Below is a comprehensive Cookie Policy for Astorians.net (the “Website” or “we”) that provides detailed information about how we use cookies and similar tracking technologies. This policy is crafted to help you understand our practices and to comply with relevant laws and regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and ePrivacy Directive standards.
Last Updated: January 6th, 2025
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose of This Cookie Policy This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, how Astorians.net (“Website,” “us,” or “our”) uses them, and the choices you have regarding their use. By accessing or using our Website, you agree to the terms outlined in this Cookie Policy, along with our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
1.2 Scope This Policy applies to any cookies or similar technologies (e.g., pixel tags, web beacons) that collect information when you visit or interact with Astorians.net on any device.
1.3 Regulatory Compliance We strive to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), the ePrivacy Directive, and other applicable data protection laws. If you have questions about how we handle your data, please refer to our Privacy Policy or contact us at [email protected].
2. What Are Cookies?
2.1 Definition Cookies are small text files placed on your computer or device when you visit a website. They help websites recognize returning visitors, store preferences, and enable various features that can enhance user experience.
2.2 How They Work Session Cookies: These are temporary cookies that are deleted once you close your browser or end a session. They help the Website function, such as remembering items in your cart or maintaining your login session. Persistent Cookies: These cookies remain on your device for a specified period or until manually deleted. They help us remember your preferences and recognize you upon subsequent visits.
2.3 Similar Technologies We may also use technologies like web beacons, pixel tags, or software development kits (SDKs) which function similarly to cookies by tracking user interactions or collecting device data.
3. Types of Cookies We Use
We categorize the cookies on our Website based on their function and purpose. Below is a non-exhaustive list of the main cookie types employed: 3.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies Purpose: Essential for the operation of our Website and services. Examples: Session identifiers, security tokens. Consequences if Disabled: The Website may not function correctly (e.g., you may be unable to log in or access certain features).
3.2 Functionality/Preference Cookies Purpose: Store user preferences such as language settings, region selection, or user interface customization. Examples: Remembering your display preferences, user interface customizations. Consequences if Disabled: You may need to re-enter or reset your preferences each time you visit.
3.3 Analytics/Performance Cookies Purpose: Collect information about how you use our Website (e.g., which pages you visit, how long you stay). Examples: Google Analytics, internal analytics tools. Usage: Helps us understand user behavior, improve site performance, and enhance content offerings. Consequences if Disabled: We lose valuable feedback on Website performance, though core functionality remains unaffected.
3.4 Advertising/Targeting Cookies Purpose: Display relevant advertisements, limit the number of times you see an ad, and measure ad campaign effectiveness. Examples: Cookies set by Google AdSense or other ad networks. Usage: Revenue from ads supports our free services, helping us keep our learning platform accessible to users at no direct cost. Consequences if Disabled: You’ll still see ads, but they may be less relevant to your interests.
4. Third-Party Cookies
4.1 External Services and Providers Some cookies on our Website are placed by third parties when you visit or interact with certain features. These third parties may include, but are not limited to: Analytics Providers: e.g., Google Analytics. Advertising Networks: e.g., Google AdSense. Social Media Platforms: e.g., embedded YouTube videos or social share buttons.
4.2 Third-Party Policies We do not control these third-party cookies. Each third-party entity has its own cookie and privacy policies. We encourage you to review their respective policies to understand how they process and protect your data.
5. Cookie Consent
5.1 Consent Mechanism Depending on your jurisdiction, we may display a cookie consent banner or notification prompting you to accept or manage cookies upon your first visit (or periodically). By selecting your cookie preferences or continuing to use our Website, you consent to our use of cookies as outlined in this policy.
5.2 Withdrawing Consent You may withdraw or modify your cookie preferences at any time through your browser settings or any dedicated tool we make available. Please note that changes in consent may affect certain functionalities of our Website.
6. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
6.1 Browser Controls Most web browsers allow you to control or disable cookies through their settings. You can typically manage cookies under the “Privacy” or “Security” settings in your browser. Blocking/Deleting Cookies: You can delete existing cookies or set your browser to reject new cookies. Impact on Website Experience: Disabling or blocking certain cookies may limit Website functionalities (e.g., you might not remain logged in).
6.2 Opt-Out Mechanisms Where available, you can opt out of certain third-party cookies through industry-standard opt-out tools such as: Network Advertising Initiative: http://www.networkadvertising.org/choices/ Digital Advertising Alliance: http://www.aboutads.info/choices/ Your Online Choices (EU Users): http://www.youronlinechoices.com/
6.3 Device and OS Settings On mobile devices, you may be able to control tracking settings or reset advertising identifiers through the device’s operating system settings.
7. Data Collected Through Cookies
7.1 Non-Personal Information Many cookies collect aggregated or anonymized data, such as pages visited, session duration, or general geographic location (based on IP address). This information does not directly identify you but helps us improve the user experience.
7.2 Personal Data In certain cases, cookies may collect data that can be considered personal (e.g., if you’re logged in and cookies store your profile preferences). Any personal data collected via cookies will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
7.3 Security Logs We may use strictly necessary cookies for security purposes, tracking suspicious activity or repeated failed login attempts to protect user accounts and the integrity of our Website.
8. Retention of Cookie Data
8.1 Cookie Duration Session Cookies: Deleted automatically when you close your browser. Persistent Cookies: Remain on your device for a set period or until manually removed. We outline cookie lifespans where possible within the Website or upon user request.
8.2 Log Retention Where cookie data is logged (e.g., analytics data, user preferences), we maintain it only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or to comply with legal obligations. Please see our Privacy Policy for additional details.
9. Changes to This Cookie Policy
9.1 Right to Update We reserve the right to revise or update this Cookie Policy at any time to reflect changes in our practices, user feedback, or legal obligations. The “Last Updated” date at the top indicates the latest revision.
9.2 User Notification If we make material changes, we will take appropriate measures to inform you, consistent with the significance of the changes and applicable legal requirements (e.g., by displaying a prominent notice or sending a direct communication).
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about our Cookie Policy or practices, or if you wish to exercise any data protection rights related to cookies, please contact us: Email: [email protected]
