1. Introduction and Scope
This Privacy Policy explains how The Criticker processes information in connection with its informational Stocks financial blog. The website is designed to provide neutral, descriptive content related to Stocks and capital market concepts. This policy applies to information collected through the website, including when users browse pages or submit a message through the Contact form. The purpose of this policy is to describe data practices in a clear, transparent, and accessible manner. The Criticker does not offer paid services, subscriptions, or transactional functionality. Use of the website is voluntary and does not require account creation.
2. Categories of Personal Information
The Criticker processes limited categories of information depending on how the website is used. Technical data may include browser type, device information, IP address, timestamps, pages accessed, and basic security logs. Information submitted through the Contact form may include an email address, message content, subject line, and optionally a name if provided by the user. Cookie-related data may include preference indicators and aggregated usage signals. The website does not request payment information, government identifiers, or financial account details.
3. Sources of Information
Information is obtained directly from users when they voluntarily submit a message through the Contact form. Additional information is generated automatically when users access the website, such as technical request data necessary for page delivery and security. Cookies or similar technologies may store or read information from a user’s device based on consent preferences. The Criticker does not acquire personal information from data brokers or third-party marketing sources.
4. Purposes of Processing
Information is processed solely for limited and defined purposes. Contact form data is used to receive, review, and respond to user inquiries. Technical data is used to operate the website, ensure availability, maintain security, and prevent misuse. Cookie-related data, where applicable, is used to support essential site functionality, remember preferences, and measure site usage in an aggregated manner. Information is not used for profiling, behavioral analysis, or marketing activities.
5. Legal Bases for Processing
Where applicable, The Criticker processes information based on user consent, such as when submitting the Contact form or accepting non-essential cookies. Certain limited processing is conducted based on legitimate interests, including maintaining website security and operational stability. These interests are balanced against user privacy through data minimization and restricted retention. Users may withdraw consent at any time, subject to processing necessary to complete or document a response.
6. Cookies and Similar Technologies
The website may use cookies or similar technologies as described in the Cookie Policy. Users are provided with a consent mechanism where required, without preselected checkboxes for non-essential cookies. Cookie preferences can be changed at any time through the mechanisms described in the Cookie Policy or browser settings. Necessary cookies support basic functionality and security. Analytics cookies, if used, operate on an aggregated basis without identifying users by name.
7. Sharing and Disclosure
The Criticker may rely on service providers for hosting, security, and limited analytics support. These providers process information only to support website operation and under appropriate instructions. The Criticker does not disclose personal information to third parties for commercial purposes. The website does not sell or share personal information and does not use targeted advertising as defined under applicable U.S. state privacy laws. No personal information is exchanged for monetary or other valuable consideration.
8. Data Retention
Information is retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this policy. Technical logs are retained for limited periods consistent with security needs. Contact form messages are retained for the duration required to respond and manage follow-up, after which they may be deleted or anonymized. Cookie retention periods depend on the cookie category and configuration. The Criticker does not retain personal information indefinitely.
9. Security Measures
The Criticker applies reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect information. These measures may include encrypted connections, access controls, and limited administrative access. While no system is completely secure, The Criticker aims to reduce risk through appropriate safeguards. Users are encouraged not to submit sensitive personal information through the Contact form. Security practices may evolve as systems change.
10. User Rights
Depending on applicable state law, users may have rights to access, correct, delete, or obtain a copy of their personal information. Users may also have the right to withdraw consent where processing is based on consent. Requests can be submitted using the contact details above. Information provided in a request is used only to verify and respond to the request. The Criticker responds within a reasonable timeframe consistent with applicable requirements.
11. Children Under 16
The website is not intended to collect personal information from individuals under 16 years of age. If a user is under 16, a parent or legal guardian must submit any Contact form message on their behalf. If information is identified as having been collected without appropriate consent, The Criticker will take reasonable steps to delete it. The website does not provide features specifically directed to children.
12. International Data Transfers
Website data may be processed by service providers located outside the user’s state or outside the United States. When such transfers occur, reasonable safeguards are applied appropriate to the nature of the data and purpose of processing. The Criticker limits transferred data to what is necessary for operation. Users may request general information about data processing locations using the contact details above.
13. Updates to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated to reflect changes in website practices or legal requirements. The “Last Updated” date indicates the most recent revision. Continued use of the website indicates acknowledgment of the updated policy.
