BIS Privacy Notice

How BIS handles collected information

Submitted Information: BIS uses its Web sites to collect information you provide through e-mail. We do not collect personally identifiable information (e.g., name, address, phone number, e-mail address) unless you provide it to us.

How long the information is retained: We destroy the information we collect when the purpose for which it was provided has been fulfilled unless we are required to keep it longer by statute, policy or both. For example, under BIS's records retention schedule, any information submitted to obtain an export license must be retained for seven years.

How the information is used: The information BIS collects is used for a variety of purposes (e.g., for export license applications, to respond to requests for information about our regulations and policies, and to fill orders for BIS forms). We make every effort to disclose clearly how information is used at the point where it is collected and allow our Web site visitors to determine whether they wish to provide information.

The conditions under which the information may be shared with other Federal agencies: BIS may share information received from its Web sites with other Federal agencies. For example, BIS shares export license application information with the Departments of State, Defense, and Energy as part of the interagency license review process.

The conditions under which the information may be made available to the public: Information we receive through our Web sites is disclosed to the public only pursuant to the laws and policies governing the dissemination of information. For example, BIS policy is to share information which is of general interest, such as frequently asked questions about our CWC regulations, but only after removing personal or proprietary data. However, information submitted to BIS becomes an agency record and therefore might be subject to a Freedom of Information Act request.

How e-mail is handled: We use information you send us by e-mail only for the purpose for which it is submitted (e.g., to answer a question, to send information, or to process an export license application). In addition, if you do supply us with personally identifying information, it is only used to respond to your request (e.g., addressing a package to send you export control forms or booklets). Information we receive by e-mail is disclosed to the public only pursuant to the laws and policies governing the dissemination of information. However, information submitted to BIS becomes an agency record and therefore might be subject to a Freedom of Information Act request.

Our general policy is to maintain this information until we have been able to respond to your question/inquiry or up to 45 days. Following that period your email will be deleted from our servers.

The use of "cookies": BIS does not use "persistent cookies" on any of its Web sites.

Information Protection: Our sites have security measures in place to protect against the loss, misuse, or alteration of the information on our Web sites. Staff is onsite and continually monitors our Web sites for possible security threats.

Our sites have security measures in place to protect against the loss, misuse, or alteration of the information on our Web sites. Staff is onsite and continually monitor our Web sites for possible security threats.

Links to Other Web Sites: Some of our Web pages contain links to Web sites outside of the Bureau of Industry and Security, including those of other federal agencies, state and local governments, and private organizations. Please be aware that when you follow a link to another site, you are then subject to the privacy policies of the new site.

Further Information: If you have specific questions about BIS's Web information collection and retention practices, please email cwcwebmaster@cwc.gov.