This Privacy Policy describes the data that we process to support StoryNoCost apps, websites, and related services (collectively, "StoryNoCost"). You can find additional tools and data options in the StoryNoCost settings. It explains our practices concerning the personal data we collect from you, or that you provide to us, in connection with StoryNoCost. If you do not agree with this Policy, you should not use StoryNoCost.
If you have any questions about how we use your personal data, please contact us at 18855320291@163.com.
1. Data Collection
The type of data that we collect and process depends on how you use StoryNoCost. For example, the data we collect from readers on StoryNoCost differs from that collected from authors who publish novels on the platform. Even if you do not have an account, we will still collect certain data about you when you use StoryNoCost.
The data we collect and process includes the following:
(I) Your Actions and Data You Provide
On StoryNoCost, you can read or publish novels, post comments, purchase coins for paid chapters, and more. We will collect your actions on the platform and the data you actively provide, including:
Content you create, such as novels and comments;
Metadata related to the content, such as upload location and creation date (in compliance with relevant laws and regulations);
Types of content you read or comment on;
Applications and features you use, and your actions during usage;
Your purchase and other transaction records (including credit card information);
Time, frequency, and duration of your actions.
Specially Protected Data
You may choose to provide information such as your age, gender, address, and email address. This data and certain other types of data may be subject to special protection under the laws of your jurisdiction.
(II) App, Browser, and Device Data
We will collect and receive information about the various devices you use, how you use these devices, and data generated by these devices.
The device data we collect and receive includes:
The device and software you are currently using, as well as other device characteristics;
Data related to your device's internet connection, including your IP address;
Data collected through Cookies (see Section 2) and similar technologies.
(III) Data from Business Partners, Suppliers, and Third Parties
We will collect various data and actions of yours (both on and off StoryNoCost) from business partners, suppliers, and third parties. For example, we may collect your device data, app usage information, and advertisements you view. Additionally, business partners may share other data with us, such as your email address and third-party account information.
2. Cookies
Cookies are small text files used to store data on web browsers. They are used to store and retrieve identifiers and other data on computers, phones, and other devices. Other technologies, including data we store on your web browser or device, identifiers associated with your device, and other software, are used for similar purposes. In this Policy, we refer to all these technologies as "Cookies".
We use Cookies if you have a StoryNoCost account, use StoryNoCost (including our website and apps), or visit other websites and apps that use StoryNoCost services. Cookies enable StoryNoCost to provide services to you and understand the data we receive about you, including data about your use of other websites and apps, whether you are registered or logged in.
We use Cookies to:
Verify login information;
Track traffic flow and usage patterns in connection with the Services;
Understand the total number of visitors to the Services on an ongoing basis and the types of devices used;
Monitor the performance of the Services and continuously improve them;
Customize and enhance your online experience;
Provide customer service.
You have the right to choose whether to accept Cookies. However, please note that if you choose to refuse Cookies, certain parts of StoryNoCost may not function properly. These controls are distinct from the controls offered by StoryNoCost itself.
Most devices (for mobile applications) and browsers (for web apps and pages) are initially set to accept Cookies, and you can change your Cookie settings. These settings are typically found in your browser's "Options" or "Preferences" menu. You can reset your browser to refuse all Cookies or to notify you when a Cookie is being sent.
3. Methods and Purposes of Data Processing
Based on the types of data listed in Section 1 and your actual usage scenario, we process data for the following purposes and in the following ways:
To provide StoryNoCost services, we may collect, store, share, analyze, review, and organize data when necessary. In some cases, we use both automated processing techniques and manual review processes to achieve the following purposes:
Create and maintain your account and personal homepage;
Optimize content display and recommendations;
Provide comment functions;
Offer paid novel services;
Conduct data analysis.
Additionally, we use existing data to develop, study, and test improvements to StoryNoCost. The data we hold is used for the following purposes:
Monitor whether StoryNoCost is functioning properly;
Troubleshoot issues and fix anomalies;
Test new features;
Collect feedback on StoryNoCost or its functions.
Scope of Processed Data (as listed in Section 1)
Your actions and data you provide;
App, browser, and device data;
Data from business partners, suppliers, and third parties (you can control the use of third-party data for personalized advertising).
Security and Compliance-Related Processing Purposes
We process your relevant data through automated processing and, in some cases, manual review processes to achieve the following purposes:
Verify accounts and actions;
Investigate suspicious activities;
Conduct anti-piracy operations;
Detect, prevent, and combat harmful or illegal activities;
Monitor and block spam, as well as address other security issues and poor user experiences.
Processing of Specially Protected Data
We process specially protected data in accordance with the law and only share it with third parties with your authorization to improve service quality. Processing methods include collection, storage, publication, automated processing, or manual processing in some cases.
Cross-Border Data Transfer
As StoryNoCost operates globally, with users, partners, suppliers, and employees located around the world, it is necessary for us to transfer, store, and process data across borders (including to the United States and other countries/regions) to maintain, analyze, and optimize our services.
Sharing Data with Third Parties
We share your contact information, personal data, or other information with third parties based on your requests. The type of data shared varies depending on your specific requirements. For example:
When you instruct us to pay your proceeds via PayPal, we will share your PayPal account information or other data you authorize to ensure successful payment.
4. Data Sharing
We will never sell any of your data to third parties and require partners and third parties to strictly comply with our rules regarding the use and disclosure of the data we provide.
We only share data with the following third parties:
Third-party partners who assist us in improving StoryNoCost, supporting our global operations, and providing services to users worldwide;
Third-party ad servers or ad networks (we will not provide personally identifiable data to them without your consent, except as part of specific opt-in/opt-out programs);
Members, subsidiaries, or affiliates of our corporate group (to improve and optimize StoryNoCost);
Law enforcement agencies, public authorities, tax authorities, or other organizations when required by law.
5. Data Security
We implement reasonable and appropriate technical and organizational measures to help protect personal data against unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. However, data transmission via the internet is not completely secure, and we cannot guarantee the absolute security of data transmitted through the Platform. Any transmission is at your own risk.
To help us protect your personal data, we recommend that you use a strong password, never share your password with anyone, and do not use the same password for other websites or accounts.
6. Data Management, Deletion, and Exercise of Your Rights
We provide the following tools for you to view, manage, download, and delete your personal data. You can also manage your personal data through the settings page of the product you are using. Additionally, you may have other privacy rights under applicable laws.
You can exercise your rights through the Personal Center, or by opening the client, clicking "My" - "Contact Customer Service", and sending an email to 18855320291@163.com.
(I) View and Manage Your Personal Data
You have the right to access, view, and manage your personal data through the Personal Center or by contacting customer service via email at 18855320291@163.com.
(II) Delete Your Personal Data or Account
If you wish to delete your personal data, you can:
1. Delete Specific Personal Data
We have provided a series of tools to help you delete certain personal data. For example, you can use the "Delete" button to remove books from your shelf or delete comments (once deleted, comments will no longer be visible to other users).
2. Permanently Delete Your Account
You can request permanent account deletion by sending an email to 18855320291@163.com.
Once your account is deleted, we will no longer provide you with any products or services. We will delete your personal data at your request, except as otherwise required by law. We will assist you in deleting your account data and clearing payment records for unlocked chapters. Please note that a permanently deleted account cannot be reactivated, and you will not be able to retrieve your reading, spending, or unlocking records (including remaining balances of top-up vouchers).
(III) Timeline for Data Deletion
Deletion of certain personal data is instantaneous;
The processing time for account deletion requests will not exceed 15 working days from the date of receipt.
For security purposes, you may be required to submit a written request or verify your identity before proceeding. We will respond to your request within 15 working days. If you are dissatisfied with the result, you may contact customer service to file a complaint.
7. Age Restrictions
StoryNoCost is not intended for children. This Platform is not directed at individuals under the age of 12 (or the equivalent minimum age in the relevant jurisdiction). If you believe we have collected personal data about or from a child under the applicable age, please contact us at 18855320291@163.com.
Users between the ages of 12 and 18 ("Teens") may not access or use the Service unless: (i) both the Teen and their parent or legal guardian have first agreed to these Terms of Service; and (ii) the Teen uses an account established by their parent or legal guardian, under such parent or guardian’s supervision, and with their permission. If you permit a Teen to use the Services, you hereby agree to these Terms of Service on behalf of both yourself and the Teen. You further agree that you are solely responsible for any and all use of the Service by your Teen, regardless of whether such use was authorized by you.
8. Data Retention Period
We retain your data for as long as necessary to provide you with the Service or fulfill the transactions you have requested or authorized. When we no longer need your data to provide the Service, we retain it only for so long as we have a legitimate business purpose, including complying with legal obligations, enforcing agreements, resolving disputes, and supporting the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims.
You may delete your Account, and you acknowledge that upon deletion, you will lose access to all or part of the Platform. After your Account is deleted, we may retain certain data in an aggregated and anonymized format.
9. Changes to This Policy
We will notify you before making changes to this Policy and provide you with the opportunity to review the revised Policy before continuing to use our Products.
10. Complaints
If you wish to file a complaint about how we process your personal data, please submit your complaint via email at 18855320291@163.com. We will endeavor to address your request as soon as possible. This does not prejudice your right to file a claim with your local data protection authority or follow the dispute resolution process outlined in the Terms of Service.
11. Contact Information
If you have any questions about this Policy, you can contact us as follows:
Email: 18855320291@163.com