Cookie Policy
1. Introduction
Branchways (“we”, “our”, “us”) uses cookies and similar technologies to operate and improve the Service. This Cookie Policy explains what cookies we use, how we use them, and how you can control them.
This Policy complies with:
- PIPEDA (Canada)
- GDPR (EU/EEA)
- COPPA (regarding cookies and children under 13)
- Applicable provincial privacy laws
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you use our Service. They help us:
- Keep users logged in
- Analyze site performance
- Display embedded content (such as YouTube videos)
Some cookies are essential for the Service to function. Others are optional and require consent in certain jurisdictions.
3. Types of Cookies We Use
3.1 Essential Cookies (Required)
These cookies are necessary for the Service to function and cannot be disabled.
| Cookie Type | Purpose | Example(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication Cookies | Keep you securely logged in; maintain your session. | Your auth/session cookie |
| Security Cookies | Detect abuse, ensure account integrity, protect data. | CSRF protection cookies |
| Functional Cookies | Essential preferences and Service operations. | Feature flags, UI state |
Legal basis: PIPEDA – appropriate for service provision; GDPR – legitimate interest or performance of contract.
3.2 Performance and Analytics Cookies (Optional)
Currently inactive – analytics tools may be added later.
3.3 Third-Party Cookies (YouTube Embed)
When you embed a YouTube video, YouTube (Google LLC) may set cookies on your device.
| Cookie Owner | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube / Google | Track video views, prevent fraud, improve recommendations, collect engagement metrics | May set tracking cookies even if you do not interact with the video |
These cookies may track users across websites and be used for personalization or ad performance measurement. Users in the EU require consent before these cookies load.
4. Cookies and Children Under 13
- Branchways does not set non-essential cookies for students under 13.
- We do not use cookies for advertising or profiling.
- YouTube embeds should use
youtube-nocookie.comto reduce tracking.
5. How We Use Cookies
- Authenticate users
- Maintain secure sessions
- Improve Service performance
- Display video content (YouTube)
- Protect the platform against abuse
We do not use cookies for advertising, behavioral profiling, or selling personal information.
6. How to Manage Cookies
6.1 Your Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to block, delete, or manage cookies, and send Do Not Track requests. Blocking essential cookies may break parts of the Service.
6.2 Consent (GDPR / International Users)
Essential cookies are always enabled. Non-essential cookies require consent and can be withdrawn at any time.
7. Third-Party Provider Information
YouTube / Google LLC: Google’s privacy policies apply when their cookies are set, including analytics and video interaction tracking. Data may be processed in the U.S. Users should refer to Google’s privacy policy for details.
8. Changes to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy periodically. Continued use of the Service indicates acceptance of any changes.
9. Contact Information
Email: contact@branchways.com
Last updated: December 2025