Cookie Policy

Last updated: 2025-11-05

This Cookie Policy explains how USTOP Consulting (“we”, “us”, or “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website. It is designed to comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the ePrivacy rules, and applicable U.S. state privacy laws including the California Consumer Privacy Act and California Privacy Rights Act (CCPA/CPRA), as well as similar requirements in Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, and Utah where relevant.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device by a website. They are widely used to make websites work, improve user experience, and provide information to site owners. Similar technologies include local storage, pixels, tags, and SDKs; we refer to these collectively as “cookies.”

2. How We Use Cookies

3. Legal Bases & Consent (EU/EEA/UK)

For strictly necessary cookies, our legal basis is legitimate interests in operating a secure, functional website. For performance/analytics cookies, our legal basis is your consent collected via the on‑site cookie banner. You can change or withdraw your consent at any time using the banner or your browser settings.

4. U.S. State Privacy Disclosures

• We do not “sell” personal information as defined by CCPA/CPRA. We may “share” limited data for cross‑context behavioral advertising only if you consent to analytics cookies.
• If applicable, you may exercise opt‑out rights for “sale” or “sharing” by disabling analytics cookies and sending a signal via your browser (e.g., Global Privacy Control GPC). We honor recognized GPC signals where legally required.
• To submit requests to know, correct, delete, or limit use of sensitive personal information, contact us at [email protected].

5. Retention

Cookie durations vary. Session cookies expire when you close the browser; persistent cookies remain until their set expiry. We use the shortest practical retention periods consistent with their purpose, typically ranging from a few minutes to 13 months for analytics cookies (if enabled).

6. Third‑Party Cookies

We may use service providers for hosting, analytics, or security. Where third‑party cookies are placed, they are subject to the third party’s privacy policy. We require contractual safeguards to protect your information. If analytics are enabled, you can find more information through the provider’s documentation.

7. Managing Cookies

• Consent Banner: Use our on‑site banner to accept or reject analytics cookies at any time.
• Browser Controls: Most browsers allow you to block, delete, or limit cookies. See the Help section for your browser.
• Global Privacy Control (GPC): If your browser sends a GPC signal, we will honor it where required by law.
• Do Not Track (DNT): While standards vary, we endeavor to respect applicable signals in line with legal obligations.

8. Children’s Data

Our site is intended for adults. We do not knowingly use cookies to track children under 16. If you believe a child’s information has been collected, contact us to request deletion.

9. International Transfers

If cookies lead to processing outside your jurisdiction, we implement appropriate safeguards (e.g., contractual clauses) consistent with applicable laws.

10. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. Material changes will be reflected on this page with the “Last updated” date above. Your continued use of the site after changes become effective signifies consent to the updated policy.

11. Contact

If you have questions or requests about cookies or privacy, please contact our team at [email protected]. You can also review our Privacy Policy for more information about our data practices and your rights.