Open Feed is committed to protecting your privacy while advancing open, public-interest research. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how it is used, and the steps we take to ensure all data remains anonymous, secure, and ethically handled.
Our Research Commitment
Open Feed is an independent, open-access research initiative. We collect user observations to document how algorithms shape online visibility. We do not sell data, conduct advertising, or promote policy or commercial interests.
Information We Collect
1. Observation Submissions
When you submit an observation, we may collect:
Platform name (e.g., social media, search, video)
What content you saw
What you expected to see
Any changes you noticed
These submissions are the core research data and are collected without personal identifiers.
2. Optional Contact Information
If you choose to subscribe or contact us, we may collect:
Email address
Name (optional)
Message content
This information is used only for communication and updates related to Open Feed.
What We Do Not Collect
We do not collect:
Real names tied to observations
Account usernames or IDs
Passwords
Precise location data
IP addresses linked to submissions
Behavioral tracking across websites
Your identity is never required to participate.
How We Use the Data
All collected data is used solely to:
Analyze patterns in algorithmic visibility
Aggregate observations into anonymized datasets
Support public-interest research and reporting
Share findings transparently with the public
Individual submissions are never published on their own.
Anonymization & Aggregation
All submissions are:
Anonymized at intake
Stored without identifying metadata
Aggregated before analysis or publication
Our findings reflect collective patterns, not individual behavior.
Data Sharing
Open Feed may share aggregated, anonymized findings with:
Researchers
Journalists
Educators
The public
We never share raw submissions containing identifying details.
Data Security
We use appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect stored data from unauthorized access, misuse, or loss.
Your Choices
You may:
Participate without providing contact information
Unsubscribe from emails at any time
Request deletion of any contact information you provided
To make a request, contact us using the form on our website.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect improvements or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised date.
Contact Us
If you have questions about privacy, data use, or research practices, please contact us through the website contact form.