1. Purpose of This Cookie Policy
This Cookie Policy explains how cookies and similar technologies may be used on the The Criticker website. The site is an informational Stocks financial blog intended to provide neutral and descriptive content. Cookies are used only to support website operation, user preferences, and aggregated understanding of site usage. This policy is provided to ensure transparency and to explain available choices. Reading most pages does not require enabling non-essential cookies.
2. What Cookies Are
Cookies are small text files stored on a user’s device when visiting a website. They allow a site to recognize a browser, remember preferences, and support basic functions. Cookies can be session-based or persistent, depending on their purpose. Similar technologies may include local storage or pixels used to record limited events. The Criticker uses these technologies only where necessary for site operation or understanding aggregated usage.
3. Categories of Cookies
The website may use the following categories of cookies:
Necessary cookies that support core website functions such as security and preference storage.
Functional cookies that remember user-selected settings where applicable.
Analytics cookies that measure site usage in an aggregated and non-identifying manner.
Advertising cookies are commonly defined in general frameworks, but The Criticker does not use them for targeted advertising.
Not all categories may be active at all times, but they are listed here for clarity.
4. Purposes of Cookie Use
Necessary cookies ensure the website operates reliably and securely. Functional cookies may remember choices such as display or consent preferences. Analytics cookies, if used, help understand how pages are accessed and navigated in aggregate. These insights are used to maintain clarity and structure. Cookies are not used to personalize content or influence user behavior.
5. Cookie Retention
Cookie duration varies depending on category. Session cookies are deleted when the browser is closed. Persistent cookies remain for a defined period to remember settings or preferences. Necessary cookies may persist to record consent choices. Analytics cookies may persist for a limited period to measure trends. Users can remove cookies at any time using browser controls.
6. Consent and No Preselected Choices
Where required, the website provides a cookie consent banner. Non-essential cookies are disabled by default and require user action to enable. No preselected checkboxes are used for analytics or functional cookies. Users may accept or decline non-essential cookies freely. Consent choices are recorded only to respect the selected preference.
7. Managing Cookie Preferences
Users can manage cookie preferences through the website’s consent mechanism, where available. Browser settings can also be used to block or delete cookies. Disabling cookies may affect certain functions but does not prevent access to informational content. Users may change preferences at any time. Instructions vary by browser and device.
8. Cookies and Personal Information
Cookies may be considered personal information when combined with other data. The Criticker avoids combining cookie data with contact form information. Analytics data, where used, is aggregated and not intended to identify individuals. The website does not sell or share personal information and does not use targeted advertising. Cookie use remains limited to operational purposes.
9. Service Providers
The Criticker may use service providers for hosting, security, or analytics. These providers may set cookies to support their services. Providers process data only to support website operation. They are not permitted to use information for independent marketing. The specific tools used may change, but purposes remain consistent with this policy.
10. Updates to This Policy
This Cookie Policy may be updated to reflect changes in cookie usage or requirements. The “Last Updated” date indicates the most recent revision. Continued use of the website indicates awareness of the policy.
