Terms of Service

last updated on November 4, 2021

Introduction:

THIS AGREEMENT BINDS YOU OR THE COMPANY YOU REPRESENT ("YOU," OR "YOUR") TO THE TERMS OF SERVICE SET FORTH HEREIN IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR USE OF ECHO ANALYTICS GROUP, LLC.' S ("OUR, " "WE, " "COMPANY," OR "ECHO ACADEMY") SERVICES OR OTHER OFFERINGS ON OUR SITE (COLLECTIVELY, OUR "SERVICES"). BY USING ANY OF THE COMPANY PRODUCTS OR CREATING AN ACCOUNT, YOU AGREE TO BECOME BOUND BY THE TERMS OF SERVICE OF THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO ALL THE TERMS OF SERVICE OF THIS AGREEMENT, CLICK ON THE "CANCEL" BUTTON AND DO NOT USE THE COMPANY PRODUCTS. THE COMPANY'S ACCEPTANCE IS EXPRESSLY CONDITIONED UPON YOUR CONSENT TO ALL THE TERMS OF SERVICE OF THIS AGREEMENT, TO THE EXCLUSION OF ALL OTHER TERMS. IF THESE TERMS OF SERVICE ARE CONSIDERED AN OFFER BY THE COMPANY, ACCEPTANCE IS EXPRESSLY LIMITED TO THESE TERMS.

Thank "You" for using EAG!

Welcome to Echo Academy's online education "Service" designed especially for research, security, and intelligence professionals. These "Terms" explain our obligations as a "Service" provider and "Your" obligations as a customer. Please read them carefully. These "Terms" are binding on any use of the "Service" and apply to "You" from the time that the "Company" provides "You" with access to the "Services." "Services" will evolve based on "Subscriber" feedback. These "Terms" will not answer every question or address every issue raised through the use of the "Service." The "Company" reserves the right to change these terms at any time, and it is likely to change over time. Therefore, effective upon the posting of modified terms, it is "Your" obligation to ensure that "You" have read, understood, and agree to the most recent terms available on the "Site." By registering to use the "Services," "You" acknowledge that "You" have read and understood these "Terms" and have the authority to act on behalf of any person for whom "You" are using the "Service." "You" are deemed to have agreed to these "Terms" on behalf of any entity for whom "You" use the "Services." This "Agreement" governs "Your" access to and use of the "Company" courses "Site," any information, text, graphics, or other materials appearing on the "Site" (the "Content"), and any "Services" provided. "Your" access to and use of the "Site," "Content," or "Services" are expressly conditioned on "Your" compliance with these "Terms." By accessing or using the "Site," "Content," or "Services," "You" agree to be bound by these "Terms." If "You" have entered into another agreement with the "Company" governing "Your" use of the "Site," "Content," or "Services," that agreement will take precedence over these "Terms" where conflicts between the two exist.

Privacy:

Any personal information submitted in connection with "Your" use of the "Service" or the Site is subject to our Privacy Policy.

Definitions:

  1. "Terms" refers to the Terms of "Service."
  2. "Company" refers to Echo Analytics Group, LLC and EAG and Echo Academy and all current and future global subsidiaries of Echo Analytics Group, LLC. Echo Academy courses fall under these Terms of Service.
  3. "Confidential Information" refers to all information exchanged between the parties regarding the Terms of "Service," whether in writing, electronically, or orally. It does not include information that is or becomes publicly available through unauthorized disclosure by other parties.
  4. "Data" refers to any data inputted by "You" or with "Your" authority into any website.
  5. "Intellectual Property" refers to any patent, trademark, "Service" mark, copyright, moral right, right in a design, know-how, and any other intellectual or industrial property rights, anywhere in the world, whether registered or not registered.
  6. "Service" refers to the courseware provided by the "Company" or any other "Services" offered on the "Company" website.
  7. "Site" refers to the internet domain echoanalyticsgroup.com, www.echoanalyticsgroup.com, or any other site operated by Echo Analytics Group, LLC.
  8. "Subscriber" refers to the person who registers to use the "Service" and, where the context permits, includes any entity on whose behalf that person registers to use the "Service."
  9. "Invited User" refers to any person or entity other than the "Subscriber" that uses the "Service" with the authorization of the "Subscriber" from time to time.
  10. "You" and "Your" refer to the "Subscriber," and where the context permits, an Invited User.

Using EAG’s Services

Whom May Use our Services

You may use our "Services" only if "You" can form a binding contract with the "Company," and only in compliance with these Terms and all applicable laws. When "You" create "Your" "Company" account, and subsequently when "You" use certain features, "You" must provide us with accurate and complete information, and "You" agree to update "Your" information to keep it accurate and complete. Any use or access by anyone under 13 is prohibited, and certain courses may have additional requirements and/or restrictions.

Our License to You

Subject to these "Terms" and our policies (including the Acceptable Use Policy, Honor Code, and course-specific eligibility requirements and other terms), we grant "You" a limited, personal, non-exclusive, non-transferable, and revocable license to use our "Services." "You" may download content from our "Services" only for "Your" personal, non-commercial use, unless "You" obtain the "Company" written permission to use the content otherwise. "You" also agree that "You" will create, access, and/or use only one user account, and "You" will not share with any third-party access to or access information for "Your" account. Using our "Services" does not give "You" ownership of any intellectual property rights in our "Services" or the content "You" access.

Course Modifications

While we take pride in our world-class courses, unexpected events do occur. The "Company" reserves the right to cancel, interrupt, or reschedule any course or to modify any course content or the point value or weight of any assignment, quiz, or other assessment. Courses offered are subject to the Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability sections below.

No Academic Credit

Unless otherwise explicitly indicated by a credit-granting institution, participation in or completion of a course does not confer any academic credit. Even if credit is awarded by one institution, there is no presumption that other institutions will accept that credit. You agree not to accept credit for completing a course unless "You" have earned a course certificate (or another equivalent "Company" credential) for that course. The "Company," the course instructors, and the associated participating institutions have no obligation to have a course recognized by any educational institution or accreditation organization.

Disclaimer of Student-Academy Relationship

Nothing in these "Terms" or otherwise concerning "Your" participation in any course:

  1. Establishes any relationship between "You" and any educational institution the "Company" may be affiliated with.
  2. Enrolls or registers "You" in any educational institution or any course offered by any educational institution.
  3. Entitles "You" to use the resources of any educational institution beyond participation in the course.

User Content

The "Services" enable "You" to share "Your" content, such as homework, quizzes, exams, projects, and other assignments "You" submit, posts "You" make in the forums, and the like ("User Content"), with the "Company," instructors, and/or other users. "You" retain all intellectual property rights in, and are responsible for, the User Content "You" share.

How the "Company" and Others May Use User Content

To the extent that "You" provide user content, "You" grant the "Company" a fully transferable, royalty-free, perpetual, sublicensable, non-exclusive, worldwide license to copy, distribute, modify, create derivative works based on, publicly perform, publicly display, and otherwise use the User Content. This license includes granting the "Company" the right to authorize participating institutions to use user content with their registered students and on-site learners independent of the "Services." Nothing in these "Terms" shall restrict other legal rights the "Company" may have to User Content, for example, under other licenses. We reserve the right to remove or modify User Content for any reason, including User Content that we believe violates these "Terms."

Feedback

We welcome "Your" suggestions, ideas, comments, and other feedback regarding the "Services" ("Feedback"). By submitting any Feedback, "You" grant the "Company" the right to use it without any restriction or any compensation to "You." By accepting "Your" Feedback, EAG does not waive any rights to use similar or related feedback previously known to the "Company," developed by its employees or contractors, or obtained from other sources.

Security

We care about the security of our users. While we work to protect the security of "Your" account and related information, the "Company" cannot guarantee that unauthorized third parties will not be able to defeat our security measures. Please notify us immediately of any compromise or unauthorized use of "Your" account by emailing [email protected]. 

Third-Party Content

Through the "Services," "You" will have the ability to access and/or use content provided by instructors, other users, and/or other third parties and links to websites and "Services" maintained by third parties. The "Company" cannot guarantee that such third-party content, in the "Services" or elsewhere, will be free of material "You" may find objectionable or otherwise inappropriate or of malware or other contaminants that may harm "Your" computer, mobile device, or any files therein. The "Company" disclaims any responsibility or liability related to "Your" access or use of such third-party content.

Education Research

The "Company" is committed to advancing the science of learning and teaching, and records of "Your" participation in courses may be used for education research. In the interest of this research, "You" may be exposed to variations in the course content. Research findings will typically be reported at the aggregate level. "Your" personal identity will not be publicly disclosed in any research findings without "Your" express consent.

Paid Services

The "Company" offers paid "Services" (e.g., course certificates for particular courses) for a fee. Unless otherwise stated, all fees quoted are in US Dollars. You are responsible for paying all fees advertised along with applicable taxes promptly with a payment mechanism associated with the appropriate paid "Services." If "Your" payment method fails or "Your" account is past due, we may collect fees using other collection mechanisms. Fees may vary based on "Your" location and other factors, and the "Company" reserves the right to change any fees at any time at its sole discretion. Any change, update, or modification will immediately post through the relevant "Services." Refunds may be available for paid "Services" as described in our Refund Policy.

Modifying and Terminating our Services

We are constantly changing and improving our "Services." We may add or remove functions, features, or requirements and suspend or stop a "Service" altogether. Accordingly, the "Company" may terminate "Your" use of any "Service" for any reason. If "Your" use of a paid "Service" is terminated, a refund may be available under our Refund Policy. None of the "Company," its participating institutions and instructors, its contributors, sponsors, and other business partners, and their employees, contractors, and other agents (the "EAG Parties") shall have any liability to "You" for any such action. You can stop using the "Company" "Services" at any time, although we'll be sorry to see "You" go.

Disclaimers

Third-party technologies may be used to support "Services" applicable to these "Terms" to provide data as part of the "Service" requirements. As such, the following applies: 

EXCEPT FOR THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES SET FORTH HEREIN, THE "SERVICES" AND ALL DATA ARE PROVIDED ON AN "AS IS" BASIS. THE "COMPANY" AND ITS LICENSORS MAKE NO REPRESENTATION, WARRANTY, OR GUARANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, OF ANY KIND AS TO THE RELIABILITY, TIMELINESS, QUALITY, SUITABILITY, TRUTH, AVAILABILITY, ACCURACY, OR COMPLETENESS OF THE SERVICES. THE "COMPANY" AND ITS LICENSORS DO NOT REPRESENT OR WARRANT THAT (i) THE THIRD-PARTY TECHNOLOGIES THAT THE "COMPANY" USES WILL BE SECURE, TIMELY, UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE OR OPERATE IN COMBINATION WITH ANY OTHER HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, SYSTEM OR DATA, (ii) THE "SERVICES" WILL MEET CLIENT REQUIREMENTS OR EXPECTATIONS, (iii) THE "SERVICES" WILL RESULT IN SALES, (iv) ANY STORED DATA WILL BE ACCURATE OR RELIABLE, (v) ERRORS OR DEFECTS WILL BE CORRECTED, OR (vi) THE "SERVICES" OR THE SERVER(S) THAT MAKE THE SERVICES AVAILABLE ARE FREE OF VIRUSES OR OTHER HARMFUL COMPONENTS. THE SERVICES MAY BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS, DELAYS, AND OTHER PROBLEMS INHERENT IN THE USE OF THE INTERNET AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS. THE "COMPANY" IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DELAYS, DELIVERY FAILURES, OR OTHER DAMAGE RESULTING FROM SUCH PROBLEMS. ALL CONDITIONS, REPRESENTATIONS, AND WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY, OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY RIGHTS, ARE HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW BY THE "COMPANY" AND ITS LICENSORS. 

IN NO EVENT SHALL THE "COMPANY" AGGREGATE LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THESE "TERMS," WHETHER ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO BREACH OF CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, EXCEED THE AGGREGATE AMOUNTS PAID OR PAYABLE TO THE "COMPANY" IN THE 6 MONTH PERIOD PRECEDING THE OCCURRENCE OF THE EVENT GIVING RISE TO THE CLAIM. "YOU" ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT ANY ACCESS TO OR USE OF THE "SERVICES" OR SUCH CONTENT IS AT "YOUR" OWN RISK.

Limitation of Liability

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, EAG SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, OR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUES, WHETHER INCURRED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, OR ANY LOSS OF DATA, USE, GOODWILL, OR OTHER INTANGIBLE LOSSES, RESULTING FROM: (A) "YOUR" ACCESS TO OR USE OF OR INABILITY TO ACCESS OR USE THE "SERVICES;" (B) ANY CONDUCT OR CONTENT OF ANY PARTY OTHER THAN THE APPLICABLE EAG PARTY, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY DEFAMATORY, OFFENSIVE, OR ILLEGAL CONDUCT; OR (C) UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS, USE, OR ALTERATION OF "YOUR" CONTENT OR INFORMATION. IN NO EVENT SHALL EAG'S AGGREGATE LIABILITY FOR ALL CLAIMS RELATED TO THE "SERVICES" EXCEED TWENTY US DOLLARS ($20) OR THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF FEES RECEIVED BY THE "COMPANY" FROM "YOU" FOR THE USE OF PAID "SERVICES" DURING THE PAST SIX MONTHS, WHICHEVER IS GREATER.

"YOU" ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT THE DISCLAIMERS AND THE LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY SET FORTH IN THESE "TERMS" REFLECT A REASONABLE AND FAIR ALLOCATION OF RISK BETWEEN "YOU" AND THE "COMPANY" PARTIES AND THAT THESE LIMITATIONS ARE AN ESSENTIAL BASIS TO THE "COMPANY" ABILITY TO MAKE THE "SERVICES" AVAILABLE TO "YOU" ON AN ECONOMICALLY FEASIBLE BASIS.

"YOU" AGREE THAT ANY CAUSE OF ACTION RELATED TO THE "SERVICES" MUST COMMENCE WITHIN ONE (1) YEAR AFTER THE CAUSE OF ACTION ACCRUES. OTHERWISE, SUCH CAUSE OF ACTION IS PERMANENTLY BARRED.

Indemnification

"You" hereby indemnify, defend and hold harmless the "Company," and its affiliates, officers, directors, agents, partners, employees, licensors, representatives, and third-party providers from and against all losses, expenses, damages, costs, claims, and demands, including reasonable attorneys' fees and related costs and expenses, made by any third party related to:

  1. "Your" use or attempted use of the "Services" in violation of these "Terms."
  2. "Your" violation of any law or rights of any third party.
  3. User Content, including without limitation any claim of infringement or misappropriation of intellectual property or other proprietary rights.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction

The "Services" are managed by the "Company," which is in Tampa, Florida. "You" agree that any dispute related to these "Terms" will be governed by the laws of the State of Florida. Each Party irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that any legal action, suit, or proceeding brought by either Party against the other Party of any kind whatsoever arising out of or related to these "Terms" and the transactions contemplated hereby, shall be brought in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida or the courts of the State of Florida, in each case sitting in Hillsborough County, Florida, and any appellate court from any thereof.

Each Party irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of such courts in any such suit, action, or proceeding and agrees that a final judgment in any such action, litigation, or proceeding is conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.  

Waiver of Jury Trial. 

EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY THAT MAY ARISE UNDER THESE "TERMS," INCLUDING EXHIBITS, SCHEDULES, ATTACHMENTS, AND APPENDICES ATTACHED TO THIS AGREEMENT, OR ANY AMENDMENT THERETO, IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE COMPLICATED AND DIFFICULT ISSUES AND, THEREFORE, EACH SUCH PARTY IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LEGAL ACTION ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING ANY EXHIBITS, ORDERS, SCHEDULES, ATTACHMENTS OR APPENDICES ATTACHED, OR ANY AMENDMENT THERETO, TO THIS AGREEMENT, OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY.

General Terms

Revisions to the Terms

The "Company" reserves the right to revise the "Terms" at our sole discretion at any time. Any revisions to the "Terms" will be effective immediately upon posting by us. For any material changes to the "Terms," we will take reasonable steps to notify "You" of such changes. In all cases, "Your" continued use of the "Services" after the publication of such changes, with or without notification, constitutes binding acceptance of the revised "Terms."

Entire agreement: 

These "Terms," together with the "Company" Privacy Policy and the terms of any other notices or instructions given to "You" under these "Terms" supersede and extinguish all prior agreements, representations (whether oral or written), and understandings and constitute the entire agreement between "You" and the "Company" relating to the "Services" and the other matters dealt with in these "Terms."

Waiver: 

If either Party waives any breach of these "Terms," this will not constitute a waiver of any other breach. No waiver will be effective unless made in writing.

Delays: 

Neither Party will be liable for any delay or failure in the performance of its obligations under these "Terms" if the delay or failure is due to any cause outside its reasonable control. This clause does not apply to any obligation to pay money.

No Assignment: 

"You" may not assign or transfer any rights to any other person without the "Company" prior written consent.

Severability: 

If any part or provision of these "Terms" is invalid, unenforceable, or in conflict with the law, that part or provision is replaced with a provision which, as far as possible, accomplishes the original purpose of that part or provision. The remainder of these "Terms" will be binding on the parties.

Notices: 

Any notice given under these "Terms" by either Party to the other must be in writing by email and deemed to have been given on transmission. Notices to the "Company" must be sent to [email protected] or to any other email address notified by email to "You" by the "Company." Notices to "You" will be sent to the email address which "You" provided when setting up "Your" access to the "Service."

Rights of Third Parties: 

A person who is not a party to these "Terms" has no right to benefit under or to enforce any of these "Terms."

Participating Institutions

The "Company's" participating institutions are third-party beneficiaries of the "Terms" and may enforce those provisions of the "Terms" that relate to them.

Acceptable Use Policy

Effective: November 4, 2021

The "Company" mission is to provide universal access to the world's best education. We believe strongly in preserving free speech and expression for our learners as well as academic freedom for our partner institutions and instructors. We also want to make sure that all our learners and instructors feel safe and comfortable while using our "Services." The "Company" drafted these guidelines to ensure that "You" understand and follow the rules when participating in the "Company's" online community and are otherwise using "Company" "Services."

  1. The "Company" may remove or edit inappropriate content or activity or suspend, disable, or terminate a user's access to all or part of the "Services."
    1. "You" are prohibited from using our "Services" to share content that:
    2. Contains illegal content or promotes illegal activities with the intent to commit such activities. Please keep in mind that learners who are as young as 13 use the "Company" "Services," and content that is inappropriate for these younger learners are strictly prohibited.
    3. Contains credible threats or organizes acts of real-world violence. The "Company" does not allow content that creates a genuine risk of physical injury or property damage, credibly threatens people or public safety, or organizes or encourages harm.
    4. Harasses others. The "Company" encourages commentary about people and matters of public interest, but abusive or otherwise inappropriate content directed at private individuals is not allowed.
    5. Violates intellectual property, privacy, or other rights. Do not share content that "You" do not have the right to share, claim content that "You" did not create as "Your" own, or otherwise infringe or misappropriate someone else's intellectual property or other rights. Always attribute materials used or quoted by "You" to the original copyright owner.
    6. Spams others. Do not share irrelevant or inappropriate advertising, promotional, or solicitation content.
    7. Otherwise violates the "Company" "Terms." Please note that specific courses may have additional rules and requirements.
  2. "You" are also prohibited from:
    1. Committing actions that violate local, state, national or international law or breach any of "Your" contractual obligations or fiduciary duties.
    2. Sharing "Your" password, allowing access to "Your" account, or committing and other actions that might put "Your" account at risk.
    3. Attempting to access any other user's account.
    4. Reproducing, transferring, selling, reselling, or otherwise misusing any content from our "Services," unless specifically authorized to do so.
    5. Accessing, tampering with, or using non-public areas of "Company" systems, unless specifically authorized to do so.
    6. Breaking or circumventing "Company" authentication or security measures or otherwise testing the vulnerability of "Company" systems or networks, unless specifically authorized to do so.
    7. Reverse engineering any portion of "Company" "Services."
    8. Interfering with any user, host, or network, for example: sending a virus, overloading, spamming, or mail-bombing.
    9. Using the "Company" "Services" to distribute malware.
    10. Impersonating or misrepresenting "Your" affiliation with any person or entity.
    11. Encouraging or assisting others in committing any of the actions on this list (2.a. – 2.j.).

Copyright and Trademark Policy

Effective as of November 4, 2021

The "Company" respects the intellectual property rights of partner institutions, instructors, and other third parties. The "Company" expects users to do the same when using the "Services." The "Company" reserves the right to suspend, disable, or terminate the accounts of users who repeatedly infringe or are repeatedly charged with infringing the copyrights, trademarks, or other intellectual property rights of others.

The Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998 (the "DMCA") provides recourse for copyright owners who believe that material appearing on the Internet infringes their rights under US copyright law. If "You" would like to read the DMCA, please visit the US Copyright Office website at http://www.copyright.gov/legislation/dmca.pdf. 

If "You" believe in good faith that materials contained in the "Services" infringe "Your" copyright, the DCMA provides that "You" (or "Your" agent) may send us a notice requesting that the material be removed, or access to it blocked.

  1. The notice must include the following information:
    1. The physical or electronic signature of a person authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed.
    2. Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed (or if multiple copyrighted works located in the "Services" are covered by a single notification, a representative list of such works).
    3. Identification of the material that is claimed to be infringing or the subject of infringing activity and information reasonably sufficient to allow the "Company" to locate the material contained in the "Services."
    4. The name, address, telephone number, and email address (if available) of the complaining party.
    5. A statement that the complaining party has a good faith belief that the use of the material in the manner complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law.
    6. A statement that the information in the notification is accurate and, under penalty of perjury, that the complaining party is authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right allegedly infringed.
  2. Notices must meet the then-current statutory requirements imposed by the DMCA. Notices and counter-notices concerning the "Services" can either be sent via mail or email:
    1. mail: 2701 N. Rocky Point Drive, Suite 700, Tampa, FL 33607
    2. email: [email protected]   

We suggest that "You" consult "Your" legal advisor before filing a notice. Also, be aware that there can be penalties for false claims under the DMCA.

The "Company" also respects the trademark rights of others. Accounts with any other content that misleads others or violates another's trademark may be updated, suspended, disabled, or terminated by the "Company" at its sole discretion. If "You" are concerned that someone may be using "Your" trademark in an infringing within our "Services," please email us at [email protected], and we will review "Your" complaint. If the "Company" deems appropriate, we may remove the offending content, warn the individual who posted the content, and/or temporarily or permanently suspend or disable the individual's account.

EAG Refund Policy

Effective as of November 4, 2021

Please refer to the information below for details on our refund deadlines and policies; note that our policies differ for subscription payments vs. one-time course and specialization purchases. Payment options may vary from one "Service" to another. Please also note that the "Company" treats violations of the "Terms" and Honor Code very seriously and has no obligation to offer refunds to learners who are found to be in violation of these "Terms," even if requests are made within the designated refund period. Similarly, the "Company" has no obligation to offer refunds to learners who do not pass a course or specialization or who are otherwise are unsatisfied with their final grade.

For courses that occur in-person, the "Company" may cancel a course when enrollment is less than the prescribed minimum number of students. The "Company" has established an enrollment of three (3) students as its prescribed minimum. The "Company" will:

For Month-to-Month Subscriptions

The "Company" does not offer refunds for payments made on a subscription plan. To avoid being charged during a free trial promotion, "You" must cancel "Your" subscription before "Your" free trial period ends. If "You" complete a course during the free trial period, the "Company" reserves the right to require "You" to pay for a one-month subscription to receive a course and/or specialization certificate.

"Your" subscription will continue on a month-to-month basis unless and until "You" cancel "Your" subscription, or the subscription is suspended or discontinued by the "Company." For subscriptions to individual specializations, the "Company" will automatically discontinue "Your" subscription at the end of the monthly period during which "You" earn a specialization certificate for the specialization unless "You" have subscribed through a third-party marketplace that restricts the "Company" ability to do so -- e.g., in-app purchases through the Apple App Store. Please visit the third-party marketplace for information regarding their policies. "You" must cancel "Your" subscription before "Your" monthly renewal date to avoid the next billing.

If "You" cancel "Your" subscription, the cancellation will be effective at the end of the current monthly period; "You" will have continued access to "Your" subscription for the remainder of that period, but "You" will not receive a refund.

For 6-Month On-Demand Course Payment

The "Company" does not offer refunds for 6-month subscription payments. To avoid being charged during a free trial promotion, "You" must cancel "Your" subscription before "Your" free trial period ends. "Your" subscription will continue for six months and then automatically renew unless and until "You" cancel "Your" subscription or the subscription is suspended or discontinued by the "Company." If "You" cancel "Your" subscription, "You" will continue to have access until the end of the six months and will not be billed for the next billing cycle.

For One-time On-Demand Course Payment

The "Company" does not offer refunds for on-demand courses, and the courses may not be canceled at any time. If "You" do not earn "Your" course certificate within 365 days, "Your" registration will expire, and "You" will need to pay to re-enroll for the course.

For In-Person Course Payment

If "You" cancel "Your" paid enrollment for a course, the "Company" will offer "You" a complete refund up to 14 days after payment, or until the course start date, whichever is earlier. For the avoidance of doubt, once "You" have started the course with "Your" payment, "You" are not eligible for a refund even if it is within 14 days. However, if "You" are taking a course through "Your" company or organization (e.g., EAG for Business, Refugees or Government), then "You" can earn "Your" certificate if "Your" company's contract with the "Company" is active, and "Your" access has not expired in accordance with the terms of that contract. Similarly, refunds and cancellations will also be governed by the terms of that contract between "Your" organization and the "Company."

For Other Paid "Services"

Except as described in this Refund Policy or as explicitly stated as part of the sign-up process for a "Service," the "Company" has no obligation to provide refunds or vouchers for any other "Services."

Third-Party Marketplaces

Notwithstanding the foregoing, if "You" purchase or subscribe for a course or specialization, or purchase any other paid "Service," through a third-party marketplace (e.g., in-app purchases through the Apple App Store or purchases made through certain alternative payment "Services"), the refund policy applicable to that third-party marketplace will apply, unless otherwise explicitly stated by the "Company." Except as otherwise explicitly stated by the "Company," the third-party marketplace will be solely responsible for making refunds under its refund policy, and the "Company" will have no refund obligations. The "Company" disclaims any responsibility or liability related to any third-party marketplace's refund policy or third-party compliance or noncompliance with such policy.

Honor Code

Effective as of November 4, 2021

All students participating in the class must agree to abide by the following code of conduct:

  1. I will register for only one account.
  2. My answers to homework, quizzes, exams, projects, and other assignments will be my work (except for assignments that explicitly permit collaboration).
  3. I will not make solutions to homework, quizzes, exams, projects, and other assignments available to anyone else (except to the extent an assignment explicitly permits sharing solutions). This includes both solutions written by me, and any solutions provided by the course staff or others.
  4. I will not engage in any other activities that will dishonestly improve my results or dishonestly improve or hurt the results of others. I will not engage in any other activities that will dishonestly improve my results or dishonestly improve or hurt the results of others.

Administrative Policies

Effective as of November 4, 2021

Complaint Resolution Policy:

  1. Purpose:
    1. To promote prompt resolution of perceived wrongs or injustices that may arise between students and faculty or staff members.
    2. To promote prompt resolution of grievances, whether academic or nonacademic.
    3. To assure the right of privacy of all parties is maintained.
    4. To develop a higher sense of community among all persons at Echo Academy.

The "Company" will make every effort to resolve complaints regarding National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) compliance within a reasonable amount of time and in a confidential manner. A formal complaint must be submitted in writing and must state the facts and the specific remedy sought. Please submit concerns via email to:

  1. Informal Complaint Resolution Process:
    1. Occasions may arise in which "You" feel that a legitimate basis for a complaint is present.  It is the policy of the "Company" to resolve these complaints promptly. Those involved should initially attempt to resolve the matter informally and without the need to establish a record. The informal process for resolution of a complaint is as follows:
      1. When "You" feel that there may be a complaint, it should be taken by "You" directly to the other Party (or parties) involved.
      2. If "You" and the other Party are unable to resolve the matter or if for any reason "You" do not feel at ease in going to the other Party, "You" should contact the course instructor for assistance. If "You" would rather not discuss the matter with the course instructor, "You" may choose to go to the Academy's Director or Associate Director.
  2. Formal Complaint Resolution Process:
    1. Students have the right to submit a formal written complaint about any grievance. Students should submit the complaint to the attention of the Course Instructor by email at [email protected].   
    2. The Course Instructor will determine the appropriate person at the "Company" to handle the problem and forward the complaint to that person. All written student complaints, with their resolutions, will be documented and the records maintained by the "Company" Director or designee.

Sex Discrimination or Equal Opportunity

Complaints involving sex discrimination or equal opportunity can be resolved by using the procedures outlined above. However, if "You" are not at ease with these procedures or feel them be ineffective, "You" may seek the aid of the President of the "Company" or a designated representative. This individual has the added responsibility of ensuring compliance with all federal laws regarding equal opportunity.

Program Content Standards

The "Company" takes great care to ensure both the program and the level of the program are appropriate for intended participants. The knowledge level of each course is outlined with the intention that any participant can determine if the program is appropriate for their own education and development needs. The specified knowledge levels consist of basic, intermediate, and advanced.

All programs identify the prerequisite education, experience, and/or preparation required, if any, in clear language with the intent that any participant can easily determine whether they qualify for a program. A course knowledge level of intermediate, advanced, or update inherently has an experience or education prerequisite outlined in the program's descriptive materials.

The "Company" is focused on providing high-quality, relevant, and timely continuing professional education learning content. All course programs include the most recent date of publication and are audited and revised as soon as feasible following changes to relative codes, laws, rulings, decisions, interpretations, etc., to ensure integrity, accuracy, and quality of learning content. All courses offered in subjects that undergo frequent changes are reviewed by an individual with subject matter expertise at least once per year. Other courses that do not undergo frequent changes are reviewed at a minimum of every two years. The revision or review date for Group Internet-Based programs is the date of the event.

The "Company" is committed to offering convenient, intuitive, and enjoyable learning experiences for all program participants. To ensure these goals are met, we partner with instructors, and course developers considered thought leaders and Subject Matter Experts (SME). All courses are developed and revised by individuals having expertise in respective subject matters. This expertise is gained through a combination of practical experience and education.

To provide an optimal learning experience for all participants, the "Company" has invested in a dynamic, modern, and flexible software platform to host intuitive and engaging Self Study courses. Courses are infused with audio and video content to help keep the attention of our learners. We continue to review and adapt course delivery systems under the learning experience and requirements of the "Company" accrediting body.

Content Learning Objectives and Outcomes

The "Company" courses are designed for people with a beginner knowledge of critical thinking and analysis. However, even people who consider themselves expert analysts have informed us they have gained skills in our courses. Our courses are based on progressive learning, meaning that once a concept is taught, it is assumed the student has obtained that skill set. Suppose the student needs to review a particular skill set to complete a task in later modules. In that case, it is incumbent upon them to go back and review the course material. The words basic, intermediate, or advanced in the course description determine what skill level the participant needs. The "Company" offers one-on-one counseling and short questionnaires that are available to participants to determine their skill level.

Group Internet (Virtual Live) Monitoring Mechanism & Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Credits

Group Internet programs are administered via Microsoft Teams. This web-conferencing software platform allows "Company" presenters to speak and share their screens with participants. For each credit hour of instruction, the "Company" offers at least three poll questions at random increments throughout the instruction. This allows us to monitor whether the participants have been active for the duration of the presentation.

Mixpanel, a business analytics platform used to measure user engagement and retention, also provides reports, which we review to ensure attendees have been active for at least 50 minutes of the program AND have answered at least 3 of the poll questions per 1 CPE credit being offered. If an attendee does not meet these minimum requirements, they will not be issued a certificate of completion.

Self-Study Qualified Assessment Grading Policy & CPE Credits

Participants seeking CPE credit for course completion are required to complete the final assessment with a minimum passing score of at least 70 percent. After "You" have completed the final assessment, "You" will be given their score as a percentage. "You" may retake the final assessment as many times as needed. Still, reinforcement feedback will not be given for the answers "You" select on the final assessment. If "You" receive a 70% or greater score, this will be indicated, and "You" will be directed to complete the course and offer an evaluation. If one receives less than 70%, this will be indicated, and "You" will be directed back to the location where "You" can retake the final assessment. 

Self-Study courses also include other "Check Point" review questions that will help reinforce the learning material. Participants are required to complete a review question at the end of each section of content. To receive CPE credit, "You" must be complete courses within one year of the date of enrollment. A certificate of completion will be sent within 24 hours upon successful completion of the course.

Privacy, Security, and Retention of Student Records

Effective as of November 4, 2021

The following procedures shall be implemented by the "Company" for the privacy, security, and retention of student records collected, maintained, and utilized for the "Service" that the "Company" is providing.

Privacy of Student Records

Individual, personally identifiable student records collected and maintained by the "Company" shall be accessible only to authorized "Company" personnel for auditing, monitoring, and evaluation of the education "Services," or for completing of federal or state-mandated activities requiring access to such records, as prescribed by Section 1002.22, FS, 20 USC 1232g and 34 CFR Part 99. The "Company" shall not disclose personally identifiable, individual student records to any person, institution, agency, or organization except as authorized by 20 USC 1232g, 34 CFR Part 99 and Section 228.093, FS Personally identifiable, individual student records shall be utilized by the "Company" to only prepare and publish aggregate reports and analysis. Such personally identifiable individual student records shall be destroyed in accordance with the records retention procedure prescribed below. 

Data Security

Access to individual student records will be stringently controlled through technical security conventions and procedures established by the "Company." Appropriate computer passwords and Logon ID shall be assigned to users to establish each user's data access authority only to the records or data elements required to complete activities related to the "Services" provided by the "Company."

Records Retention

Individual, personally identifiable student records shall be destroyed according to a records retention schedule consistent with the requirements of Section 257.36, FS Personally identifiable student records shall be maintained for five years or until applicable federal or state audit functions have been completed, at which time all such records shall be destroyed except for those required for the evaluation of state or federal education programs. Personally identifiable, individual student records maintained for evaluation by state or federal education programs shall be destroyed when no longer required.

Retention of Personally Identifiable Information

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a legal framework that sets guidelines for the collection and processing of personal information from individuals who live in the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA). GDPR also addresses the export of personal data outside of the EU. The GDPR became effective May 25, 2018. The "Company" may be required to share your personal information from time to time with other organizations to meet certain legal and regulatory obligations, requirements, and certifications that allow for the provision of certain "Services" to "You." For example, it may be necessary to include "Your" registration or attendance information in records required to supply for certification or standard-setting bodies to maintain "Company" accreditation of educational opportunities. When referencing "personal data" or "personal information," it means information that (either in isolation or in combination with other information held by the "Company") enables "You" to be identified as an individual (either directly or indirectly). Personal information may include "Your" name, date of birth, postal address, email address, computer IP address, phone number, payment card details number, user-generated content or login information, and technical information from the devices you use to receive our "Services."

If "You" reside or are in the EU or EEA, the "Company" keeps "Your" personally identifiable information for no longer than necessary for the purposes for which the personally identifiable information is processed and in accordance with the GDPR. The length of time the "Company" retains personally identifiable information depends on the purposes for which it is collected and used and/or as required to comply with applicable laws and establish, exercise, or defend the "Company" legal rights.

Confidentiality & Security of Personally Identifiable Information

The "Company" considers the confidentiality and security of "Your" information to be of the utmost importance. The "Company" will use industry-standard physical, technical. Administrative security measures to keep "Your" personally identifiable information confidential and secure and will not share it with third parties, except as otherwise provided in this Privacy Policy, or unless such disclosure is necessary in special cases, such as a physical threat to "You" or others, as permitted by applicable law. Because the internet is not a 100% secure environment, the "Company" cannot guarantee the security of personally identifiable information. There is some risk that an unauthorized third party may find a way to circumvent "Company" security systems or that transmission of "Your" information over the internet will be intercepted. It is "Your" responsibility to protect the security of "Your" login information. Please note that email communications are typically not encrypted and should not be considered secure.

Updating or Deleting Your Personally Identifiable Information

"You" have certain rights concerning "Your" personally identifiable information. "You" can access your personally identifiable information and confirm that it remains correct and up-to-date or choose whether "You" wish to receive material from the "Company" or some of the "Company" partners by logging into the "Site" and visiting "Your" user account page. If "You" would like further information concerning "Your" rights or would like to exercise any of them, "You" may do so via [email protected]. If "You" reside or are in the EU or EEA, "You" have the right to request that the "Company:"

The "Company" will try to answer every email promptly where possible and provide a response within the time period stated by applicable law. However, keep in mind that there will be residual information that will remain within the "Company" databases, access logs, and other records, which may or may not contain your personally identifiable information. Please also note that certain personally identifiable information may be exempt from such requests in certain circumstances, which may include the need to keep processing your personally identifiable information to comply with a legal obligation. When "You" email a request, the "Company" may ask that you provide us with information necessary to confirm "Your" identity.

Help Desk 

Effective as of November 4, 2021

Technical Problems: 

In the case of technical problems, "You" must make all reasonable efforts to investigate and diagnose problems before contacting the "Company." If "You" still need technical help, please check the support provided online by the "Company" on the "Site" or email us at [email protected]. 

Service Availability: 

While the "Company" intends that the "Services" should be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, it is possible that on occasions, the "Services" or "Site" may be unavailable to allow maintenance or other development activity to take place. Suppose for any reason the "Company" must interrupt the "Services" for longer periods than the "Company" would normally expect. In that case, the "Company" will use reasonable endeavors to publish in advance details of such activity on the "Site."