interest: To maintain the security of our digital presence and manage Lodge affairs.
5. Data Disclosure and International Transfers
We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal data. Data is only shared:
- With the Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland (GLAS) if necessary for membership verification.
- If required by Swiss law or legal process.
6. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your data against unauthorized access, loss, or alteration.
7. Your Rights
Under Swiss law, you have the right to:
- Request access to the personal data we hold about you.
- Request correction or deletion of your data.
- Withdraw your consent for future processing.
To exercise these rights, please contact the Lodge Secretary at the address provided above.
8. Cookies
This website may use "session cookies" necessary for site functionality. You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings, though some features of the site may be affected.