Cookie Analysis & Policy
Last Updated: 2024 | Jurisdiction: British Columbia, Canada
Introduction to Cookie Protocols
Local Ridge Journal ("we", "us", "our") is committed to transparency regarding how we collect and process data. This Cookie Analysis document explains how we use cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our platform focused on financial literacy in Victoria, BC.
As we operate within Victoria, British Columbia, our data practices are governed by the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) of British Columbia and, where applicable, the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). We also align our standards with international frameworks like the GDPR for our global visitors.
What are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They serve various functions, such as remembering your preferences, analyzing site performance, and ensuring that our financial guides are delivered efficiently to your browser.
Under Canadian anti-spam legislation (CASL) and privacy laws, cookies are considered a means of collecting personal information if they can identify an individual. Local Ridge Journal ensures that such collection is performed only with implied or express consent, depending on the cookie category.
Categories of Cookies We Use
We categorize our cookies based on their purpose. Below is a detailed breakdown of the technologies used on this site:
1. Strictly Necessary Cookies
These are essential for the website to function. They allow you to navigate the site and use essential features like secure areas (e.g., banking protocol guides).
- Purpose: Security, load balancing, session management.
- Lifespan: Session-based (deleted when browser closes).
- Requirement: Cannot be disabled as the site will not function without them.
2. Performance & Analytical Cookies
These help us understand how visitors interact with our Victoria financial resources. We use this data to improve site speed and content relevance.
- Examples: Google Analytics, Hotjar.
- Data Collected: Pages visited, time spent, bounce rate, device type.
- Lifespan: 30 days to 2 years.
3. Functional & Marketing Cookies
These cookies remember your choices (like language) and may be used to provide more relevant advertisements related to local financial services in Victoria.
- Examples: Social media plugins, ad-retargeting pixels.
- Lifespan: Up to 1 year.
- Control: Requires express consent via our banner.
Legal Basis for Processing
In accordance with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) guidelines, we rely on the following legal bases:
- Implied Consent: For strictly necessary cookies required for the basic operation of the site.
- Express Consent: For tracking, analytical, and marketing cookies. By clicking "Accept" on our cookie banner, you provide express consent for these activities.
Note: Residents of the European Economic Area (EEA) are afforded rights under the GDPR, where consent must be freely given, specific, and informed.
Managing Your Preferences
You have the right to decide whether to accept or reject cookies. You can exercise your preferences by clicking the button below or by adjusting your browser settings.
Browser Control
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can set your browser to:
- Block all cookies.
- Only block third-party cookies.
- Clear all cookies when you close the browser.
Warning: If you disable all cookies, some parts of the Local Ridge Journal website may not function correctly, particularly the interactive financial calculators.
Third-Party Cookies
We may partner with third-party service providers (such as local Victoria credit unions or financial analytical firms) who may also place cookies on your device. We do not control these third-party cookies. We recommend checking the privacy policies of these third parties for more information about their cookie practices.
Contact & Compliance
If you have questions about our Cookie Analysis or how we handle your data in the context of British Columbia's privacy laws, please contact our Data Protection Officer:
Local Ridge Journal
Address: 735 Yates Street, Victoria
Email:
Phone: +1 (878) 949-9928