This policy explains what cookies are, how ChartScribe uses them, and how you can manage your preferences. We comply with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and UK GDPR.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They help the site remember your preferences, understand how you use it, and improve your experience. Similar technologies include local storage, session storage, and web beacons.
2. How We Use Cookies
ChartScribe uses cookies for three purposes:
Necessary Cookies — Always Active
These cookies are essential for the platform to function. You cannot disable them.
| Cookie | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| chartscribe_session | Maintains your login session | Session |
| chartscribe_csrf | Prevents cross-site request forgery | Session |
| cookie_consent | Stores your cookie preferences | 1 year |
| a11y_settings | Remembers accessibility widget settings | 1 year |
Analytics Cookies — Optional
These help us understand how users interact with ChartScribe so we can improve it.
| Cookie | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics — distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics — distinguishes sessions | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics — throttles request rate | 1 minute |
Marketing Cookies — Optional
These are used to show you relevant content and measure the effectiveness of our marketing.
| Cookie | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _gcl_* | Google Ads — conversion tracking | 90 days |
| _fbc / _fbp | Meta Pixel — ad personalisation | 90 days |
3. Local Storage & IndexedDB
ChartScribe is a Progressive Web App (PWA). For offline functionality, we use:
- IndexedDB: Stores audio recordings locally for offline processing. Data is encrypted with AES-256-GCM using keys derived from your credentials.
- Service Worker Cache: Caches app assets for offline access. No personal data is cached.
- localStorage: Stores UI preferences (theme, sidebar state, cookie consent, accessibility settings).
All local storage data belongs to you and can be cleared at any time through your browser settings or our data retention controls.
4. Third-Party Services
We embed the following third-party services that may set their own cookies:
- Google Analytics 4: Usage analytics (anonymised IP)
- Google Tag Manager: Tag deployment
- Stripe: Payment processing (cookie only on billing pages)
5. Managing Your Preferences
You can manage cookies at any time:
- Click the Manage button on the cookie banner at the bottom of any page
- Use your browser settings to block or delete cookies
- Use the Your Online Choices tool to opt out of behavioural advertising
Note: Disabling necessary cookies will prevent you from logging in and using the platform.
6. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy as we add new features or change third-party services. Changes will be posted here with an updated date.
7. Contact
For cookie-related questions, email privacy@chartscribe.io.