Cookie Policy

Explains the cookies and similar technologies CareStep uses, their purpose, and how users can control them through browser settings.

Status: Draft for professional legal review — not yet in force. Version: 1.0-draft · Effective date: [To be set at publication]

1. Purpose

This Cookie Policy explains how the CareStep platform ("Platform") uses cookies and similar technologies, and how you can control them. It supplements the Privacy Policy.

2. Definitions

• Cookie — a small text file placed on your device when you visit a website or use an application.
• Similar technologies — local storage, pixels and other storage mechanisms used for the same purposes.
• Other capitalised terms have the meanings in the Privacy Policy.

3. Scope

This Cookie Policy applies to all visitors and users of the Platform and to all cookies and similar technologies used by CareStep or its service providers.

4. What cookies are

Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website or use an application. They help the Platform remember you, understand how it is used, and provide features and security.

5. Types of cookies we use

3.1 Essential cookies

Required for the Platform to function (for example, authentication sessions, security tokens, consent preferences, load balancing). These cannot be disabled while using the Platform.

3.2 Analytics cookies

Help us understand how users interact with the Platform (pages visited, features used, errors, session length) so we can improve it. These may be set by us or by analytics providers.

3.3 Preference cookies

Remember your choices (language, theme, notification preferences).

3.4 Marketing cookies

Used (where you consent) to show relevant information and measure campaigns. CareStep does not currently run third-party advertising; this section applies if such features are introduced.

6. Purpose of cookies

• Operating and securing the Platform.
• Remembering your login and preferences.
• Measuring and improving performance.
• Understanding feature usage.
• Supporting fraud prevention and abuse detection.

7. How to control cookies

• Browser settings: most browsers let you view, block or delete cookies via settings. Blocking essential cookies may prevent the Platform from working correctly.
• Platform settings: where a consent banner is displayed, you can accept or reject non-essential cookies at any time through the banner or settings.
• Analytics opt-out: where applicable, you may opt out of analytics collection through the controls provided.

8. Duration

Cookie lifetimes vary: session cookies expire when you close your browser; persistent cookies expire after the period set for each cookie (typically up to [12 — to be confirmed] months, or as adjusted for legal requirements).

9. Third-party cookies

Third-party services we use (analytics, payment gateways, messaging) may set their own cookies, governed by their own policies.

10. Contact

For questions about this Cookie Policy, contact us as set out in the Privacy Policy, Clause 13.

11. Revision & version control

• Version: 1.0-draft
• Last reviewed: [To be confirmed]
• Effective date: [To be set at publication]
• This is a draft for professional legal review. Do not publish or rely on it in production until reviewed and issued.