About cookies and similar technologies
• Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work, improve performance, and provide information to the site owners.
• We also use similar technologies such as pixels, tags, SDKs, local storage and scripts which perform a comparable function.
When cookies may be “personal information”
• Some cookies are anonymous and cannot identify you. However, in certain cases, cookies can be used in conjunction with other data (such as device identifiers, IP address or unique IDs) to single out or indirectly identify you. In those circumstances, cookies and the data derived from them may constitute “personal data” or “personal information” under applicable laws. Where this is the case, we handle that data in line with our Privacy Policy and your rights.
Our basis for using cookies: your consent and your control
• We only use non essential cookies (for example, analytics, functional and advertising cookies) with your consent. You can choose the categories you accept using our cookie banner/consent manager and you can withdraw or change your choices at any time.
• Strictly necessary cookies that are required for the Site to function are set automatically and do not require consent, but you can block them via your browser settings (note this may impact the Site’s functionality).
You have control over how and when cookies are collected:
• Use the “Cookie Settings” link in our footer or banner to manage or withdraw consent at any time.
• Adjust your browser settings to block or delete cookies.
• Opt out of certain third-party cookies via the providers’ own tools where available.
Types of cookies we use
• Strictly necessary cookies: Enable core functions such as page navigation, security, session management and access to secure areas. The Site cannot function properly without these.
• Performance/analytics cookies: Help us understand how visitors use the Site (for example, pages visited, time on page, error diagnostics) so we can improve performance and usability. We use these only with your consent and implement measures such as IP masking where feasible.
• Functional cookies: Remember choices you make (such as region or preferences) to provide enhanced, more personalised features.
• Advertising/targeting cookies: May be set by us or our partners to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant content or adverts on this and other sites. These work by uniquely identifying your browser or device and are only used with your consent.
• Social media cookies: Enable you to share content and interact with social platforms. These may track your activity across websites and require your consent.
Third-party cookies
• Some cookies are set by third parties (for example, analytics providers, advertising networks, video hosting and social platforms). These third parties may process your data for their own purposes in accordance with their privacy policies.
• Our consent manager lists the current cookies and vendors in use on the Site. Specific cookies may change over time as we improve and update our services.
How to manage cookies
• Through our consent manager: Click “Cookie Settings” at any time to review or update your preferences, including withdrawing consent with immediate effect.
• Through your browser: Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies. The “Help” function of your browser explains how. Blocking all cookies may affect the Site’s functionality.
• Third party opt outs: Some providers offer opt out tools (for example, for analytics or advertising). These are subject to each provider’s terms and may rely on setting an opt out cookie on your device.
• Do Not Track: Some browsers offer a Do Not Track (DNT) signal. There is no common industry standard for responding to DNT. We respect consent settings made via our banner and will continue to review emerging standards.
Retention: how long cookies last
• Session cookies expire when you close your browser.
• Persistent cookies remain on your device for a defined period or until you delete them. Retention periods vary by cookie and purpose. Our consent manager lists typical lifespans for each cookie where available.
Changes to this Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, law or our practices. Where required, we will notify you of material changes.
Contact us If you have any questions about our use of cookies or this Policy, please contact us at connect@guardianproltd.com