This Cookie Policy explains how Ian J Barwell ("we", "us", or "our") uses cookies and similar technologies on our website ianjbarwell.com (the "Site"). This policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit websites. They help the website remember information about your visit, which can make it easier to visit the site again and make the site more useful to you.
2. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies for the following purposes:
- Essential Cookies: Necessary for the website to function properly
- Performance Cookies: Help us understand how visitors interact with our website
- Functionality Cookies: Allow the website to remember choices you make
- Targeting Cookies: Used to track affiliate referrals and marketing performance
3. Types of Cookies We Use
3.1 Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| session_cookie | Maintains your session while using our site | Session |
| security_cookie | Helps protect against cross-site request forgery | 24 hours |
3.2 Performance and Analytics Cookies
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics - throttles request rate | 1 minute |
3.3 Functionality Cookies
These cookies enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalization.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| preferences | Stores your site preferences | 1 year |
| affiliate_ref | Remembers affiliate referral source | 30 days |
4. Third-Party Cookies
We work with third-party companies that may set cookies on our website, including:
- Affiliate Networks: To track referrals and commissions
- Analytics Providers: To understand how users interact with our site
- Social Media Platforms: For sharing content and tracking
These third parties have their own privacy policies and cookie policies.
5. Your Cookie Choices (GDPR Compliance)
Under GDPR, we are required to obtain your consent for non-essential cookies. You can control your cookie preferences in the following ways:
5.1 Browser Controls
You can set or amend your web browser controls to accept or refuse cookies. Most browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer.
5.2 Cookie Consent Banner
When you first visit our site, you will see a cookie consent banner where you can choose which types of cookies you accept.
5.3 Opt-Out Tools
You can opt out of certain third-party cookies:
- Google Analytics Opt-Out
- Adjust your preferences through our cookie settings tool
6. How to Manage Cookies
You can manage cookies through your browser settings. Here are links to commonly used browsers:
7. Changes to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Cookie Policy on this page and updating the "Last Updated" date.
8. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy, please contact us at:
Email: privacy@ianjbarwell.com