Cookie Notice
Effective Date: November 14, 2024 | Version: 2.0
This Cookie Notice explains how PortugalPlayZone uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website. We are committed to transparency about how we collect and use data to provide you with the best possible online experience while respecting your privacy choices.
Understanding Cookies
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files containing a unique identifier that are placed on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet) when you visit a website. They allow the website to recognise your device and remember information about your visit, such as your preferences, login status, and browsing history.
How Long Do Cookies Last?
Session Cookies
Temporary cookies that are automatically deleted when you close your browser. These enable basic website functionality during your visit.
Persistent Cookies
Remain on your device for a set period or until manually deleted. These remember your preferences across multiple visits.
First-Party vs Third-Party Cookies
First-Party Cookies: Set directly by our website and can only be read by us. These are essential for providing core functionality.
Third-Party Cookies: Set by external services integrated into our website (such as analytics providers, advertising networks, or social media platforms). These may track your activity across multiple websites.
Categories of Cookies We Use
1. Strictly Necessary Cookies
Always Active - Cannot Be Disabled
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly. They enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility. Without these cookies, certain services cannot be provided.
| Purpose | Examples | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication & Security | Login sessions, CSRF protection | Session |
| Load Balancing | Server routing, performance optimisation | Session |
| Cookie Consent | Recording your cookie preferences | 12 months |
2. Performance & Analytics Cookies
Optional - Requires Consent
These cookies collect aggregated information about how visitors use our website, helping us understand usage patterns and improve performance. All data is collected anonymously.
| Service | Purpose | Provider | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | Website traffic analysis, user behaviour tracking | Google LLC | Up to 24 months |
| Hotjar | Heatmaps, session recordings, user feedback | Hotjar Ltd | 12 months |
| Custom Analytics | Page views, bounce rates, conversion tracking | Internal | 6 months |
3. Functionality Cookies
Optional - Enhances User Experience
These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalisation, such as remembering your preferences, language selection, region, and customised settings.
4. Targeting & Advertising Cookies
Optional - Requires Explicit Consent
These cookies track your browsing activity to deliver advertisements that are relevant to your interests. They may be set by our advertising partners and can track you across different websites.
| Service | Purpose | Provider | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Ads | Display targeted advertising, retargeting | Google LLC | Up to 24 months |
| Facebook Pixel | Ad campaign tracking, audience building | Meta Platforms | Up to 12 months |
| LinkedIn Insight | B2B advertising, conversion tracking | LinkedIn Corporation | Up to 12 months |
5. Social Media Cookies
These cookies are set by social media platforms integrated into our website, allowing you to share content or interact with social features. They may also track your browsing activity for advertising purposes.
Other Tracking Technologies
In addition to cookies, we may use other tracking technologies:
Web Beacons (Pixels)
Tiny transparent graphics used to track user behaviour and email interactions.
Local Storage
Browser storage mechanisms that retain data locally on your device.
Device Fingerprinting
Collecting device characteristics to create a unique identifier for security purposes.
Server Logs
Automatic recording of access information including IP addresses and timestamps.
Managing Your Cookie Preferences
Cookie Consent Tool
When you first visit our website, you'll see a cookie banner allowing you to accept or customise your cookie preferences. You can change your settings at any time by clicking the "Cookie Settings" link in our website footer.
Browser Settings
You can control and delete cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to refuse cookies, delete existing cookies, or be notified when cookies are being set. Please note that disabling cookies may affect website functionality.
Opt-Out Tools
You can opt out of specific advertising cookies using these industry tools:
Legal Basis & Compliance
Our use of cookies complies with the UK Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and UK GDPR. We obtain your consent before placing non-essential cookies on your device, and we provide clear information about each cookie category.
For cookies that process personal data, our legal basis is consent (for non-essential cookies) or legitimate interests (for strictly necessary cookies). You can withdraw consent at any time through our cookie management tool.
Third-Party Cookie Policies
Third-party services integrated into our website may set their own cookies. We recommend reviewing their privacy and cookie policies:
| Service | Purpose | Privacy Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | Website analytics | View Policy |
| Facebook/Meta | Social media, advertising | View Policy |
| Professional networking, advertising | View Policy |
Impact of Disabling Cookies
Important Notice
While you have the right to refuse cookies, please be aware that disabling certain cookies may impact your experience on our website:
- You may not be able to use certain features or services
- You may need to re-enter information or preferences on each visit
- Some pages may not display correctly or function as intended
- Personalised content and recommendations may not be available
Updates to This Notice
We may update this Cookie Notice periodically to reflect changes in our practices, technology, legal requirements, or business operations. Any significant changes will be communicated through a prominent notice on our website. The "Effective Date" at the top of this notice indicates when it was last revised.
Further Information & Contact
If you have questions about our use of cookies or wish to exercise your data protection rights, please contact us:
- Email: support@portugalplayzone.com
- Postal Address: Avenida da Liberdade 195, 1250-142 Lisboa, Portugal
For more information about how we handle your personal data, please refer to our Privacy Notice.
Additional Resources
For more information about cookies and online privacy:
- Information Commissioner's Office (ICO): www.ico.org.uk/cookies
- About Cookies: www.aboutcookies.org
- All About Cookies: www.allaboutcookies.org