This Cookie Policy explains how USConf ("we," "us," or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website usconf.com (the "Site"). This policy should be read in conjunction with our Privacy Policy.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and to provide information to website owners. Cookies help us understand how you use our Site and improve your experience.
2. Types of Cookies We Use
2.1 Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the Site to function properly. They enable basic functions like page navigation, security features, and access to secure areas of the Site. The Site cannot function properly without these cookies.
Examples:
- Session management cookies
- Security and authentication cookies
- Load balancing cookies
2.2 Preference Cookies
These cookies allow the Site to remember choices you make (such as your preferred language, region, or theme preference) and provide enhanced, more personalized features.
Examples:
- Dark mode preference
- Filter and search preferences
- Display preferences
2.3 Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our Site by collecting and reporting information anonymously. This helps us improve the Site and understand which pages are most popular.
Examples:
- Google Analytics cookies
- Page view tracking
- User behavior analytics
2.4 Advertising Cookies (including Google AdSense)
We show advertising through Google AdSense to help fund the directory. Google and its advertising partners set cookies on your device to measure ad performance, limit how often you see the same ad, and, where permitted, deliver ads based on your interests.
Examples of advertising cookies you may see:
- Google advertising cookies (including the DoubleClick DART cookie,
IDE,ANID,NID) - Frequency-capping and ad-measurement cookies
- Retargeting cookies set by advertising partners when you visit their sites
For full detail on how Google uses cookies in advertising, see Google's ad technologies policy. To control what personalised ads you see, visit Google Ads Settings.
3. First-Party vs. Third-Party Cookies
3.1 First-Party Cookies
These cookies are set directly by USConf and are used only by us. They help us provide the best possible experience on our Site.
3.2 Third-Party Cookies
These cookies are set by third-party services we use on our Site, such as analytics providers or advertising networks. We do not control these cookies, and they are subject to the third parties' privacy policies.
4. Local Storage
In addition to cookies, we may use local storage (such as localStorage and sessionStorage) to store data on your device. This technology is similar to cookies but allows us to store larger amounts of data and provides better performance.
We use local storage for:
- Theme preferences (light/dark mode)
- Search history (optional)
- Form data persistence
5. How to Control Cookies
5.1 Browser Settings
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can set your browser to:
- Block all cookies
- Block third-party cookies only
- Clear cookies when you close your browser
- Alert you when cookies are being set
5.2 Browser-Specific Instructions
- Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data
- Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
- Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Cookies and website data
- Edge: Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Cookies and site data
5.3 Opt-Out Tools
You can control or opt out of many third-party advertising cookies using these tools:
- Google Ads Settings: google.com/settings/ads
- Google Analytics opt-out add-on: tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
- Digital Advertising Alliance (US): aboutads.info/choices
- Network Advertising Initiative: networkadvertising.org/choices
- Your Online Choices (EU/UK): youronlinechoices.com
5.4 Important Note
Please note that blocking or deleting cookies may impact your experience on our Site. Some features may not function properly, and you may need to re-enter your preferences each time you visit.
6. Cookie Duration
6.1 Session Cookies
These temporary cookies are deleted when you close your browser. They help us remember your actions during a single browsing session.
6.2 Persistent Cookies
These cookies remain on your device for a set period (ranging from days to years) or until you manually delete them. They help us recognize you as a returning visitor and remember your preferences.
7. Do Not Track Signals
Some browsers offer a "Do Not Track" (DNT) signal. Currently, there is no industry standard for how websites should respond to DNT signals. We do not currently respond to DNT signals, but we are committed to respecting your privacy preferences.
8. Updates to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for legal or regulatory reasons. We will notify you of any material changes by posting the updated policy on this page with a new "Last Updated" date.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about our use of cookies, please contact us:
USConf
Email: privacy@usconf.com
General Inquiries: hello@usconf.com
Contact Form: usconf.com/contact.html