Cookies Policy

This Cookies Policy explains how our hybrid search engine ("we", "us", or "our") uses cookies and similar technologies to provide, personalize, and improve your experience on our website. It is compliant with the EU ePrivacy Directive and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet) when you visit a website. They help websites function properly and can collect information about your browsing behavior and preferences.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

  • Essential Cookies: Required for the basic operation of the website, such as navigation and access to secure areas. These cannot be disabled.
  • Performance Cookies: Help us understand how users interact with the website by collecting anonymous statistics (e.g., page views, time spent).
  • Functionality Cookies: Allow the site to remember choices you’ve made (like language or region).
  • Targeting/Advertising Cookies: May be set by third parties to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant ads. These require your consent.

3. Legal Basis for Using Cookies

Under GDPR and the ePrivacy Directive, we are permitted to store strictly necessary cookies without your consent. For all other types of cookies, we will ask for your explicit consent before placing them on your device.

4. How We Use Cookies

We use cookies to:

  • Ensure the proper functionality of our hybrid search engine.
  • Analyze usage and improve the performance of the website.
  • Remember your preferences (e.g., dark mode, language).
  • Show you relevant content and, where applicable, advertising.

5. Third-Party Cookies

Some cookies on our site may be placed by third-party services (such as analytics or embedded content providers). These third parties may use cookies independently and have their own privacy policies.

6. Cookie Duration

Cookies may be:

  • Session cookies – Deleted automatically when you close your browser.
  • Persistent cookies – Remain on your device until they expire or are manually deleted.

7. Managing Cookie Preferences

You can manage your cookie preferences at any time:

  • Use our cookie banner or settings panel to enable/disable non-essential cookies.
  • Adjust your browser settings to block or delete cookies.
  • Visit YourOnlineChoices.eu to opt out of interest-based advertising from participating providers.

8. Consent and Withdrawal

Upon your first visit, you will be asked to consent to the use of cookies (except for strictly necessary ones). You can withdraw or change your consent at any time via the cookie settings available on the website.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Cookies Policy to reflect changes in technology, law, or our practices. Updates will be posted here with a revised effective date. Please check this page regularly to stay informed.

10. Contact Us

If you have any questions about our use of cookies or this policy, please contact us.

By continuing to use our hybrid search engine, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Cookies Policy.