8. MANUSCRIPT HANDLING & CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY

Effective Date: 1 January 2026

We treat every manuscript submitted to us with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.

8.1 Confidentiality

• All submitted manuscripts are treated as strictly confidential
• Manuscripts are not shared with any third party without the author’s written consent
• Our editorial and design team members sign non-disclosure agreements

8.2 File Security

• All uploaded files are stored on secure, encrypted servers
• Files are backed up daily
• Manuscripts are retained for 5 years after publication and then securely deleted unless otherwise requested

8.3 File Formats

We accept manuscripts in .docx and .doc formats. Submitted files undergo automated format validation and are stored in our secure editorial database.

8.4 Loss of Data

While we take every precaution, we recommend authors retain their own backup copies of all submitted manuscripts. We cannot be held liable for accidental data loss beyond our reasonable control.