Cookie & Local Storage Policy
Last Updated: November 1, 2026 • Version 2.2
1. Local Device Storage (localStorage)
For client-side utility tools and website visual preferences, we use your browser's local memory (HTML5 localStorage) strictly for essential client UI state:
| Key | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| theme | Stores your selected visual appearance: light, dark, or system default. | Persistent on device |
2. Essential Authentication Cookies (Reviewers Only)
When you register or sign in to publish community software reviews or manage your reviewer account at /reviews/account, an essential HTTP-only authentication cookie is set:
| Cookie Name | Type & Security | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| auth_token | HttpOnly, Secure, SameSite=Lax | Authenticates signed-in reviewers and protects review moderation actions. | 30 days |
This cookie is strictly necessary for account security and cannot be disabled without preventing sign-in. It is never used for advertising or cross-site tracking.
3. Web Analytics Cookies (Google Analytics 4)
To understand overall platform health, popular tools, and technical performance, AuditOptima supports Google Analytics 4 integration via optional administrative configuration. When activated:
- Google Analytics uses first-party cookies (e.g.
_ga,_ga_*) to distinguish unique visits and measure aggregate traffic. - IP anonymization is enforced by default.
- No personal tool inputs, financial calculation figures, or uploaded media are ever transmitted to analytics services.
4. Advertising Disclosures (Google AdSense Readiness)
Commercial advertisements on AuditOptima are disabled by default. If advertising is activated in the future, Google AdSense and accredited third-party advertising partners may use cookies to serve non-intrusive advertisements based on visits to this and other websites. You can manage personalized advertising preferences at any time via Google Ad Settings.
5. How to Control and Clear Storage
You have full control over cookies and local storage. You can configure your browser to block third-party cookies, reject all cookies, or clear stored site data:
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Third-party cookies > Delete browsing data.
- Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data.
- Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All.