Online Privacy Statement
Last Updated or Reviewed: August 6, 2026
Western Washington University (WWU) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Statement explains what information we collect through websites in the wwu.edu domain, how we use it, and the choices available to you. This statement applies only to information collected through WWU websites. Some university services and affiliated organizations may have separate privacy notices.
Privacy at a Glance
When you visit a WWU website:
- We collect information about how you use our website, such as the pages you visit, your browser type, and your device.
- We use cookies and analytics tools to understand website traffic and improve the user experience.
- If you provide personal information through forms, registrations, donations, account sign-ins, or transactions, we use that information to provide the services you request.
- We may share information with trusted service providers that help us operate and improve our websites.
- We do not link website analytics data to your identity for marketing or reporting purposes.
- You can manage cookies through your browser settings and opt out of Google Analytics tracking.
What Information We Collect
Information Collected Automatically
When you visit a WWU website, our service providers and WWU may automatically collect information such as:
- Your IP address
- The website that referred you to WWU
- The date and time of your visit
- Pages you viewed
- Browser type
- Operating system
- Device type
- General demographic and interest information available through analytics tools, such as age ranges and interests
How We Collect Demographic Information
WWU uses Google Analytics and related tools that may provide anonymous, aggregated information about website visitors, including age ranges, interests, and demographics. We use this information to better understand our audiences and improve our websites and communications. We do not use this information to identify individual visitors.
Information You Choose to Provide
You may provide personal information when you:
- Sign in to password-protected services
- Complete online forms
- Join mailing lists
- Register for events
- Make payments or donations
- Request information or services
- Contact us by email or other online methods
You may choose not to provide personal information, but some services or features may not be available.
Why We Collect Information
We use information collected through our websites to:
- Operate and maintain university services
- Improve website content, performance, and accessibility
- Understand how visitors use our websites
- Respond to questions and requests
- Process transactions and registrations
- Provide newsletters, alerts, and other communications you request
- Conduct research and surveys
- Detect and prevent fraud or misuse
- Maintain the security of our systems
- Meet legal, regulatory, accreditation, and institutional requirements
If you email us, we may use your email address to respond to your inquiry or provide information you requested. We do not authorize others to use your email address for commercial purposes without your permission.
How We Share Information
WWU does not sell your personal information. We may share information with trusted service providers that help us deliver and improve our websites and services.
Examples include:
| Who May Receive Information | Why |
|---|---|
| Google Analytics | To understand website usage and traffic patterns |
| Silktide | To improve website quality, accessibility, and performance |
| Service providers working on behalf of WWU | To support website operations and services |
| Government agencies or law enforcement | When required by law or legal process |
We may also disclose information when necessary to:
- Comply with laws and legal obligations
- Respond to court orders or subpoenas
- Protect the safety of individuals
- Protect university systems and property
- Investigate fraud, security incidents, or misuse of services
Cookies and Analytics
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small files stored on your device that help websites remember information about your visit.
WWU uses cookies to:
- Remember your preferences
- Improve website functionality
- Analyze website traffic
- Understand how visitors interact with our websites
Tracking Pixels
We may use tracking pixels (sometimes called web beacons) to understand how our websites are used. In some cases, these technologies work together with cookies.
Managing Cookies
Most web browsers accept cookies automatically. You can change your browser settings to block or remove cookies. Some website features may not work properly if cookies are disabled.
How Long We Keep Information
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to:
- Provide services and support
- Meet legal and regulatory requirements
- Fulfill records retention obligations
- Protect the university's legal interests
When personal information is no longer needed, we securely delete it or remove identifying details whenever possible.
Your Privacy Choices and Rights
Depending on where you live and the laws that apply to you, you may have the right to:
- Access personal information we hold about you
- Request correction of inaccurate information
- Request deletion of personal information
- Restrict certain uses of your information
- Receive a copy of your information
- Withdraw consent when consent is the basis for processing your information
To request access to your information or exercise applicable privacy rights, contact us at Compliance.Matters@wwu.edu.
External Websites
WWU websites may contain links to websites operated by other organizations. These websites have their own privacy practices and policies. We encourage you to review their privacy statements before providing personal information.
Security
WWU uses reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect personal information. However, no method of transmitting or storing information online can be guaranteed to be completely secure.
Changes to This Privacy Statement
We may update this Privacy Statement from time to time. When we make changes, we will update the "Last Updated or Reviewed" date at the top of this page.
Manage Analytics Preferences
If you would like to prevent Google Analytics from collecting information about your website visits, you can install Google's Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on.
Questions About Your Privacy?
If you have questions about this Privacy Statement or WWU's privacy practices, please contact:
Western Washington University
516 High Street
OM 330I, MS-9015
Bellingham, WA 98225
Email: Compliance.Matters@wwu.edu
Phone: (360) 650-3065