1. What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device. We also use localStorage and similar tech for theme, consent, and performance. Some cookies are essential (login, security); others are analytics or advertising and require consent in the EEA/UK.
2. How we use cookies
| Category | Purpose | Examples | Retention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | Sign-in (NextAuth), CSRF, theme, consent choice | next-auth.session-token, theme, cookie-consent | Session – 30 days |
| Analytics | Measure which tools are used, fix errors, improve UX | GA4 _ga, _ga_* | Up to 14 months |
| Advertising | Serve relevant ads, limit frequency, measure | AdSense / DoubleClick IDE, DSID, _gads | Up to 13 months |
Essential cookies cannot be refused without breaking sign-in. Analytics & advertising are off until consent in EEA/UK.
3. Google AdSense cookies
- Google AdSense loads
adsbygoogle.jsto serve ads. - Google may use cookies (including DoubleClick) to personalize ads based on your visits here and elsewhere.
- Opt out of personalized ads: Google Ads Settings or aboutads.info.
- See How Google uses ad cookies.
4. Google Analytics 4
Google Analytics 4 with anonymized IPs helps us know which tools are popular. Opt out via the GA Opt-out add-on or enable Do Not Track / Global Privacy Control.
5. How to control cookies
- Banner: In EEA/UK you’ll see a consent banner — choose “Accept”, “Reject non-essential”, or “Manage”.
- Browser: Block/delete cookies in Settings → Privacy. Links: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge.
- Ads: Opt out via Google Ads Settings / aboutads.info. Even if you opt out, you’ll still see non-personalized ads.
- Analytics: GA Opt-out add-on or DNT/GPC signal.
Withdrawing consent does not affect lawfulness before withdrawal. Some features (sign-in, paywall) require essential cookies.
6. Do Not Track / Global Privacy Control
We honor the Global Privacy Control (GPC) signal as an opt-out of cross-context ads where required (e.g., California). DNT is treated similarly where feasible.
7. Updates
We update this policy when our cookie use changes. Check the “Last updated” date.
8. Contact
Questions? support@toolslead.com or contact form.