Cookie Policy
This policy explains how HearthAlbum uses cookies and similar technologies to recognize you when you visit our website.
Last updated: January 15, 2026
Cookie Summary
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer or mobile device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and to provide information to the owners of the site.
Cookies set by the website owner (in this case, HearthAlbum) are called "first-party cookies." Cookies set by parties other than the website owner are called "third-party cookies."
Cookies We Use
We use the following categories of cookies:
Essential Cookies
RequiredThese cookies are strictly necessary for the website to function. They cannot be disabled.
| Cookie | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| session_token | Keeps you logged in securely | 7 days |
| csrf_token | Protects against cross-site attacks | Session |
| cookie_consent | Remembers your cookie preferences | 1 year |
Preference Cookies
OptionalThese cookies remember your settings and preferences to enhance your experience.
| Cookie | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| theme | Remembers your light/dark mode preference | 1 year |
| view_mode | Remembers your album view preference | 1 year |
| language | Remembers your language preference | 1 year |
Analytics Cookies
OptionalThese cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website. All data is anonymized.
| Cookie | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _analytics_id | Anonymous visitor identification | 1 year |
| _analytics_session | Tracks page views within a session | 30 minutes |
Managing Your Cookie Preferences
You have several options for managing cookies:
Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to refuse or delete cookies. Check your browser's help section for instructions.
Our Cookie Banner
Use our cookie consent banner to manage optional cookies when you first visit.
Account Settings
Logged-in users can manage preferences in their account settings.
Opt-Out Links
For analytics, you can opt out using industry-standard tools.
Note: Disabling essential cookies may affect the functionality of the website and prevent you from using certain features.
Third-Party Cookies
We minimize the use of third-party cookies. The only third-party services we use are:
- Payment Processors: Secure payment processing (PesaPal, Stripe) may set their own cookies during checkout.
- Authentication: If you sign in with Google, their authentication service may set cookies.
We do not use: Advertising cookies, social media tracking pixels, or any cookies that track you across other websites.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our use of cookies, please contact us:
Email: [email protected]
Data Protection Officer: [email protected]
We aim to respond to all cookie-related inquiries within 48 hours.