TERMS OF USE
IMPORTANT -- READ THIS CAREFULLY BEFORE CONTINUING!
By using this website, you indicate your
acceptance of the following Terms of Use.
This website is owned and operated by Cybersecurity Marketing Society LLC ("us", "our", "we" or "CMS"). Please read the following Terms of Use (these "Terms") carefully before using our website, applying for membership in CMS, purchasing any of our products, programs or services, participating in any online features or programs, or otherwise using any products, programs and/or services offered by CMS (collectively, the "Web Properties"). These Terms are in effect for all of the Web Properties.
These Terms are not applicable to any other web page operated and/or owned by any entity other than CMS, including, but not limited to, any website, mobile application, blog, forum or other material operated by any third party identified on the Web Properties. When visiting these third-party websites or using these third-party services, you should refer to the terms and conditions in effect for the applicable property.
PLEASE READ THESE TERMS CAREFULLY AS THEY INCLUDE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS, REMEDIES AND OBLIGATIONS. BY ACCESSING OR USING THE WEB PROPERTIES, YOU ARE ENTERING INTO A LEGAL CONTRACT WITH CMS REGARDING YOUR USE OF THE WEB PROPERTIES. BY ACCESSING OR USING THE WEB PROPERTIES, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THESE TERMS AND ALL ADDITIONAL TERMS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO ANY PORTION OF THESE TERMS, YOU SHOULD NOT ACCESS OR OTHERWISE USE THE WEB PROPERTIES.
1. CONVENIENCE AND INFORMATION ONLY. The Web Properties are provided to you as a convenience and for your information only. By merely providing access to the Web Properties, CMS does not warrant or represent that: (a) any materials, documents, images, graphics, logos, designs, audio, video and any other information provided from or on the Web Properties (collectively, the "Content") are accurate or complete; (b) the Content is up-to-date or current; (c) we have any obligation to update any Content; (d) the Content is free from technical inaccuracies or programming or typographical errors; (e) the Content is free from changes caused by a third party; (f) your access to the Web Properties will be free from interruptions, errors, computer viruses or other harmful components; (g) any information obtained in response to questions asked through the Web Properties will be accurate or complete; and/or (h) the Content is non-infringing of any third party's intellectual property rights.
2. WEB PROPERTIES USE AND CONTENT. You may view, download, copy or print a single copy of any page from the Web Properties for personal, non-commercial purposes if you do not remove, modify or change any copyright and proprietary rights notices that may be present. Except as expressly provided otherwise in these Terms, as otherwise specified in the Web Properties, or as otherwise agreed by CMS in writing, you may not otherwise use, modify, copy, print, display, distribute, publish or sell any information from the Web Properties without our express, prior written consent. YOU MAY NOT USE ANY OF THE WEB PROPERTIES FOR ANY COMMERCIAL PURPOSE.
3. UPDATES. We may make changes to or stop providing the Web Properties, the Content and/or the User Content (as defined below) described in these Terms at any time. CMS may modify these Terms from time to time. CMS will post the revised Terms on the Web Properties and update the "Last Updated" date below. For material changes, CMS will provide notice at least thirty (30) days before the changes take effect by posting on the Web Properties and, for Members, by email to the address on file. Your continued use of the Web Properties after the effective date of any modification constitutes your acceptance of the modified Terms. You are encouraged to review these Terms frequently.
4. PRIVACY. We know that privacy is very important to you, and it is very important to us as well. By providing us with your email address or other contact information, you consent to receiving electronic communications from us. We will communicate with you by email or by posting notices on the Web Properties. You agree that all agreements, notices, disclosures and other communications that we provide to you electronically satisfy any legal requirement that such communication be in writing. Personal data that you provide regarding yourself will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy available at https://www.cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com/policies/privacy-policy
5. OBJECTIONABLE MATERIAL. You acknowledge that, in using the Web Properties and accessing or using the Content and/or the User Content, you may encounter material that you deem to be disturbing, offensive or objectionable. You agree to use the Web Properties at your sole risk, and we will have no liability to you for material that you find to be disturbing, objectionable or offensive.
6. MEMBERSHIP.
(a) In addition to any free services that may be available through the Web Properties, CMS will also offer a paid membership option. The current membership tiers, eligibility criteria, fees, and benefits are posted on the Web Properties and are incorporated into these Terms by reference. CMS reserves the right to waive fees for some Members, in whole or in part, in its sole discretion. All fees are subject to change from time to time, in our sole discretion, and CMS will post any such changes on the Web Properties. To apply for membership in CMS, complete the application process described on the Web Properties.
(b) Your membership begins on the date that you are approved as a Member and continues for a period of one year, unless otherwise agreed by CMS in writing. If you do not cancel your membership by the required deadline, your membership will continue in effect for another year, and CMS will have the right to charge you a membership fee for the ensuing year.
(c) We reserve the right to establish the criteria that determine eligibility for membership in CMS, consistent with and subject to all applicable laws. Membership criteria will be set forth on the Web Properties. We reserve the right to change such membership criteria from time to time. We will make an effort to post any such changes on the Web Properties. If an individual user is approved for membership, but that individual's circumstances change (whether because they start to work for a marketing agency, vendor or other ineligible company, or otherwise) and, as a result, that individual is no longer eligible for membership in CMS, then we reserve the right to terminate that individual's membership in CMS. Following termination of membership, CMS will issue a refund of a pro rata portion of the membership fee paid by the terminated individual for the then-current year.
(d) The benefits provided to Members will be as set forth on the Web Properties. We reserve the right to change, reduce, or expand those benefits at any time and from time to time, in our sole discretion.
(e) As used in these Terms: (i) "Individual Member" means a natural person whose membership application has been approved, (ii) "Entity Member" means a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or other organization whose membership application has been approved, (iii) "Authorized User" means an employee or contractor of an Entity Member designated by the Entity Member to access and use the Web Properties under the Entity Member's account, subject to the limits posted on the Web Properties, and (iv) "Member" means an Individual Member or Entity Member, as the context requires.
(f) Entity Members may permit a number of Authorized Users (as posted on the Web Properties) to access the Web Properties under the Entity Member's account. The Entity Member is responsible for (i) ensuring that each Authorized User complies with these Terms; (ii) all acts and omissions of its Authorized Users; and (iii) promptly removing access for any Authorized User who is no longer entitled to use the account. Login credentials are personal to each Authorized User and may not be shared. Termination or expiration of the Entity Member's membership will automatically terminate access for all of its Authorized Users.
(g) Subject to your continued compliance with these Terms and payment of all applicable fees, CMS grants each Member a limited, revocable, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to access and use any member-only Content and Community Materials (as defined below) for the Member's own internal business and professional development purposes during the term of the Member's membership. This license does not include the right to reproduce, redistribute, sublicense, or create derivative works of or with any Content or Community Materials, except as expressly permitted on the Web Properties.
7. USER ACCOUNT, PASSWORD AND SECURITY. To the extent that you create a user account to access and use any of the Web Properties (a "User Account"), the following will apply:
(a) Account Setup and Credentials. To access certain types of features, the Content and the User Content available through the Web Properties and/or to purchase CMS products, programs or services, we may require the use of a username and password after setting up a User Account. You must be eighteen (18) years of age to create a User Account and use the Web Properties. We use reasonable precautions to protect the privacy of your username, password and User Account information. You, however, are ultimately responsible for protecting your username, password and User Account information from disclosure to third parties, and you are not permitted to circumvent the use of required security technologies. You agree to: (i) immediately notify CMS of any unauthorized use of your username, password or User Account, or any other breach of security; (ii) ensure that you exit from your User Account at the end of each session; and (iii) take commercially reasonable steps to safeguard the device(s) from which you access your User Account, including the use of device-level security (such as a passcode, PIN, or biometric lock) where reasonably available. While we provide certain reasonable precautions to protect your confidential information and provide suitable security, we do not and cannot guarantee or warrant that information transmitted through the Internet is secure, or that such transmissions are free from delay, interruption, interception or error.
(b) Accurate Information. In creating and using your User Account, you agree to: (i) provide true, accurate, current and complete information about yourself on any registration form required for the Web Properties (such information being the "Registration Data"); (ii) maintain and promptly update the Registration Data to keep it true, accurate, current and complete; and (iii) maintain and promptly update payment information to keep it true, accurate, current and complete. If you provide any information that is untrue, inaccurate, not current or incomplete, or if we have reasonable grounds to suspect that such information is untrue, inaccurate, not current or incomplete, then we have the right to suspend or terminate your User Account and refuse any and all current or future use of your User Account, including cancellation of any pending transaction.
(c) NON-TRANSFERABILITY OF USER ACCOUNT. User Accounts and usernames are non-transferable, and all users are obligated to take preventative measures to prohibit unauthorized users from accessing the Web Properties with their username and password.
8. FEES AND PAYMENT. Unless CMS otherwise agrees in writing, all CMS memberships are for a period of one year. If applicable, fees are charged on the first day of your membership term. All fees, billing cycles, and payment terms are as posted on the Web Properties and are incorporated into these Terms by reference. All amounts are in U.S. dollars and are exclusive of applicable taxes, duties, tariffs, and similar governmental charges, which are your responsibility. By providing a payment method, you authorize CMS to charge that payment method for all fees due. We reserve the right to change membership fees and other fees that we charge at any time and from time to time, and CMS will post the current rates on the Web Properties. If any payment is returned or if any credit card or similar payment method is rejected or denied, we reserve the right to attempt to charge any other payment method you have provided to us, to suspend or cancel your membership, and to collect any rejection or insufficient funds fee, together with reasonable costs of collection (including attorneys' fees). You must notify CMS of any billing dispute within thirty (30) days of the date of the disputed charge or you waive the right to dispute it.
9. AUTO-RENEWAL; TERMINATION.
(a) At the end of your membership term, your membership will automatically renew for another year at the then-current rate, UNLESS you cancel your membership at least 30 calendar days prior to the expiration of your then-current term.
(b) If you cancel your membership in CMS, you may continue to use the benefits that membership provides until the end of the month in which you cancelled your membership, at which time your membership in CMS will end. Except as expressly provided in Section 6(c) (Eligibility-Based Termination), CMS is not required to issue a refund, regardless of the circumstances, but we reserve the right to issue refunds as we see fit, in our sole discretion. For the avoidance of doubt, if we cancel or terminate your membership because you violated these Terms, you will not be entitled to a refund.
(c) Your failure to timely cancel your membership reaffirms that we are authorized to charge your payment method for that membership. We may submit those charges for payment and you will be responsible for those charges. This Section does not waive our right to seek payment directly from you.
(d) If you fail to cancel your membership in a timely manner and, after attempting any alternate payment methods you have provided to us pursuant to Section 8 (Fees and Payment), we are still unable to charge your payment method, then we have the right to terminate your membership. If we do that, we will send notice of termination to the email address that you have on file with us.
(e) If you receive notice of termination of your membership, or if you change your mind after cancelling your membership, you can reinstate your membership if you pay the required fee within 30 days of the date of termination or cancellation.
10. USER CONTENT.
(a) The Web Properties may now or in the future permit the submission of various types of content submitted by you and other users, including, but not limited to, documents, images, graphics, statements, reviews, ratings, opinions, personal accounts, logos, designs, videos, text files, audio files, ideas, notes, drawings, articles or stories (collectively, "User Content") and the hosting, sharing, downloading, publishing and/or republishing of such User Content. Unless you enter into a separate written agreement with CMS, we do not claim ownership in any User Content, except as set forth in Section 11 (Community Materials).
(b) WE DO NOT GUARANTEE ANY CONFIDENTIALITY WITH RESPECT TO ANY USER CONTENT THAT MAY BE POSTED ON OR ACCESSIBLE THROUGH THE WEB PROPERTIES. TO PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY AND THE PRIVACY OF OTHERS, YOU AGREE THAT YOU WILL NOT PROVIDE OR INCLUDE IN ANY USER CONTENT ANYTHING THAT CONTAINS PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION (SUCH AS NAME, PHONE NUMBER, EMAIL OR MAILING ADDRESS, SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, BANK ACCOUNT NUMBERS, ETC.) BELONGING TO YOU OR ANYONE ELSE.
(c) You will not have or obtain any rights in or to any form, media, or technology that you use or that is included on the Web Properties. You grant to CMS and its affiliates, successors and assigns the right and license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works based on, distribute, communicate to the public, perform, display and sublicense your User Content, for any purpose whatsoever, whether commercial or otherwise, including, but not limited to, incorporating your User Content into promotional, advertising and other marketing materials, in any form, medium or technology now known or later developed, for the full term of any copyrights, trademarks and other intellectual and proprietary rights that may exist in such User Content. You also warrant to CMS that any third party holder of any intellectual property rights has validly and irrevocably granted to you the right to grant the rights and licenses set forth above.
(d) We do not endorse any User Content or any opinion, recommendation or advice expressed therein, and we expressly disclaim any and all liability in connection with all User Content. CMS will not have any liability for any User Content posted to the Web Properties. You acknowledge that CMS reserves the right to pre-screen User Content and we have the right (but not the obligation) in our sole discretion to refuse, move and/or remove User Content that is available on or through the Web Properties.
11. COMMUNITY MATERIALS. Notwithstanding any other provision of these Terms, CMS will own all rights in and to any Content that CMS creates in partnership or cooperation with, or with the assistance of, any one or more of our Members or users, including, but not limited to, such things as forms, templates, courses, slides (whether for use in PowerPoint or otherwise), and/or recordings (whether audio or video) (all such Content being referred to as "Community Materials"). To the extent that you may have any rights in any Community Materials, you assign and transfer those rights to CMS. You acknowledge that CMS and its affiliates, successors and assigns will be entitled to unrestricted use of all such Community Materials for any purpose whatsoever, whether commercial or otherwise.
12. USER CONTENT GUIDELINES.
(a) If you post or upload any User Content on or to the Web Properties (including, but not limited to, any User Content contributed to or used in or as part of any Community Materials), you are solely responsible for that User Content, the consequences of posting that User Content, and your reliance on any User Content available on or through the Web Properties. CMS is not, and will not be, responsible for the consequences of any User Content posted to or available on or through the Web Properties.
(b) In consideration of your use of the Web Properties, you agree to observe, comply with and be bound by our Community Standards and Policies, available at [www.cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com/__________]. [INSERT LINK]
13. STORAGE OF USER CONTENT.
(a) Only Members may store User Content on the Web Properties. You acknowledge and agree that a third party service provider engaged by CMS will store your User Content in accordance with applicable local laws pertaining to data storage, privacy and security concerns. We only commit to storing your User Content for the duration of your membership in CMS. If you cancel your membership, or if we terminate your membership for some reason, and, in either case, you fail to reinstate your membership as provided in these Terms, then we have the right to permanently delete your User Content.
(b) For the avoidance of doubt, you acknowledge and agree that, if you fail to pay the applicable membership fee, we can delete all of your User Content 30 days after you have cancelled or we have terminated your membership. Once deleted, we will not be able to access, retrieve or recover that User Content.
14. SUBMISSIONS. If you send, transmit, post, email or otherwise convey to CMS, whether at our request or not, any suggestions, feedback, recommendations or other commentary of any kind or in any form about or concerning the Web Properties, or any of the products, programs or services offered in connection with or through the Web Properties (collectively, "Submissions"), those Submissions will be deemed, and will remain, the property of CMS. Subject to our Privacy Policy available at [www.cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com/policies/privacy-policy], no Submissions will be subject to any obligation of confidentiality on our part, nor will we be liable for the use or disclosure of any Submissions. Without limitation of the foregoing, you grant to us and our successors and assigns a royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable, non-exclusive right (including any moral rights) and license (as well as consent) to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works based on, distribute, communicate to the public, perform, display and sublicense any Submissions (in whole or in part and with or without the use of your name in conjunction therewith) anywhere in the world.
15. NOT INTENDED FOR CHILDREN. We do not collect personally identifiable information from any person that we know to be under the age of thirteen (13). Specifically, the Web Properties are not intended or designed to attract children under the age of thirteen (13). You affirm that you are more than eighteen (18) years of age, or an emancipated minor, or possess legal parental or guardian consent, and are fully able and competent to enter into the terms, conditions, obligations, affirmations, representations and warranties set forth in these Terms, and to abide by and comply with these Terms. In any case, you affirm that you are over the age of thirteen (13), as THE WEB PROPERTIES ARE NOT INTENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF THIRTEEN (13).
16. LIMITED WARRANTY; DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY.
(a) Subject to Section 13 (Storage of User Content), CMS will use commercially reasonable efforts to protect and safeguard all User Content that you post on or to the Web Properties. However, when using the Web Properties, information will be transmitted in such a way that may be beyond our control. As such, we make no warranty concerning the delay, failure, interruption or corruption of any data, the Content, the User Content, or other information transmitted in connection with the use of the Web Properties.
(b) YOU EXPRESSLY AGREE THAT, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN THESE TERMS, THE WEB PROPERTIES, THE CONTENT AND THE USER CONTENT ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" FOR YOUR USE, WITHOUT ADDITIONAL WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, UNLESS SUCH WARRANTIES ARE LEGALLY INCAPABLE OF EXCLUSION. WE MAKE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES THAT THE WEB PROPERTIES, THE CONTENT AND THE USER CONTENT, OR ANY PRODUCTS, PROGRAMS OR SERVICES OFFERED IN CONNECTION WITH OR THROUGH THE WEB PROPERTIES, ARE OR WILL REMAIN UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE, THAT DEFECTS WILL BE CORRECTED, OR THAT THE WEB PAGES AVAILABLE ON OR THROUGH THE WEB PROPERTIES, OR THE SERVERS USED IN CONNECTION WITH THE WEB PROPERTIES, ARE OR WILL REMAIN FREE FROM ANY VIRUSES, WORMS, TIME BOMBS, DROP DEAD DEVICES, TROJAN HORSES, OR OTHER HARMFUL COMPONENTS. WE DO NOT GUARANTEE THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO ACCESS OR USE THE WEB PROPERTIES AT TIMES OR LOCATIONS OF YOUR CHOOSING, OR THAT WE WILL HAVE ADEQUATE CAPACITY FOR THE WEB PROPERTIES AS A WHOLE OR IN ANY SPECIFIC GEOGRAPHIC AREA.
17. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. IN NO EVENT WILL WE BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM YOUR USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE WEB PROPERTIES, THE CONTENT AND/OR THE USER CONTENT PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE WEB PROPERTIES OR FOR ANY OTHER CLAIM RELATED IN ANY WAY TO YOUR USE OF THE WEB PROPERTIES, CONTENT AND/OR USER CONTENT, AND/OR ANY PRODUCTS, PROGRAMS OR SERVICES OBTAINED THROUGH THE WEB PROPERTIES. ADDITIONALLY, WE WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR NEGATIVE REPERCUSSIONS TO ANY PARTY BASED ON THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE WEB PROPERTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOST GOODWILL OR LOST PROFITS. WE WILL BE LIABLE ONLY TO THE EXTENT OF ACTUAL DAMAGES INCURRED BY YOU, NOT TO EXCEED THE GREATER OF (A) THE AMOUNT YOU ACTUALLY PAID TO US FOR ANY PRODUCTS, PROGRAMS OR SERVICES DURING THE IMMEDIATELY PRIOR TWELVE (12) MONTHS OR (B) ONE HUNDRED U.S. DOLLARS (US$100.00). WE WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY PERSONAL INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE CAUSED BY YOUR USE OR MISUSE OF THE WEB PROPERTIES, THE CONTENT, THE USER CONTENT AND/OR ANY PRODUCTS, PROGRAMS OR SERVICES. REMEDIES UNDER THESE TERMS ARE EXCLUSIVE AND ARE LIMITED TO THOSE EXPRESSLY PROVIDED FOR IN THESE TERMS. BECAUSE SOME STATES OR JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, IN SUCH STATES OR JURISDICTIONS OUR LIABILITY WILL BE LIMITED TO THE GREATEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW.
18. INDEMNIFICATION. You agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless CMS and its directors, officers, owners, members, managers, employees and agents from and against any and all claims, demands, suits, proceedings, liabilities, judgments, losses, damages, expenses and costs (including, but not limited to, reasonable attorneys' fees) assessed or incurred by us, directly or indirectly, with respect to or arising out of: (i) your failure to comply with these Terms; (ii) your breach of your obligations under these Terms; (iii) your use of the rights granted hereunder, including, but not limited to, any claims made by any third parties; and/or (iv) any claim that your User Content caused damage to a third party, including, but not limited to, reputational harm.
19. THIRD PARTY CONTENT AND THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS.
(a) We may provide hyperlinks to other websites maintained by third parties, or may provide third party content on the Web Properties by framing or other methods (collectively, "Third Party Content"). In addition, the Web Properties may include certain applications, features, programs and services provided by third parties (collectively, the "Third Party Applications"). We do not monitor Third Party Content or Third Party Applications and can make no guarantee as to the accuracy or completeness of such Third Party Content or Third Party Applications. THE LINKS TO THIRD PARTY WEBSITES, ANY THIRD PARTY CONTENT, AND ANY THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS ARE PROVIDED FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE AND INFORMATION ONLY. THE CONTENT ON ANY LINKED WEBSITE OR IN ANY THIRD PARTY APPLICATION IS NOT UNDER OUR CONTROL AND WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF LINKED WEBSITES AND/OR THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS, INCLUDING ANY FURTHER LINKS CONTAINED IN A THIRD PARTY WEBSITE. WE MAKE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES IN CONNECTION WITH ANY THIRD PARTY CONTENT OR THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS, WHICH AT ALL TIMES AND IN EACH INSTANCE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE". THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS MAY BE SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OR AGREEMENTS BETWEEN YOU AND THE PROVIDER OF SUCH THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS, AND YOU AGREE TO FULLY COMPLY WITH ALL SUCH ADDITIONAL TERMS, CONDITIONS AND AGREEMENTS. IF YOU DECIDE TO ACCESS ANY OF THE THIRD PARTY WEBSITES LINKED ON OR THROUGH THE WEB PROPERTIES, ANY THIRD PARTY CONTENT, AND/OR ANY THIRD PARTY APPLICATION, YOU DO SO ENTIRELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.
(b) If a third party should link to or refer to the Web Properties, it is not necessarily an indication of an endorsement, authorization, sponsorship, affiliation, joint venture or partnership by or with us. In most cases, we are not even aware that a third party has linked to or refers to the Web Properties.
20. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.
(a) The Content of the Web Properties is intellectual property that we own, control and/or license. All applicable intellectual property laws, including, but not limited to, copyright laws, protect our rights in and to the Content. No portion of the Content and/or the User Content may be reproduced in any form or by any means, except as provided in Section 2 (Web Properties Use and Content) and elsewhere in these Terms.
(b) CMS is the copyright owner or authorized licensee of all trademarks, service marks and logos used and displayed on the Web Properties. All trademarks and service marks of CMS that may be referred to on the Web Properties are the property of CMS. Other parties' trademarks and service marks that may be referred to on the Web Properties are the property of their respective owners. Nothing on the Web Properties should be construed as granting, by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or right to use any of CMS' trademarks, service marks or copyrights without our prior written permission. We aggressively enforce our intellectual property rights. Neither CMS' name nor any of CMS' other trademarks, service marks or copyrighted materials may be used in any way, including in any advertising, hyperlink, publicity or promotional materials of any kind, whether relating to the Web Properties or otherwise, without our prior written permission, except that a third party website that desires to link to the Web Properties and that complies with the requirements of Section 19 (Third Party Content and Third Party Applications) above may use the name "CMS" or the title of any Content in or as part of that link.
21. COPYRIGHT COMPLAINTS.
(a) CMS will not tolerate copyright infringement and reserves the right to block, disable or otherwise remove any Content or User Content uploaded to or posted on the Web Properties as well as terminate your access to the Web Properties if you engage in copyright or other intellectual property infringement. The law provides for civil and criminal penalties for copyright and other intellectual property law infringements. Displaying, performing, storing, copying, distributing and/or otherwise making available or using any Content or User Content from the Web Properties is prohibited, unless specifically authorized by CMS in writing. Accordingly, no such Content or User Content may be used on another website or any mobile application without express written permission from CMS.
(b) CMS will not permit any Content or User Content known by us to be infringing to remain on the Web Properties.
22. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MACHINE LEARNING. You may not use the Content, the User Content of others, any Community Materials, or any other materials available on or through the Web Properties to train, develop, fine-tune, or evaluate any artificial intelligence or machine learning model or system without CMS's prior written consent. You may not use any automated tools (including AI agents or bots) to scrape, harvest, or extract content from the Web Properties. CMS may, in its sole discretion, use User Content, Community Materials, and aggregated or de-identified usage data to operate, improve, secure, and develop the Web Properties and CMS's products, programs, and services, including through the use of machine learning techniques, in each case consistent with our Privacy Policy.
23. MOBILE SERVICES.
(a) The Web Properties may include or promote certain features and services that may be available via your mobile phone, including, but not limited to: (i) the ability to upload to the Web Properties via your mobile phone, (ii) the ability to receive and reply to messages and to send content and messages using text messaging, and (iii) the ability to access and use the Web Properties from your mobile phone (collectively, "Mobile Services"). Your carrier's normal messaging, data and other rates and fees will apply. Your carrier may prohibit or restrict certain Mobile Services and certain Mobile Services may be incompatible with your carrier or mobile device. You should check with your carrier to find out what plans are available and how much they cost. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. By using the Mobile Services, you agree that we may communicate with you regarding the Web Properties and our partners by SMS, MMS, text message or other electronic means to your mobile device, and that certain information about your usage of the Mobile Services will be communicated to us.
(b) Upon submission of your phone number to obtain Mobile Services, you may receive an SMS text message requiring a confirmation response from your mobile phone or device. Your text message confirmation response will constitute an agreement to comply with and be bound by these Terms. Text "STOP" from your mobile phone and we will unsubscribe you from our SMS text messaging service. You will receive an OPT-OUT confirmation message and will not receive any additional messages from us unless and until you re-register on or through the Web Properties or you initiate additional text requests. From your mobile phone, you may request additional information at any time by texting HELP.
(c) You agree that, in connection with the Mobile Services for which you are registered, we may send communications to your mobile device regarding us or other parties. Further, we may collect information related to your use of the Mobile Services.
24. TERMINATION OF SERVICE. We may terminate your right to access portions of the Web Properties at any time, without notice, for conduct that we believe violates these Terms and/or is harmful to other users of the Web Properties, to us, to our partners, licensors or suppliers, to other users, to the business of our Internet service provider, or to other information providers.
25. ADDITIONAL REMEDIES. You acknowledge that your conduct that is inconsistent with these Terms may cause CMS irreparable damage for which remedies other than monetary relief may be inadequate. In such instances, you agree that we may seek injunctive or other equitable relief seeking to restrain such conduct without the necessity of proving actual harm or posting a bond.
26. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION. You agree that all matters relating to your access to, or use of, the Web Properties will be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware. You agree and hereby submit to the exclusive personal jurisdiction and venue of the state and federal courts in Wilmington, Delaware, with respect to such matters.
27. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. CMS administers and operates the Web Properties from the United States. Although the Web Properties are accessible worldwide, not all features, products, or services discussed, referenced, provided, or offered through or on the Web Properties are available to all persons in all geographic locations, or appropriate or available for use outside the United States. We make no representation that any Content, User Content or other materials on the Web Properties are appropriate or available for use in jurisdictions outside the United States. You should contact CMS for information regarding the products, programs and services that may be available to you, if any. CMS reserves the right to limit, in its sole discretion, the provision and quantity of any feature, product, or service to any person or geographic area. Any offer for any feature, product or service made on or through the Web Properties is void where prohibited or illegal. If you choose to access the Web Properties from outside the United States, you do so on your own initiative and you are solely responsible for complying with applicable local laws. CMS is not responsible for your violation of law.
28. EXPORT RESTRICTIONS. Any software and all underlying information and technology that you download or view from any of the Web Properties or in connection with any of the services that we provide (collectively, the "Software or Technical Data") may be subject to U.S. export controls, including the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. §§ 4801 et seq.) and the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. Parts 730-774), and may be subject to export or import regulations in other countries. You are solely responsible for complying with all trade regulations and laws, both foreign and domestic, in your use and viewing of the Web Properties, the Content, the User Content, and any of our products or services, including, but not limited to, Software or Technical Data. Except as authorized by law, you agree and warrant not to export or re-export any Software or Technical Data to any country, or to any person, entity, or end-user subject to U.S. export controls, including, but not limited to, persons or entities listed on the U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Export Administration's Denied Parties List and the U.S. Department of Treasury's Specially Designated Nationals. You further represent and warrant that no U.S. federal agency has suspended, revoked, or denied your export privileges.
29. CUSTOMER COMMENTS. We welcome the submission of comments, information or feedback through the Web Properties. By submitting comments, information or feedback to us through email and/or the Web Properties, you agree that the information submitted will be subject to our Privacy Policy located at [https://www.cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com/policies/privacy-policy].
Your Consent To These Terms of Use
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Effective as of: June 8, 2026
Last updated: June 8, 2026
Cybersecurity Marketing Society — Community Standards and Policies
Last Updated: June 8, 2026
Section 1: Introduction
The Cybersecurity Marketing Society ("CMS" or the "Society") is a community of marketing professionals and consultants in the cybersecurity industry. The Society brings together its members through private Slack channels, virtual meetups, regional in-person gatherings, educational resources, and other community offerings. These Community Standards and Policies (the "Community Standards") set forth the expectations, rules, and guidelines that govern all members' participation in the Society's community spaces, whether online or offline.
By joining, accessing, or participating in any CMS community space, event, or platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by these Community Standards. CMS reserves the right to update or modify these Community Standards at any time, and members are expected to adhere to the most current version in effect.
Section 2: Applicability
These Community Standards apply to all CMS activities, events, and spaces, including but not limited to: online events such as virtual meetups, webinars, roundtables, and workshops; offline events such as regional in-person gatherings, conferences, and networking sessions; virtual spaces, including CMS's Slack workspace, social media channels, and any other collaborative or communication platforms operated by or on behalf of CMS; and any communication, whether digital or analog, carried out in the context of CMS business or community activity.
These Community Standards apply to all individuals who engage with the CMS community, including but not limited to: CMS staff, leadership, and advisors; all members, whether under a complimentary legacy membership or a paid annual membership; partners, sponsors, and supporters; speakers, presenters, and panelists; volunteers, contractors, and event guests. In general, these Community Standards apply to individuals and their behavior. However, if an individual's actions are made on behalf of or in representation of their company or employer, CMS may enforce these Community Standards against both the individual and the company.
Section 3: Community Values
CMS is built on a foundation of trust, professional respect, and shared purpose. CMS strives to create an environment where every member feels welcomed, feels that they belong, and is respected as a professional. When members feel welcome and safe, they are more comfortable sharing their experiences and knowledge, asking questions, and acknowledging what they do or do not know. To that end, we ask all members to uphold the following core values:
Respect. Communicate with empathy, kindness, and openness. Treat others as you would like to be treated, and create a space where people lift each other up and encourage each other's work.
Professionalism. Maintain the integrity of the community as a space for collegial, constructive exchange among cybersecurity marketing professionals. Members should use professional expression in all community interactions.
Curiosity. Approach conversations with humility and a desire to learn. Seek out new knowledge, ask questions, and support others in their learning journey.
Authenticity. Be truthful about yourself and your work. Members should accurately represent their professional affiliations, whether in the capacity of employment, consulting, or investment, and be truthful about the work they have done. Use your real name, company name, and an accurate profile in the CMS Slack community and other community platforms.
Transparency. Share insights honestly and credit sources and affiliations when appropriate. Strive to contribute more to the community than you receive from it, as the strength of our community lies in collective effort and shared knowledge.
Welcome Different Perspectives: Differences in perspectives, backgrounds, and opinions add to individual learning, growth, and for promoting innovation and creativity within the Society and the cybersecurity marketing profession as a whole.
Section 4: Healthy Engagement and Communication
CMS does not expect its members to agree on everything. Healthy tension in collegial discussion can contribute to community growth, but unhealthy conflict can have a chilling effect. Members are expected to aim for positive, civil discourse that is constructive and informative, with the understanding that diversity of thought strengthens the community.
Listen, Bring Others Along, and Be Kind. Those in our community should be ready to listen and engage. Be mindful of preconceived judgments or assumptions, and ask questions in order to learn. Encourage others to participate by bringing them into the conversation and creating space for them to share their ideas. Avoid dominating conversations or engaging in behaviors that prevent others from participating.
Practice Proper Messaging Etiquette. Members should ensure their questions and contributions are carefully considered. In Slack and other messaging platforms, send your question in a single message, use threads to keep discussions organized, and post in the appropriate channels. Do not seek extra attention by tagging individuals, double-posting, or bumping your message by sending to the channel. Stay on-topic within each channel and follow any channel-specific guidelines.
Default to Public Channels. Members are encouraged to keep interactions public in CMS community spaces. If someone is directly messaging you in a way that does not uphold the values of the community or that makes you uncomfortable, you are encouraged to report it to CMS.
Engage Authentically
Members should respond to posts and discussions in their own voice. AI tools may be useful for drafting or refining ideas, but they should not be used to mass-generate replies, automate engagement, or create the appearance of personal participation. Community conversations work best when responses are thoughtful, relevant, and genuinely human.
Section 5: Confidentiality and Privacy
Due to the nature of the cybersecurity industry and the trust that underpins this community, confidentiality is of paramount importance to CMS.
Community Content Is Confidential. Content and discussions shared within the community are for members only and may not be copied, reproduced, or distributed outside the community without express permission from CMS. When communicating with other members in a members-only space, such as CMS's private Slack channels, information discussed should remain within that space and not be shared externally, unless explicit permission is granted.
Member Personal Information. CMS maintains a high level of confidentiality regarding its members' personal information, recognizing that cybersecurity professionals and marketers may be subject to unique professional sensitivities. Member information, including contact details, employer, titles, and membership status, should be treated as confidential and may only be shared with the express consent of the individual member. Without consent, you may not share personal information of other members.
Employer Confidential Information. Members are responsible for ensuring that they have the right to share any information they post within the community. Members must not disclose confidential information belonging to their employers or other third parties. CMS is not liable for disclosures made by members.
No Screenshots or Recordings. Members may not take or share screenshots, screen recordings, or audio transcripts or recordings of CMS virtual or in-person events, Slack channels, website pages, or other online communication spaces without the express consent of CMS.
Discuss Scenarios Generally. When discussing professional matters, do not mention names of clients, firms, or colleagues by name. Instead, discuss scenarios generally and anonymize identifying details.
If there is uncertainty about the confidentiality expectations in any CMS event, discussion, or space, members should seek clarification from CMS staff.
Section 6: Prohibited Conduct
CMS is committed to supporting a productive and safe environment for everyone. The following conduct is prohibited in all CMS community spaces, events, and activities:
Harassment, Bullying, Threats, and Violence
Members shall not engage in harassment, bullying, threatening, or violent behavior of any kind. Harassment includes but is not limited to: making disrespectful or hurtful comments about someone's gender, sexual orientation, disability, appearance, age, race, religion, or other protected characteristics; making threats of violence or encouraging violence against anyone; intentionally intimidating others; stalking or persistently following someone; continuously disrupting conversations; sharing private messages without consent; making unwelcome remarks about someone's lifestyle choices; and using one's status or power to intimidate or coerce someone else to agree or comply.
Sexual Harassment
Unwelcome sexual or romantic attention, contact, behavior, or advances are inappropriate in all CMS spaces. This includes comments about someone's appearance, touching someone without consent, suggestive sexual comments, making sexual gestures, and any nonconsensual sexual contact. CMS also prohibits unwanted expressions of attraction, desire, requests for romantic relationships, marriage proposals, sexual advances, innuendo, or lewd remarks within its community spaces.
Hate Speech and Discrimination
CMS does not tolerate hateful, demeaning, or discriminatory speech or behavior. Prohibited conduct includes discrimination, offensive comments, epithets, slurs, or negative stereotyping based on race, color, caste, ethnicity, immigration status, national origin, religion or faith, sex or gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or medical condition, socioeconomic status, age, weight or size, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, educational background, or any other protected class as determined by applicable law.
No Solicitation, Self-Promotion, or Sales Pitching
The CMS community exists for the professional development and peer connection of cybersecurity marketing professionals. It is not a platform for lead generation, sales, or commercial promotion. Members must not solicit other members for services, products, or business opportunities, whether inside or outside the CMS platform, if the relationship originated through CMS. Members must not post self-promotional products, services, or sales-focused content unless specifically authorized by CMS in designated channels or areas. Members must refrain from sending unsolicited comments or direct messages for business or sales purposes. Any vendors, recruiters, or individuals found soliciting members in violation of this provision may be permanently banned from the community.
No Use of Community Information for External Purposes
Members are prohibited from using information gained inside the Society to sell externally or to otherwise exploit for commercial gain outside the community. This includes leveraging member contact information, discussions, proprietary insights, or any other community-sourced information for purposes outside the scope of genuine peer-to-peer professional engagement within the Society.
Inauthentic Behavior
The following behaviors are considered inauthentic and may result in enforcement action: impersonating another individual or role; falsely claiming to work for an organization with which you have no affiliation; taking credit for someone else's ideas or work, including plagiarism; sharing or making copies of someone else's work product without approval or consent; misrepresenting your relationship with CMS, such as claiming to be a speaker, sponsor, or official representative when you are not; and implying support or endorsement from CMS of yourself, your work, or your company without authorization.
Disruptive Behavior
Members shall not inhibit the normal flow of community activity with disruptive behavior. This includes spamming, posting excessive or gratuitously repetitive content, disregarding channel guidelines or community etiquette, and engaging in any activity that disrupts or hinders other members' experience or enjoyment of CMS events and spaces.
Illegal or Unethical Behavior
Members shall not engage in illegal or unethical behavior and must comply with all applicable laws and regulations when engaging in CMS events, activities, and spaces. Illegal content or behavior is strictly prohibited on CMS's communication platforms and workspaces. Members must not post or share anything that contains software viruses, malicious code, or any other harmful material that could put other members, the CMS platform, or CMS's services at risk.
Sharing of Harmful, Offensive, or Illegal Content
Members must not share content that is excessively gruesome, shocking, sadistic, or gratuitously graphic. Content depicting or promoting violence, criminal activity, self-harm, drug abuse, or exploitation of any kind is strictly prohibited. The sharing of sexually explicit content or nudity within CMS community spaces is prohibited.
Section 7: Intellectual Property
CMS owns all CMS-created materials, including materials created in partnership with members, such as templates, courses, recordings, slides, and other educational or community resources. Members may not redistribute, copy, or commercially exploit CMS-created materials without the express written consent of CMS.
Members retain ownership of the content they post within the community, subject to a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, sublicensable, and transferable license granted to CMS to use, copy, modify, distribute, and publish such content for the purposes of operating, promoting, and improving the Society and its offerings. This license survives termination of a member's membership with regard to content provided prior to termination.
Members must not violate the intellectual property rights of others, including copyrights, patents, trademarks, trade secrets, or other proprietary rights. Members must not copy or distribute the posts or other content of fellow members without the express permission of the content owner.
Section 8: Employer Compliance
CMS does not have insight into codes of conduct or other compliance requirements imposed by members' employers or professional affiliations. Members who engage with CMS are responsible for ensuring that they never engage in activity that could put their employer or employment at risk. CMS encourages all members to read, understand, and comply with their employer's policies, including antitrust policies, data use policies, and privacy policies. Members must not reveal or exchange information that could violate terms of employment, such as sharing trade secrets or internal-only documentation that has not been approved for external circulation.
Section 9: Compliance with Laws and Antitrust
Members must comply with all applicable laws, including privacy laws, intellectual property laws, anti-spam laws, export control laws, and all other applicable laws and regulatory requirements.
CMS does not play a role in the competitive decisions of its members, sponsors, or partners. Members shall not share information, collude, or encourage any particular business practice that could constitute an antitrust violation. This includes any messages or discussions that encourage or facilitate agreements on price fixing, boycotts, market allocation, or other conduct intended to restrict free trade. Members who become aware of activity that could constitute an antitrust violation must bring it to the attention of CMS immediately.
Section 10: USMCA Digital Trade Compliance
CMS operates as a cross-border digital community with members located world wide. CMS's operations and members' participation in the Society's digital platforms are subject to, without limitation, the digital trade provisions set forth in Chapter 19 of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement ("USMCA"), which entered into force on July 1, 2020.
Personal Information Protection. Consistent with USMCA Article 19.8, CMS is committed to protecting the personal information of its members in accordance with applicable legal frameworks governing data privacy in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. CMS's collection, use, and processing of members' personal information shall adhere to the key data protection principles recognized under USMCA Article 19.8(3), including: limitation on collection; choice; data quality; purpose specification; use limitation; security safeguards; transparency; individual participation; and accountability. CMS shall publish information on the personal information protections it provides to members, including how a member may pursue a remedy and how CMS complies with applicable legal requirements, consistent with USMCA Article 19.8(5). Members located in Mexico and Canada are advised that their personal information may be transferred to, stored in, and processed in the United States in connection with CMS's operation of its digital platforms and community spaces, and that such cross-border transfers are conducted in accordance with the provisions described herein.|
Cross-Border Data Transfers. In accordance with USMCA Article 19.11, CMS supports the free flow of information across the borders of its member countries and shall not impose unnecessary restrictions on the cross-border transfer of information by electronic means where such transfer is for the conduct of the Society's activities. Members acknowledge that participation in CMS's digital platforms, including Slack, email communications, and virtual events, necessarily involves the cross-border transfer of data, including personal information, between the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Any restrictions on cross-border flows of personal information shall be necessary and proportionate to the risks presented, consistent with the principles set forth in USMCA Article 19.8(3).
Data Localization. Consistent with USMCA Article 19.12, CMS does not require members or service providers to use or locate computing facilities in any particular USMCA member country's territory as a condition for participation in the Society. CMS's digital infrastructure, including its Slack workspace, website, and other platforms, may utilize computing facilities located in any USMCA member country or elsewhere, and members' data may be stored and processed in any such location.
Cybersecurity. In accordance with USMCA Article 19.15, CMS recognizes that threats to cybersecurity undermine confidence in digital trade and in the Society's digital community. CMS shall endeavor to employ risk-based approaches that rely on consensus-based standards and risk management best practices to identify and protect against cybersecurity risks and to detect, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity events affecting its platforms and members' data. CMS encourages all members to adopt similar risk-based cybersecurity practices in connection with their participation in the Society's digital spaces, including the use of strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and vigilance against phishing and social engineering attacks.
Unsolicited Commercial Communications. Consistent with USMCA Article 19.13, CMS shall adopt and maintain measures to limit unsolicited commercial electronic communications sent to its members. Members shall not use CMS's platforms to send unsolicited commercial electronic messages to other members, and CMS reserves the right to take enforcement action against members who violate this provision, in addition to any applicable penalties under the anti-solicitation provisions set forth in Section 6.4 of these Community Standards.
Compatibility of Privacy Regimes. CMS recognizes that the United States, Mexico, and Canada maintain different legal approaches to protecting personal information. Consistent with USMCA Article 19.8(6), CMS shall endeavor to develop and maintain practices that promote compatibility between these different data protection regimes, including by reference to international frameworks such as the APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules system. Members who are subject to the data protection laws of Mexico (including the Ley Federal de Protección de Datos Personales en Posesión de los Particulares) or Canada (including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, or PIPEDA) are responsible for ensuring that their participation in CMS's digital platforms complies with the requirements of such laws.
Section 11: Security Notice
CMS's communication platforms, including Slack, email, and other digital tools, may not support end-to-end encryption. Members should not share documents or information that require end-to-end encryption through CMS's communication platforms. Members are responsible for exercising appropriate judgment regarding the sensitivity of information they share within CMS spaces.
Section 12: Reporting Violations CMS is committed to maintaining the integrity of its community and takes all reports of violations seriously. If you experience or witness behavior that violates these Community Standards, or if you have any related concerns, you are encouraged to report it to CMS.
How to Report. Violations may be reported to any CMS staff member via email at Heythere@cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com, Slack direct message, or in person at a CMS event. Reports should include the name of the person who allegedly committed the violation (if known), a description of what happened, and, if available, any documented evidence such as screenshots, photos, or links. The person reporting may be a witness, bystander, or the individual directly affected.
Confidentiality. CMS will keep confidential the identity of the person reporting, if requested. Anonymous reports are permitted; however, CMS's ability to investigate fully may be limited when a report is made anonymously.
Investigation. Upon receiving a report of a potential violation, CMS will review the incident to determine whether these Community Standards were violated. If the violation occurred on Slack, email, or another platform with written documentation, CMS will review the available evidence. If the violation occurred in person, CMS may speak with the person who reported the incident, witnesses, and the individual who allegedly committed the violation. The determination will be made by CMS staff and/or advisory board.
Section 13: Enforcement and Consequences
CMS has sole discretion in determining whether these Community Standards have been violated and in selecting the appropriate enforcement action. Enforcement actions are graduated and may include any of the following, depending on the severity, frequency, and nature of the violation:
Verbal or Written Warning. For violations that cause discomfort or are inappropriate but do not cause physical harm, lasting mental anguish, or material damage to CMS, the member will be informed that their behavior is not acceptable and asked to refrain from such conduct. A written summary of the warning will be provided via email. Where possible, the member will be given an opportunity to rectify the situation, such as deleting an offending post or issuing an apology.
Content Removal. CMS reserves the right to remove, modify, or restrict the visibility of any content that violates these Community Standards, at any time and without prior notice.
Temporary Suspension. Following repeated violations or a single serious violation, a member may be temporarily suspended from specific CMS events, activities, or spaces, including Slack access. The duration of such suspension will be determined by CMS in its sole discretion.
Permanent Ban. If a member has multiple violations or if a single violation is sufficiently severe—including where the member's actions or behavior caused physical harm, mental anguish to others, or material damage to CMS—CMS may permanently ban the member from all CMS events, spaces, and activities.
Membership Revocation. CMS may revoke a member's membership as a consequence of serious or repeated violations. If membership is revoked, the individual will be removed from CMS's member database, all membership benefits will be forfeited, and access to all CMS community spaces will be terminated. CMS is not obligated to provide a refund of membership fees in the event of a membership revocation for cause.
Third-Party Reporting. CMS may report a member's violation to the member's employer if the violation involves or is undertaken on behalf of the member's company. CMS may also report certain actions or behavior to law enforcement or other authorities if the conduct is illegal, harmful to others, or creates a liability for CMS.
All determinations regarding violations and enforcement are made at CMS's sole and absolute discretion and are final, subject only to the appeals process described below.
Section 14: Retaliation Prohibited
Retaliation against any person who reports a potential violation of these Community Standards is strictly prohibited and will itself constitute a violation of these Community Standards. It is also against CMS policy to report an incident in bad faith. CMS will take action against any person found to be engaging in retaliation or making a willful bad-faith report.
Section 15: Appeals Process
If a member believes that the determination of a violation or the enforcement consequence imposed was unwarranted, they have the right to submit one appeal. The appeal must be submitted in writing to CMS via email at heythere@cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com and must include an explanation of why the member believes the determination was incorrect or the consequence was disproportionate. Appeals will be reviewed by at least one CMS staff member or advisor who was not involved in the initial investigation and determination. The decision on appeal is final and binding.
Section 16: Preventing Violations and Rebuilding Trust
CMS is a community built on trust. In some cases, violations may be made unintentionally or with positive intent. However, all community members must be held accountable for their actions, regardless of intent.
Members can take the following steps to ensure compliance and to rebuild trust if a violation has occurred: review these Community Standards and ensure they are fully understood, and if there is any confusion, seek clarification from a member of CMS staff; if it is not clear whether specific behavior is appropriate, reach out to CMS staff before acting; and if a violation has occurred, take steps to understand the cause, repair any potential damage (such as deleting a post or acknowledging the violation), and continue healthy engagement in the community. Trust can be rebuilt through healthy engagement over time.
Section 17: Disclaimer
The information shared within CMS community spaces, including Slack channels, events, and forums, contains personal opinions and views of individual members. Opinions expressed by members are not necessarily condoned, approved, or reflective of the official views of CMS. CMS is not liable for the content posted by its members within the community.
These Community Standards are not a complete list of all rules and regulations applicable to CMS community participation. CMS reserves the right to take action against any member whose conduct, in CMS's sole judgment, is detrimental to the community, its members, or the reputation or mission of the Cybersecurity Marketing Society, regardless of whether such conduct is specifically addressed herein.
Section 18: Contact Us
If you have any questions about these Community Standards, please contact us at heythere@cybersecuritymarketingsociety.com.
