Information Received From Visitors
A name, phone number, or other text placed in a search box goes to the outside provider responsible for the results. Monterey People Search does not keep a separate copy of the query. When someone sends a direct message, only the information that person elects to include is received, and it is used to respond.
Data Collected Automatically
Routine server logs can contain an IP address, browser type, access time, and pages visited. Combined usage data helps with maintenance and indicates which Monterey resources visitors find useful. When enabled, cookies or similar technology may provide basic analytics and measure advertising activity.
Uses of Limited Data
Limited data is used to operate the service, diagnose problems, measure traffic, and improve pages. Visitor lists are not sold, and individual readers are not placed into personal profiles.
Outside Websites and Tools
Links may lead to government portals, Monterey County and California records offices, library collections, or outside search services. Information submitted after following a link is controlled by that destination's privacy terms. The same distinction applies to sponsored search results, which come from an outside company rather than Monterey People Search.
Who May Process Visitor Data
Hosting and support providers may process server logs for the service. Analytics or advertising providers may receive the automatically collected information described above. Visitor data may also be disclosed when valid legal process requires it, but it is not otherwise shared.
Safeguards and Retention
An encrypted connection is used to serve the site. Server logs are retained only for as long as the stated operational purposes require. Because visitor accounts are not offered, Monterey People Search does not hold a visitor password or account profile.
Visitors Under 18
The service is meant for adults and is not directed to children. Personal information is not knowingly collected from anyone younger than 18. If a minor is believed to have submitted such information, contact Monterey People Search and it will be deleted.
California Privacy Choices
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) may provide rights to know, correct, or delete personal information and to limit certain uses, subject to the law's scope and exceptions. California residents can also use the state's Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP) to send one deletion request to registered data brokers. DROP addresses data held by those brokers, not official records held by Monterey, Monterey County, or California agencies.
Because Monterey People Search retains little visitor data, a privacy request will generally concern a contact message or server log. Submit that request through the Contact page. Each government custodian remains responsible for its own records and disclosure rules.
Policy Revisions
Any revised policy will be published on this page. Using the service after a revision is posted signifies acceptance of the updated terms.