1. What Are Cookies
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) when you visit a website. They contain information that a website can recognize upon your return visit. Cookies enable websites to remember your preferences, track your behavior, and improve your experience. There are two main types: session cookies (which expire when you close your browser) and persistent cookies (which remain until you delete them or they expire).
2. How We Use Cookies
PurdueGuard uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience, analyze site traffic, remember your preferences, and deliver targeted communications. We use cookies to: authenticate your account and maintain your session; remember your login credentials and preferences; track which pages you visit and how long you spend on them; identify referring sources; and analyze aggregate usage patterns to improve our Services. Most cookies do not collect personally identifiable information; however, we may associate cookies with your account if you log in.
3. Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies: Required for core site functionality (login, security, account recovery). These cannot be disabled. Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how you use the site, which pages are most popular, and where visitors come from. Examples include Google Analytics cookies. Marketing Cookies: Track your interests and allow us to display relevant ads and content across the web. Personalization Cookies: Remember your preferences, settings, and customizations for future visits. Third-Party Integration Cookies: Used by partners for features like webinar hosting, chat support, and video conferencing.
4. Third-Party Cookies
We use cookies from third-party service providers, including Google Analytics for traffic analysis, Intercom for customer support, Calendly for scheduling, and advertising platforms for retargeting. These third parties may collect information about your online activities across different websites. We recommend reviewing their privacy policies: Google (policies.google.com), Intercom (intercom.com/privacy), and other partner services. We do not have direct control over third-party cookies, and their use is subject to their respective privacy policies.
5. Managing Cookies
You have full control over cookies through our preference management tool accessible via the "Customize" button on our Cookie Banner. You can enable or disable analytics, marketing, personalization, and third-party cookies while keeping essential cookies enabled. You can also manage cookies through your browser settings: most browsers allow you to refuse cookies or alert you when cookies are being set. Instructions for popular browsers are available at: Chrome (support.google.com/chrome), Safari (support.apple.com/safari), Firefox (firefox.com/privacy), and Edge (support.microsoft.com/edge). Please note that disabling cookies may affect site functionality.
6. Cookie Consent and Preferences Storage
When you visit PurdueGuard for the first time, our Cookie Banner presents your options. You may Accept All cookies, Reject non-essential cookies, or Customize your preferences by category. Your choice is stored in localStorage on your device and persists across sessions. We honor your preferences on all PurdueGuard pages and services. If you clear your browser data, your preferences may be reset, and you will see the banner again upon next visit. You can change your preferences at any time using the "Customize" button.
7. Data Retention and Deletion
Most cookies automatically expire after a set period (typically 12-24 months for persistent cookies). Session cookies are deleted when you close your browser. Your cookie preferences (stored in localStorage) persist until you manually delete them or clear your browser data. If you wish to delete all cookies, you can do so through your browser settings. However, deleting cookies may require you to log in again and reset your preferences. Analytics data derived from cookies is typically retained for 26 months before aggregation and anonymization.
8. Compliance with Regulations
Our cookie practices comply with applicable privacy laws, including GDPR, CCPA, and ePrivacy directives. Under GDPR, non-essential cookies require your explicit consent before placement. Under CCPA, you have the right to know, delete, and opt-out of the "sale" of personal information. Under ePrivacy regulations in the EU and UK, we obtain consent before placing cookies that are not strictly necessary. Our consent management platform ensures compliance with these frameworks and allows you to exercise your rights.
9. Policy Changes and Contact
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in our practices, technology, or legal requirements. Material changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. Your continued use of our Services constitutes acceptance of any changes. For questions about our cookie practices, to revoke consent, or to exercise your privacy rights, contact [email protected]. You can also manage your preferences directly through our Cookie Customize tool or request assistance through our support portal at [email protected].