Cookie Policy

1. Introduction and Overview

This Cookie Policy explains how Encratex ("we," "us," or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website or interact with our online services. This policy should be read in conjunction with our Privacy Policy to understand our complete approach to data collection and processing.

Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer, mobile device, or other internet-connected device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, provide information to website owners, and enhance user experience.

2. What Are Cookies and Similar Technologies

2.1 Cookies

Cookies are small data files stored on your device that contain information about your website interactions. They can be:

• Session cookies: Temporary cookies that are deleted when you close your browser
• Persistent cookies: Cookies that remain on your device for a specified period or until manually deleted
• First-party cookies: Set directly by our website
• Third-party cookies: Set by external services we use on our website

2.2 Similar Technologies

We may also use similar technologies including:

• Web beacons: Small transparent images used to track user behavior
• Local storage: Browser storage mechanisms for maintaining user preferences
• Pixels: Tiny graphics used for analytics and tracking purposes
• Server logs: Automatically collected information about website visits

3. How We Use Cookies

Encratex uses cookies for specific, limited purposes that align with our privacy-first approach:

4. Types of Cookies We Use

4.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are essential for the website to operate correctly and provide basic functionality:

• Session management cookies for maintaining user sessions
• Security cookies to protect against malicious activity and unauthorized access
• Load balancing cookies to ensure optimal website performance
• Authentication cookies for secure access to protected areas
• CSRF protection cookies to prevent cross-site request forgery attacks

4.2 Performance and Analytics Cookies

These cookies help us understand how our website is being used and identify areas for improvement:

• Anonymous visitor statistics and traffic analysis
• Page performance metrics and loading time measurements
• Error reporting and debugging information for website improvements
• User journey analysis to optimize website navigation
• A/B testing cookies for website optimization experiments

4.3 Functional Cookies

These cookies enhance website functionality and user experience:

• Language and region preference storage
• Display settings and accessibility preferences
• Form data retention to improve user convenience
• Chat and support system functionality

5. Third-Party Cookies and Services

We carefully limit the use of third-party cookies to essential services only. Any third-party services we use are selected based on their privacy standards and minimal data collection practices:

5.1 Analytics Services

We may use privacy-focused analytics services that:

• Provide anonymized website usage statistics
• Respect user privacy and data protection rights
• Offer data minimization and retention controls
• Comply with applicable privacy regulations

5.2 Security Services

Third-party security services may use cookies to:

• Protect against DDoS attacks and malicious traffic
• Provide content delivery network (CDN) functionality
• Implement fraud detection and prevention measures
• Maintain website security and performance

5.3 Communication Tools

Customer support and communication tools may use cookies for:

• Live chat functionality and support ticket management
• Email communication tracking and delivery optimization
• Customer service quality improvement

6. Cookie Management and User Control

6.1 Browser Settings and Controls

You have several options for controlling cookies through your browser settings:

• Block all cookies from all websites
• Block third-party cookies while allowing first-party cookies
• Delete existing cookies from your device
• Set up notifications when cookies are being placed
• Configure automatic cookie deletion when closing your browser

6.2 Impact of Disabling Cookies

Disabling certain cookies may affect website functionality:

• Essential cookies: Cannot be disabled as they are necessary for basic website operations
• Performance cookies: Disabling may reduce our ability to improve website performance
• Functional cookies: May result in loss of personalized features and preferences

6.3 Opt-Out Mechanisms

For specific types of tracking, you may use:

• Browser "Do Not Track" settings
• Privacy-focused browser extensions
• Industry opt-out tools and preference centers
• Direct opt-out links provided by third-party services

7. Cookie Retention and Data Lifecycle

We implement appropriate retention periods for different types of cookies:

7.1 Retention Periods

• Session cookies: Automatically deleted when browser is closed
• Security cookies: 24 hours to 30 days depending on security requirements
• Analytics cookies: 30 days maximum with automatic expiration
• Preference cookies: 1 year maximum or until manually cleared
• Performance cookies: 90 days maximum with regular cleanup

7.2 Data Minimization

We implement data minimization principles by:

• Collecting only necessary information through cookies
• Using the shortest retention periods possible
• Regularly reviewing and updating cookie practices
• Implementing automatic data deletion procedures

8. Data Protection and Security

All cookie data is processed in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable data protection laws. We implement appropriate security measures to protect cookie information:

8.1 Security Measures

• Encryption of sensitive cookie data
• Secure transmission protocols (HTTPS)
• Access controls and authentication requirements
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Monitoring for unauthorized access or misuse

8.2 Data Processing Principles

• Lawful basis for all cookie-related data processing
• Transparency in data collection and use practices
• Purpose limitation ensuring data is used only for stated purposes
• Data accuracy and regular updates
• Storage limitation with appropriate retention periods

9. International Data Transfers

When cookies involve international data transfers, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place:

• Adequacy decisions by relevant data protection authorities
• Standard contractual clauses for international transfers
• Binding corporate rules for intra-group transfers
• Certification schemes and approved codes of conduct
• Specific derogations where applicable under data protection law

10. Updates and Changes to Cookie Practices

We may update our cookie practices and this Cookie Policy from time to time. Changes may be driven by:

• Technological developments and new cookie technologies
• Changes in legal and regulatory requirements
• Updates to our website functionality and services
• User feedback and privacy enhancement initiatives
• Industry best practices and security improvements

We will notify you of significant changes through:

• Updates to this Cookie Policy with a new "Last Updated" date
• Prominent notices on our website for major changes
• Email notifications for registered users when appropriate

11. Browser-Specific Cookie Management

Detailed instructions for managing cookies in popular web browsers:

11.1 Desktop Browsers

• Google Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data
• Mozilla Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data
• Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Cookies and website data
• Microsoft Edge: Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Cookies and site data
• Opera: Settings > Advanced > Privacy & Security > Cookies

11.2 Mobile Browsers

• Chrome Mobile: Settings > Site Settings > Cookies
• Safari Mobile: Settings > Safari > Block All Cookies
• Firefox Mobile: Settings > Data Management > Cookies
• Samsung Internet: Settings > Sites and downloads > Cookies