1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you use our website or mobile app. They help us provide, protect, and improve the HotSpot service.
2. Types of Cookies We Use
2.1 Essential Cookies (Required)
These cookies are necessary for the Service to function properly. They enable core features like:
- User authentication and session management
- Security and fraud prevention
- Load balancing and performance
- Remembering your preferences
You cannot opt out of essential cookies.
2.2 Analytics Cookies (Optional)
These cookies help us understand how users interact with our Service:
- Pages visited and features used
- Time spent on different pages
- Error messages encountered
- Device and browser information
Providers: Google Analytics, Mixpanel
2.3 Performance Cookies (Optional)
These cookies help us improve Service performance:
- Load times and responsiveness
- Technical issues and bugs
- Feature performance testing
2.4 Marketing Cookies (Optional)
These cookies help us deliver relevant content and ads:
- Track marketing campaign effectiveness
- Personalize content recommendations
- Measure ad performance
- Retarget visitors on other platforms
Providers: Facebook Pixel, Google Ads
3. Third-Party Cookies
We work with third-party services that may set their own cookies:
3.1 Service Providers
- Google Analytics: Website and app analytics
- Mixpanel: User behavior analytics
- Stripe: Payment processing (venues)
- SendGrid: Email delivery
3.2 Social Media
- Facebook: Social sharing and login
- Instagram: Content integration
- Twitter: Social sharing
3.3 Advertising Partners
- Google Ads: Display advertising
- Facebook Ads: Social media advertising
4. Mobile App Tracking
Our mobile app uses similar tracking technologies:
- Device Identifiers: IDFA (iOS), Advertising ID (Android)
- Analytics SDKs: Firebase, Mixpanel
- Push Notifications: For Hot Alerts and friend updates
5. How Long Do Cookies Last?
5.1 Session Cookies
Deleted when you close your browser or app. Used for temporary functions like maintaining your session.
5.2 Persistent Cookies
Remain on your device for a set period or until manually deleted:
- Authentication cookies: Up to 30 days
- Preference cookies: Up to 12 months
- Analytics cookies: Up to 24 months
- Marketing cookies: Up to 12 months
6. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
6.1 Website Cookie Settings
You can manage your cookie preferences through:
- Our cookie consent banner (first visit)
- Website cookie settings (footer link)
- Your browser settings
6.2 Browser Controls
Most browsers allow you to:
- Block all cookies
- Block third-party cookies only
- Delete cookies after each session
- Get notifications before cookies are set
Browser Help Links:
6.3 Mobile App Settings
iOS: Settings > Privacy > Advertising > Limit Ad Tracking
Android: Settings > Google > Ads > Opt out of Ads Personalization
6.4 Opt-Out Tools
7. Do Not Track Signals
We currently do not respond to Do Not Track (DNT) browser signals. We await industry standards for interpreting DNT signals.
8. Impact of Disabling Cookies
Disabling cookies may affect your experience:
- You may need to log in repeatedly
- Some features may not work properly
- Your preferences won't be saved
- Content may be less personalized
9. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology or regulations. We will notify you of significant changes.
10. Contact Us
For questions about cookies or this policy: