1. What cookies are
Cookies and similar technologies (such as local storage) are small files or pieces of data stored on your device. They let a website remember your actions and preferences, keep you signed in, and understand how the service is used.
2. The cookies we use
| Category | Purpose | Consent needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Strictly necessary | Sign-in / authentication, security, load-balancing, remembering your cookie choice, and protecting against abuse and automation (rate-limiting). | No — exempt (essential to provide the service you request) |
| Analytics / statistical | First-party product analytics to understand usage and improve the service. Used only for statistical purposes; not used for advertising or shared for cross-site tracking. | Not required for prior consent under PECR as amended (statistical-purposes exemption), but you can opt out at any time. |
| Preferences | Remembering choices you make to personalise the appearance of the service. | No — exempt where used solely for this purpose |
We do not use advertising or cross-site tracking cookies. If that ever changes, we will update this policy and ask for your prior consent where the law requires it.
3. The law we follow
We comply with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) as amended by the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, and with UK GDPR. From 5 February 2026, certain low-risk cookies — including analytics used solely to collect statistical information to improve a service — no longer require prior consent, provided we tell you about them and give you an easy way to object. That is what this policy and our cookie banner do.
4. How to control cookies
- Our banner / settings — when you first visit, you can accept or reject non-essential (analytics) cookies. You can change your choice at any time using the cookie controls.
- Your browser — you can block or delete cookies in your browser settings. Blocking strictly necessary cookies may stop parts of the service from working (for example, staying signed in).
5. More information
For how we handle the personal data behind these technologies, see our Privacy Policy. For questions, contact [privacy@sharpen.cv]. You can also learn more from the UK Information Commissioner's Office at ico.org.uk.