Cookie Policy

Our cookie policy and how we use them

# Cookie Policy for interview.codes

Last Updated: October 24, 2024

## 1. Introduction

This Cookie Policy explains how interview.codes ("we", "us", or "our") uses cookies and similar technologies when you visit our website (interview.codes) or use our browser extension. This policy provides you with clear and complete information about the cookies we use and the purposes for using them.

## 2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit our website or use our browser extension. They help us recognize your device and provide various features that improve your browsing experience.

## 3. Types of Cookies We Use

### 3.1. Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the website and extension to function properly:
- Authentication cookies to keep you signed in
- Session cookies to maintain your session state
- Security cookies to prevent unauthorized access
- Extension state cookies to maintain your preferences

### 3.2. Performance Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our service:
- Analytics cookies to track usage patterns
- Load balancing cookies to optimize performance
- Error monitoring cookies to identify technical issues

### 3.3. Functionality Cookies
These cookies enable enhanced features:
- Preference cookies to remember your settings
- Language preference cookies
- Theme preference cookies
- Code editor configuration cookies

### 3.4. Third-Party Cookies
We use services from these third parties that may set cookies:
- Supabase for authentication and database services
- OpenAI for generating hints and solutions
- Analytics providers for usage tracking
- Payment processors (if applicable)

## 4. Specific Cookie Details

| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|-------------|---------|----------|------|
| auth_token | Authentication | 30 days | Essential |
| user_preferences | User settings | 1 year | Functionality |
| theme_choice | UI theme selection | 1 year | Functionality |
| performance_data | Analytics | 90 days | Performance |

## 5. Browser Extension Cookies

Our browser extension uses local storage and cookies to:
- Store your preferences
- Cache frequently used data
- Maintain extension state
- Track problem-solving progress
- Store temporary hints and solutions

## 6. Cookie Management

### 6.1. Browser Settings
You can control cookies through your browser settings:
- Chrome: Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies
- Firefox: Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies
- Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Cookies
- Edge: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies

### 6.2. Extension Settings
Our browser extension provides controls to:
- Clear cached data
- Manage local storage
- Control data synchronization
- Adjust cookie preferences

### 6.3. Opt-Out Options
You may opt-out of non-essential cookies:
- Through our cookie consent banner
- Via your account settings
- Using browser privacy settings

## 7. Data Storage and Security

7.1. We implement appropriate security measures to protect cookie data.

7.2. Cookie data is encrypted where applicable.

7.3. We regularly review and update our security practices.

## 8. Cookie Consent

8.1. We obtain your consent before setting non-essential cookies.

8.2. You can modify your consent preferences at any time.

8.3. Essential cookies may be set without explicit consent as they are necessary for service functionality.

## 9. Updates to This Policy

9.1. We may update this Cookie Policy periodically.

9.2. Significant changes will be notified through:
- Website notifications
- Email communications
- Extension updates

## 10. Cookie Usage in Different Regions

### 10.1. European Union
We comply with GDPR requirements:
- Explicit consent mechanism
- Right to withdraw consent
- Detailed cookie information

### 10.2. California
We comply with CCPA requirements:
- Right to opt-out
- Data collection transparency
- Privacy rights notice

## 11. Impact of Blocking Cookies

If you choose to block certain cookies:
- Some features may not function properly
- Performance may be affected
- User preferences may not be saved
- Authentication may require more frequent login

## 12. Data Sharing

We may share cookie data with:
- Service providers (Supabase, OpenAI)
- Analytics providers
- Security monitoring services

## 13. Contact Information

For questions about our Cookie Policy:
- Email: interviewcodes@proton.me
- Website: interview.codes

## 14. Additional Information

For more details about how we handle your data, please refer to our:
- Privacy Policy
- Terms of Service