1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device (computer, phone, or tablet) when you visit our website. They help us improve site functionality, personalize your experience, and analyze user behavior. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies as described below.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

 

Essential Cookies

• Purpose: Necessary for basic website functions (e.g., login, payment processing).
• Examples:
  • Session Cookies: Temporary cookies deleted when you close your browser.
  • Authentication Cookies: Verify logged-in users and maintain session security.

Preference Cookies

• Purpose: Remember your settings (e.g., language, login details).
• Examples:
  • Comment Cookies: Save your name, email, and website for future comments (expire after 1 year).
  • “Remember Me” Cookies: Keep you logged in for 2 weeks if selected.

Analytics & Performance Cookies

• Purpose: Track site traffic and user interaction to improve performance.
• Examples:
  • Google Analytics: Anonymized data on page views, session duration, and user demographics.

Marketing Cookies

• Purpose: Deliver targeted ads based on your interests (if applicable).
• Examples:
  • Social Media Cookies: Track engagement with embedded content (e.g., Facebook, Instagram).

Third-Party Cookies

• Purpose: Embedded content (e.g., videos, maps) may set cookies as if you visited their site.
• Examples:
  • Gravatar: Uses a hashed email to display profile pictures for comments.
  • Payment Gateways: Services like PayPal or Stripe may use cookies during transactions (no card details stored).

3. Cookie Duration

• Session Cookies: Expire when you close your browser.
• Persistent Cookies: Remain for up to:
  • 1 Year: Comment preferences and screen display settings.
  • 2 Weeks: “Remember Me” login cookies.
  • 1 Day: Editing cookies for article drafts.

4. Managing Cookies

• Browser Settings: Adjust cookie preferences or delete cookies via your browser’s privacy settings.
  • Chrome
  • Safari
  • Firefox
• Opt-Out Tools:
  • Use Google Analytics Opt-Out to disable analytics tracking.
  • Adjust ad preferences via Your Online Choices.

5. Consent & Updates

• Consent: Your continued use of our website implies acceptance of this policy.
• Policy Changes: We may update this policy to reflect legal or operational changes. Updates take effect immediately upon posting.

 

6. Contact Us

For questions about cookies or data practices, email [email protected]