1. What Are Cookies and Local Storage?
Cookies are small alphanumeric text files placed on your computer, tablet, or mobile device when you visit websites. They are widely employed to make websites work efficiently, provide secure browsing, and deliver aggregated statistical feedback to site owners. In addition to HTTP cookies, modern web browsers utilize localStorage, which functions similarly to store simple key-value pairs directly in your browser.
2. Cookies and Storage Keys Employed on This Site
We maintain transparent technical categorisations for all client-side storage technologies utilized on Buddiescapsulefn.bond:
| Identifier / Key | Category | Purpose | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
buddies_cookie_consent_choice |
Essential / Functional | Stores your cookie consent choice (accept/reject/preferences) in localStorage to avoid re-prompting. |
Persistent (Until cleared) |
__cf_bm / cf_clearance |
Strictly Essential | Cloudflare security mechanisms to differentiate human visitors from malicious bots. | 30 Minutes to 1 Year |
_pk_id / _pk_ses |
Analytics (Opt-in) | Anonymised Matomo/privacy-compliant visitor journey metrics without storing individual IP addresses. | Session to 13 Months |
3. Cookie Categories Defined
- Strictly Essential Cookies: Indispensable for security, load balancing, and network communication. These cannot be disabled through our consent banner, as the website cannot function reliably without them.
- Functional Storage: Remembers your navigational settings, such as dismissing the cookie advisory or retaining mobile drawer preferences.
- Aggregated Analytics Cookies: Measures aggregate traffic volume, page reading times, and link clicks to help our editorial team identify which sections of our guide require expansion. No personal identifiers are tied to these records.
4. How to Manage and Opt Out Via Your Browser
Beyond using our website consent buttons, you can control or delete cookies through your web browser settings. Disabling cookies entirely may affect your ability to view certain interface features:
- Google Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data.
- Mozilla Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data.
- Apple Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data.
- Microsoft Edge: Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Manage and delete cookies.
5. Policy Revisions
We may update this Cookie Policy periodically to reflect technological adjustments or amendments to data protection regulations. The updated version will be published here with an updated effective date.