Privacy Policy

Japan Giving Machine Initiative
Last updated: 2026-08-08

1. Purpose of This Policy

This Privacy Policy explains how the Giving Machine Initiative (“we”) handles personal information submitted through our website’s inquiry form. We comply with applicable privacy laws, including Japan’s Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI) and, where relevant, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

2. Information We Collect

Our inquiry form uses a mailto: link. When you press “Send” on our contact form, your email software opens with a pre-filled message addressed to us. You may review the message and then choose to send it through your own email application.

Because of this:

  • The website does not store your information.
  • Your information is transmitted through your own email application.

We receive the following information only after you send the email:

  • Name
  • Email address
  • Message content (including donation-related questions, if applicable)

We do not collect sensitive personal data unless you voluntarily include it.

3. Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR)

For visitors from the European Union, we process personal data based on:

  • Consent: You voluntarily send us an email.
  • Legitimate interest: Responding to your inquiry and managing Giving Machine Initiative activities.

We do not use automated decision-making or profiling.

4. How We Use Your Information

We use your information only for:

  • Responding to your inquiry
  • Providing information related to the Giving Machine Initiative
  • Contacting you when clarification is needed

We do not use your information for marketing or advertising.

5. Data Storage and Security

Your information is stored only in our email system after you send it.
We take reasonable security measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse.
Access is limited to authorized members of the Giving Machine Initiative.

6. Sharing of Information

We never sell your personal information.
We do not provide personal information to external organizations except when necessary to respond to your inquiry — for example, when a donor asks a question that must be addressed by the applicable charity.

7. Cross-Border Data Transfers (GDPR)

If you are located in the EU, your personal data may be transferred to Japan. Japan is recognized by the European Commission as providing an adequate level of data protection.

8. Retention Period

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to respond to your inquiry and maintain appropriate records. You may request deletion at any time.

9. Your Rights (GDPR & APPI)

You may request:

  • Access to the personal information we hold
  • Correction or deletion
  • Suspension of use
  • Withdrawal of consent (GDPR)
  • Data portability (GDPR)

To exercise your rights, please contact us using the inquiry form.

10. Contact Information

For questions about this Privacy Policy or requests regarding your personal information, please contact us through the inquiry form on our website.