Cookie and Local Storage Policy

How we use client-side storage to improve your experience on our website.

Last Updated: 16th September 2024

1. Introduction

8levate Ltd ("we", "us", "our") is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains how and why we use client-side storage technologies like cookies and `localStorage` on our website. This is essential for providing you with a functional and personalised experience.

By using our site after acknowledging our consent banner, you agree to the use of this essential storage as described. Our website is owned and operated by 8levate Ltd, registered in the United Kingdom.

The Types of Cookies We Use

The specific types of first and third-party cookies served through our Website and the purposes they perform are described below:

  • Essential Website Cookies: These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our Website and to use some of its features, such as access to secure areas. Who serves these cookies: 8levate, google cloud platform. How to refuse: Because these cookies are strictly necessary, you cannot refuse them.
  • Functionality Cookies: These cookies are used to enhance the performance and functionality of our Website but are non-essential to their use. For example, they may remember your login details. Who serves these cookies: 8levate. How to refuse: You can refuse these by adjusting your cookie settings at the bottom of this page, editing "Preferences and Personalisation".
  • Performance and Analytics Cookies: These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our Website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are. Who serves these cookies: Google Tag Manger, Google Analytics. How to refuse: You can refuse these by adjusting your cookie settings at the bottom of this page.

2. What We Store and Why

We do not use traditional tracking cookies for advertising or third-party marketing. Our use of browser storage is limited to what is strictly necessary for the site to function correctly and to remember your preferences. This is considered "essential" storage.

  • Authentication State (via Firebase Authentication): When you log in or sign up, Firebase Authentication uses your browser's `IndexedDB` to securely remember that you are logged in. This is critical for keeping you signed in during your session and for subsequent visits. Without this, you would have to log in on every single page. This data is managed securely by the Firebase SDK and is not used for tracking.
  • Security (via Google reCAPTCHA): To protect our platform from automated abuse and spam, we use Google reCAPTCHA v3 on our forms (like login and signup). This service works in the background to distinguish between human users and bots. This is essential for securing your account and maintaining the integrity of our service. The use of reCAPTCHA is subject to the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
  • Security (via Firebase App Check): To protect our backend services from abuse (like bots or unauthorized clients), we use Firebase App Check. This service uses browser storage (`IndexedDB`) to save a temporary token that verifies your device and application are genuine. This is an essential security measure that ensures the integrity of our platform and protects user data. It is not used for tracking users.
  • Theme Preference: We give you the option to choose a light or dark theme for our website. To remember your choice, we use `localStorage` to store your preferred theme (e.g., "light" or "dark"). If you do not consent, this preference will not be saved, and the site will default to the dark theme on each visit.
  • Consent Status: We store your consent decision ("granted" or "denied") in `localStorage`. This ensures we do not have to ask you for your preference on every visit.

3. Google Analytics and Consent Mode

We use Google Analytics to understand how visitors use our site, which helps us improve our services. We have implemented Google Consent Mode to respect your privacy choices.

  • If you decline consent: Google Analytics will still collect anonymous, aggregated data (like which pages are visited), but it will not use any browser storage and cannot identify you as an individual or returning visitor.
  • If you accept consent: Google Analytics will use limited first-party browser storage to differentiate between new and returning users, which helps us better understand usage patterns. Your data is still processed in a way that does not personally identify you.

4. Third-Party Data Sharing

We do not sell your personal data with third-party advertisers. The only third-party service that receives data is Google Analytics, and its data collection is governed by your consent choice as described above.

5. How to Manage Your Storage

You can manage and clear your browser's storage at any time through your browser settings. Please be aware that clearing all storage will log you out, reset your theme preference, and you will be asked for consent again on your next visit.

6. Updates to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for other operational, legal, or regulatory reasons. We encourage you to review it periodically.

7. Contact Us

If you have any questions about our use of cookies or this policy, please contact us at privacy@8levate.co.uk.

You can update your cookie settings at any time.

    We use cookies to improve your experience. By clicking "Accept All", you agree to our use of cookies for personalization and analytics. Read our Cookie Policy.