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Cookie Policy

Last Updated: December 1, 2024

1. Introduction

This Cookie Policy explains how CottageTech Solutions ("we," "our," or "us") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website. This policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

By using our website, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this policy, subject to your browser settings and preferences.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They help websites remember information about your visit, such as your preferences and actions, which can make your next visit easier and the site more useful to you.

2.1 Types of Cookies

  • Session Cookies: Temporary cookies that are deleted when you close your browser
  • Persistent Cookies: Cookies that remain on your device for a specified period or until you delete them
  • First-Party Cookies: Cookies set directly by our website
  • Third-Party Cookies: Cookies set by external services we use on our website

3. How We Use Cookies

3.1 Necessary Cookies

These cookies are essential for the basic functioning of our website and cannot be switched off. They include:

Security and Authentication

  • csrf_token: Protects against cross-site request forgery attacks
  • session_id: Maintains your session state during your visit
  • cookie_consent: Remembers your cookie preferences

Duration: Session cookies expire when you close your browser; consent cookies last 1 year

Purpose: Essential website security and functionality

3.2 Analytics Cookies

These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by collecting and reporting information anonymously:

Google Analytics

  • _ga: Distinguishes unique users
  • _gid: Distinguishes unique users (24-hour period)
  • _gat: Throttles request rates
  • _ga_[container_id]: Persists session state

Duration: From 1 minute to 2 years

Purpose: Website analytics and performance optimization

Data Collected: Page views, time spent on site, bounce rate, traffic sources

3.3 Functional Cookies

These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalization:

User Preferences

  • user_preferences: Stores your website preferences
  • language_setting: Remembers your language choice
  • theme_choice: Saves your display preferences

Duration: 1 year

Purpose: Personalized user experience

3.4 Marketing Cookies

These cookies track visitors across websites to display relevant advertisements:

Facebook Pixel (Optional)

  • _fbp: Facebook browser pixel ID
  • _fbc: Facebook click ID

Duration: 90 days

Purpose: Targeted advertising and conversion tracking

Note: Only active if you consent to marketing cookies

4. Cookie Management

4.1 Cookie Consent Manager

Our website includes a comprehensive cookie consent manager that allows you to:

  • Accept all cookies
  • Accept only necessary cookies
  • Customize your cookie preferences by category
  • Change your preferences at any time
  • Withdraw consent for non-essential cookies

4.2 Managing Cookie Preferences

You can manage your cookie preferences through several methods:

Our Cookie Preference Centre

Use our cookie preference centre to customize your settings:

Browser Settings

You can also control cookies through your browser settings:

  • Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data
  • Firefox: Preferences > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data
  • Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data
  • Edge: Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Cookies and site data

4.3 Disabling Cookies

You can disable cookies entirely through your browser settings. However, please note that disabling cookies may affect the functionality of our website and your user experience.

5. Third-Party Services

5.1 Google Analytics

We use Google Analytics to analyze website usage and improve our services. Google Analytics uses cookies to collect information about your use of our website. For more information about Google Analytics cookies, visit Google Analytics Cookie Usage.

You can opt out of Google Analytics by visiting Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on.

5.2 Social Media Platforms

Our website may include social media features that use cookies. These features are hosted by third-party social media platforms and are governed by their respective privacy policies:

  • Facebook: Facebook Privacy Policy
  • Twitter: Twitter Privacy Policy
  • LinkedIn: LinkedIn Privacy Policy
  • Instagram: Instagram Privacy Policy
  • YouTube: Google Privacy Policy

6. Cookie Retention Periods

Different types of cookies are retained for different periods:

Cookie Type Retention Period Purpose
Session Cookies Until browser is closed Essential functionality
Consent Preferences 1 year Remember your choices
Analytics Cookies 26 months Website improvement
Functional Cookies 1 year Enhanced user experience
Marketing Cookies 90 days Relevant advertising

7. Data Protection and Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect cookie data:

  • Secure Cookies: Sensitive cookies are transmitted only over HTTPS
  • SameSite Attribute: Protects against cross-site request forgery
  • HttpOnly Flag: Prevents access to cookies via JavaScript where appropriate
  • Regular Reviews: We regularly review and update our cookie usage

8. Children's Privacy

Our website is not directed to children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children through cookies. If we become aware that we have collected information from a child under 13, we will take steps to delete such information.

9. International Data Transfers

Some of our third-party service providers (such as Google Analytics) may transfer and process cookie data outside of Canada. When this occurs, we ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information.

10. Changes to This Cookie Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or applicable laws. When we make material changes, we will:

  • Update the "Last Updated" date at the top of this policy
  • Notify users through our website banner or email
  • Request new consent where required by law

11. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, please contact us:

Privacy Officer
CottageTech Solutions
1455 Lakeshore Blvd W
Toronto, ON M6S 5A8
Canada

Email: [email protected]
Phone: +1 (416) 555-0123

12. Additional Resources

For more information about cookies and online privacy, visit:

  • Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
  • All About Cookies
  • Cookie Education Resources

CottageTech Solutions
Committed to transparency and your privacy rights.

This Cookie Policy is part of our commitment to protecting your privacy while providing you with the best possible experience on our website.

CottageTech Solutions

CottageTech Solutions

Transforming Canadian cottages with smart technology since 2009.

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1455 Lakeshore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6S 5A8

+1 (416) 555-0123

[email protected]

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