Cookie Policy

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device when you visit a website. They help websites remember your preferences, keep you logged in, and understand how you use the site.

We use cookies and similar technologies (such as web beacons, pixels, and local storage) to provide, protect, and improve the OpenStars platform.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

2.1 Essential Cookies

These cookies are necessary for the platform to function properly. They enable core features like:

• User authentication and session management
• Security features and fraud prevention
• Load balancing and server requests
• Remembering your cookie preferences

Duration: Session to 1 year

Can be disabled: No (required for the service)

2.2 Functional Cookies

These cookies enable enhanced features and personalization:

• Remembering your preferences and settings
• Customizing your dashboard layout
• Storing filter and search preferences
• Language and region preferences

Duration: 1 month to 1 year

Can be disabled: Yes

2.3 Analytics Cookies

These cookies help us understand how users interact with our platform:

• Pages visited and features used
• Time spent on the platform
• Error reports and performance metrics
• Aggregate usage statistics

Duration: Session to 2 years

Can be disabled: Yes

2.4 Marketing Cookies

These cookies are used to deliver relevant advertising:

• Tracking ad effectiveness
• Retargeting and remarketing
• Measuring conversion rates
• Cross-site tracking for advertising

Duration: 30 days to 2 years

Can be disabled: Yes

3. Specific Cookies We Use

4. Third-Party Cookies

We work with third-party service providers who may set cookies on our behalf:

• Google Analytics: Website analytics and usage insights
• Stripe: Payment processing and fraud detection
• Intercom: Customer support chat
• HubSpot: Marketing automation and CRM
• Meta (Facebook): Advertising and conversion tracking
• LinkedIn: Professional advertising

These third parties have their own privacy policies governing their use of cookies.

5. Managing Your Cookie Preferences

5.1 Cookie Settings

You can manage your cookie preferences at any time by clicking the "Cookie Settings" link in our footer or visiting your account settings.

5.2 Browser Controls

Most browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings:

• Chrome: Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies
• Firefox: Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies
• Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Cookies
• Edge: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies

5.3 Opt-Out Links

You can opt out of specific third-party cookies:

• Google Analytics: tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
• Meta/Facebook: facebook.com/settings?tab=ads
• Network Advertising Initiative: optout.networkadvertising.org

6. Do Not Track

Some browsers have a "Do Not Track" (DNT) feature. We currently do not respond to DNT signals, but you can use the cookie management options described above to control tracking.

7. Impact of Disabling Cookies

If you disable cookies, some features of OpenStars may not function properly:

• You may need to log in each time you visit
• Your preferences may not be saved
• Some features may be unavailable
• The platform experience may be degraded

8. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy periodically. We will notify you of significant changes through our platform or by email. The "Last updated" date at the top indicates the most recent revision.

9. Contact Us

If you have questions about our use of cookies, please contact us: