Cookie Policy
Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how CreatorGuard (“we,” “our,” or “us”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website and use our services. This policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy.
By using CreatorGuard, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this policy. You can manage your cookie preferences at any time using the methods described below.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website. They help websites remember your preferences, understand how you use the site, and improve your overall experience.
Types of Storage Technologies We Use
| Technology | Description |
|---|---|
| Cookies | Small text files stored in your browser |
| Local Storage | Browser storage for larger data amounts |
| Session Storage | Temporary storage cleared when browser closes |
| Pixels/Beacons | Tiny images that track page visits and actions |
2. Categories of Cookies We Use
2.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly. They cannot be disabled.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| session_id | Maintains your login session | Session |
| csrf_token | Security protection against attacks | Session |
| auth_token | Authentication verification | 24 hours |
| cookie_consent | Remembers your cookie preferences | 1 year |
Legal Basis: Legitimate interest (essential for service delivery)
2.2 Functional Cookies
These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalization.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| language | Remembers your language preference | 1 year |
| theme | Stores dark/light mode preference | 1 year |
| dashboard_layout | Saves your dashboard configuration | 6 months |
| timezone | Stores your timezone setting | 1 year |
| sidebar_state | Remembers sidebar open/closed state | 30 days |
Legal Basis: Consent (you can disable these)
2.3 Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics | Distinguishes unique users | 2 years |
| _ga_* | Google Analytics | Maintains session state | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics | Distinguishes users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics | Throttles request rate | 1 minute |
Data Collected:
- Pages visited and time spent
- Navigation paths through the site
- Device and browser information
- Geographic location (country/city level)
- Referral sources
Legal Basis: Consent (you can opt out)
2.4 Marketing Cookies
These cookies may be used to deliver relevant advertisements and track campaign effectiveness.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| _fbp | Tracks visits across websites | 90 days | |
| _gcl_au | Google Ads | Conversion tracking | 90 days |
Note: We currently limit marketing cookies. If we expand their use, we will update this policy and request your consent.
Legal Basis: Consent (explicit opt-in required)
3. Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies are placed by third-party services that appear on our pages.
3.1 Third-Party Services We Use
| Service | Purpose | Privacy Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Stripe | Payment processing | Stripe Privacy |
| Google Analytics | Website analytics | Google Privacy |
| Intercom | Customer support chat | Intercom Privacy |
| Sentry | Error tracking | Sentry Privacy |
3.2 Third-Party Cookie Control
We do not control cookies set by third parties. Please refer to their respective privacy policies for information on how to manage their cookies.
4. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies to:
Essential Functions
- Keep you signed in to your account
- Process secure transactions
- Protect against security threats
- Remember your settings and preferences
Improvement & Analytics
- Understand how visitors use our website
- Identify popular features and content
- Measure the effectiveness of our communications
- Improve website performance and user experience
Personalization
- Remember your language and display preferences
- Customize content based on your interests
- Provide relevant recommendations
- Maintain your dashboard settings
5. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
5.1 Cookie Consent Banner
When you first visit CreatorGuard, you’ll see a cookie consent banner. You can:
- Accept All: Enable all cookie categories
- Reject Non-Essential: Only allow strictly necessary cookies
- Customize: Choose specific cookie categories
5.2 Changing Preferences
You can update your cookie preferences at any time:
- Click the “Cookie Settings” link in our website footer
- Adjust your preferences in the popup
- Save your changes
5.3 Browser Controls
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through settings:
Google Chrome:
Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies and other site data
Mozilla Firefox:
Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
Safari:
Preferences → Privacy → Cookies and website data
Microsoft Edge:
Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Cookies and site data
5.4 Opt-Out Links
- Google Analytics: Google Opt-Out
- Facebook: Facebook Ad Settings
- General Opt-Out: Your Online Choices
6. Consequences of Disabling Cookies
If you choose to disable or reject cookies:
Strictly Necessary Cookies (Cannot be disabled)
- Required for the website to function
- Disabling may prevent access to the service
Functional Cookies
- Your preferences won’t be remembered
- You may need to re-enter settings each visit
- Some features may not work optimally
Analytics Cookies
- We won’t be able to improve your experience based on usage data
- No impact on core functionality
Marketing Cookies
- You may see less relevant advertisements
- No impact on core functionality
7. Cookie Retention Periods
| Category | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Session Cookies | Deleted when you close your browser |
| Persistent Cookies | Remain until expiration or deletion |
| Authentication | 24 hours to 30 days (based on “Remember Me”) |
| Preferences | 6 months to 1 year |
| Analytics | Up to 2 years |
8. Do Not Track Signals
Some browsers offer a “Do Not Track” (DNT) setting. Currently, there is no industry standard for responding to DNT signals.
Our Response: We respect DNT signals by disabling non-essential analytics and marketing cookies when detected.
9. Children’s Privacy
CreatorGuard is not intended for children under 16. We do not knowingly collect cookies or personal information from children under 16 years of age.
10. International Users
10.1 GDPR (European Union)
For users in the European Economic Area:
- We obtain consent before setting non-essential cookies
- You can withdraw consent at any time
- We document and honor your preferences
- Essential cookies are used based on legitimate interest
10.2 CCPA (California)
For California residents:
- We do not sell personal information collected via cookies
- You can opt out of analytics and marketing cookies
- We provide clear disclosure of our cookie practices
10.3 Other Jurisdictions
We aim to comply with cookie laws in all jurisdictions where we operate. If you have specific questions about your region, please contact us.
11. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect:
- Changes in our cookie practices
- New features or services
- Legal or regulatory requirements
- Industry best practices
When we make changes:
- We’ll update the “Last Updated” date
- Significant changes will be announced via website notice
- You may be asked to re-confirm your preferences
12. Contact Us
If you have questions about our use of cookies:
Subject Line: Cookie Policy Inquiry
Support: mark.creatorguard@gmail.com