1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how Early June Ventures, dba Skrutinize (“Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website www.skrutinize.com and related services (collectively, the “Services”).
This Cookie Policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
By using our Services, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this Policy, unless you have disabled them as explained below.
2. What Are Cookies?
2.1 Definition
Cookies are small text files placed on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet) when you visit a website. Cookies are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and to provide information to website owners.
2.2 How Cookies Work
When you visit our website:
- Your browser downloads cookies to your device
- Cookies store small amounts of data
- When you return, cookies are sent back to our servers
- This allows us to recognize your device and remember your preferences
2.3 Information Stored in Cookies
Cookies may store information such as:
- Unique identifier for your device
- Preferences and settings
- Items in your shopping cart
- Login status and session information
- Pages visited and links clicked
- Time and date of visits
3. Types of Cookies We Use
3.1 Essential Cookies (Strictly Necessary)
Purpose: Required for the website to function properly.
What they do:
- Enable basic website functionality
- Remember login status
- Maintain security and prevent fraud
- Enable secure transactions
- Remember cart items
- Support website infrastructure
Duration: Session cookies (deleted when you close browser) or persistent cookies (remain until expiration).
Can you disable them? No. These cookies are necessary for the website to work.
Examples:
- Authentication cookies (keep you logged in)
- Security cookies (detect abuse)
- Load balancing cookies (distribute traffic)
- User interface customization cookies (remember preferences)
3.2 Analytics and Performance Cookies
Purpose: Help us understand how visitors use our website.
What they do:
- Track pages visited and time spent
- Monitor performance and errors
- Identify popular content and features
- Analyze traffic patterns and user behavior
- Generate statistical reports
- Improve website design and functionality
Duration: Typically 1–2 years.
Can you disable them? Yes (see Section 7).
Third-party services we use:
- Google Analytics (cookies: _ga, _gid, _gat)
- Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy
- Opt-out: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
What we learn:
- Number of visitors and page views
- Traffic sources
- Geographic location (country/city)
- Device type and browser
- Time spent on pages
- Navigation paths
- Bounce rates and exits
3.3 Functionality Cookies
Purpose: Remember your choices and provide enhanced features.
What they do:
- Remember username (not password)
- Recall language preference
- Save text size and display settings
- Store location for localized content
- Remember previous searches
- Personalize content
- Enable social features
Duration: Typically 1–2 years.
Can you disable them? Yes, but some features may not work properly.
Examples:
- Language selection cookie
- Region/location cookie
- Display preference cookies
- Video player settings
- Sound volume preferences
3.4 Advertising and Targeting Cookies
Purpose: Deliver relevant advertisements and measure effectiveness.
What they do:
- Track browsing activity across websites
- Build a profile of your interests
- Deliver targeted ads
- Measure performance and conversions
- Limit ad frequency
- Enable retargeting campaigns
Duration: Typically 1–2 years.
Can you disable them? Yes (see Section 7).
Third-party advertising services we use:
- Google Ads (cookies: IDE, DSID, 1P_JAR, CONSENT)
- Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy
- Opt-out: https://adssettings.google.com
- Facebook Pixel (cookies: fr, _fbp)
- Privacy Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/explanation
- Opt-out: https://www.facebook.com/settings/?tab=ads
- Other advertising networks may also be used and have their own policies.
How targeted advertising works:
- You visit our website and advertising cookies are placed
- You browse other websites
- Ad networks recognize your cookie and may display our ads
- Ads may also be shown based on your broader interests
3.5 Social Media Cookies
Purpose: Enable social media features and track sharing.
What they do:
- Allow content sharing
- Enable “Like” and “Share” buttons
- Show social feeds
- Track shared content
- Enable social logins
Duration: Set by the social platforms (typically 1–2 years).
Can you disable them? Yes, but social features may not work.
Platforms we integrate with:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/explanation
- Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/en/privacy
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy
Important: Social media companies may track activity even if you do not click their buttons, because the elements load on our pages.
4. First-Party vs. Third-Party Cookies
4.1 First-Party Cookies
Set by: Skrutinize
Used for: Essential functions, preferences, site analytics, user experience improvements
Control: We control these cookies
4.2 Third-Party Cookies
Set by: External partners (Google, Facebook, ad networks, etc.)
Used for: Analytics, advertising/retargeting, social features, embedded services
Control: These cookies are controlled by third parties. Please review their privacy policies.
5. Session vs. Persistent Cookies
5.1 Session Cookies
Duration: Deleted when you close your browser
Purpose: Maintain sessions, keep cart active, support functionality during visit
5.2 Persistent Cookies
Duration: Remain until expiration or deletion
Purpose: Remember preferences, track behavior, enable “Remember Me”
Typical duration: 1 month to 2 years
6. Other Tracking Technologies
In addition to cookies, we may use:
6.1 Web Beacons (Pixel Tags)
Small invisible images in web pages/emails used to track opens, traffic, and conversions.
6.2 Local Storage
Browser storage that can hold more data than cookies and is not automatically sent to servers.
6.3 JavaScript
Used for interactive features, form validation, dynamic content, and analytics.
6.4 Device Fingerprinting
May identify your device using browser/OS/screen/plugins/time zone for fraud prevention and security.
6.5 Log Files
Server logs may record IP, browser type, ISP, timestamps, referring/exit pages, and clicks for analytics and security.
7. How to Manage Cookies
7.1 Browser Settings
You can manage cookies in your browser settings.
Google Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data
Mozilla Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data
Microsoft Edge: Settings → Privacy, search, and services → Cookies and site permissions
Mobile browsers: Settings → Privacy/Security.
7.2 Cookie Setting Options
- Block all cookies: Many sites won’t work properly
- Block third-party cookies: Better privacy with basic functionality
- Delete cookies on exit: No saved logins/preferences
- Prompt for cookies: More control, but frequent prompts
7.3 Opt-Out Tools
- Google Analytics Opt-Out: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
- Google Ads Settings: https://adssettings.google.com
- Facebook Ad Preferences: https://www.facebook.com/settings/?tab=ads
- NAI: https://optout.networkadvertising.org/
- DAA: https://optout.aboutads.info/
- Your Online Choices (EU): https://www.youronlinechoices.com/
7.4 Do Not Track (DNT)
Some browsers send a “Do Not Track” signal.
Our response: We honor DNT signals and will not track you with third-party cookies when detected.
7.5 Mobile Device Settings
iOS: Settings → Safari → Privacy & Security → Prevent Cross-Site Tracking
Android: Chrome → Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies → Block third-party cookies
7.6 Consequences of Disabling Cookies
If you disable cookies, you may not be able to:
- Stay logged in
- Use shopping cart features
- Access personalized content
- Use certain interactive features
You will still be able to access basic public content.
8. Cookie Lifespan
Different cookies last different durations. Typical examples:
| Cookie Type | Typical Duration | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | Session or up to 1 year | Login, security, cart |
| Analytics | 1–2 years | Google Analytics (_ga) |
| Advertising | 1–2 years | Google Ads, Facebook Pixel |
| Social Media | 1–2 years | Facebook, Twitter/X |
| Preferences | Up to 1 year | Language, display settings |
9. Cookies and Personal Data
9.1 Personal Information in Cookies
Some cookies may contain:
- User ID/account identifier
- Hashed email (where applicable)
- IP address
- Login status
- Preferences linked to account
Cookies do not store:
- Passwords in plain text
- Credit card numbers
- Social Security numbers
9.2 Data Protection
Cookie data is protected under our Privacy Policy and applicable laws (GDPR, CCPA/CPRA, etc.).
9.3 Your Rights
You may have rights to access, delete, opt out, and withdraw consent regarding cookie data. See our Privacy Policy.
10. Cookies and Children
Our Services are not intended for children under 13 (or 16 in the EEA). We do not knowingly place cookies on children’s devices. If discovered, we will delete the information.
11. International Transfers
Cookie data may be transferred to and processed in the United States and other countries where our partners operate, using safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses and other lawful mechanisms.
12. Specific Jurisdictional Rights
12.1 EEA, UK, Switzerland (GDPR / ePrivacy)
- Consent required before placing non-essential cookies
- Cookie banner on first visit
- Ability to accept/reject and change preferences anytime
12.2 California (CCPA/CPRA)
Sharing cookie data with advertisers may constitute a “sale” under some definitions. Use the “Do Not Sell My Personal Information” link to opt out where applicable.
12.3 Other US States
Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah, and other states may provide similar cookie rights.
13. Cookie Consent Management
13.1 Cookie Banner
On first visit, a banner appears allowing you to accept or customize cookies. Essential cookies are used regardless.
13.2 Changing Preferences
You can change preferences anytime through cookie settings link (footer), browser settings, clearing cookies, or third-party opt-out tools.
13.3 Consent Records
We may record:
- Date/time of consent
- Categories accepted/rejected
- Method of consent
- IP address (fraud prevention/security)
14. Updates to This Cookie Policy
We may update this policy to reflect changes in practices, technology, or law. Material changes may require renewed consent.
15. Cookies and Security
We use security measures such as HTTPS, limited access controls, audits, and secure cookie flags including HttpOnly, Secure, and SameSite where appropriate.
16. Specific Cookie Information
16.1 First-Party Cookies
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| session_id | Maintains your session | Session | Essential |
| user_token | Keeps you logged in | 30 days | Essential |
| csrf_token | Security protection | Session | Essential |
| preferences | Stores settings | 1 year | Functional |
| cookie_consent | Records cookie choices | 1 year | Essential |
16.2 Third-Party Cookies
Google Analytics
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _gid | Distinguishes users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Throttles request rate | 1 minute |
Google Ads
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| IDE | Advertising tracking | 1 year |
| DSID | Identifies signed-in users | 2 weeks |
| 1P_JAR | Advertising/analytics | 1 month |
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| fr | Advertising targeting | 3 months |
| _fbp | Tracks site visitors | 3 months |
Note: Third parties may update cookies. Please review their policies for current information.
17. Frequently Asked Questions
17.1 If I disable all cookies?
You may not be able to log in, use cart features, or save preferences.
17.2 Are cookies dangerous?
Cookies don’t contain viruses, cannot access your hard drive, and only store text. Privacy concerns relate mainly to tracking.
17.3 Can I delete specific cookies?
Yes. Most browsers let you delete individual cookies and cookies from specific sites.
17.4 Do cookies slow my device?
Usually no. Clearing cookies occasionally can help if you have many.
17.5 Why do I see ads for things I looked at?
This is “retargeting” via advertising cookies. You can opt out (Section 7.3).
17.6 Will I still see ads if I block cookies?
Yes, but ads may be less relevant and frequency controls may not work.
17.7 How do I see cookies on my device?
Use your browser cookie settings (Chrome/Firefox/Safari/Edge) to view stored cookies.
17.8 Cookies vs cache?
Cookies store preference/tracking info; cache stores files to speed up loading.
18. Advertising and Affiliate Disclosures
18.1 Affiliate Cookies
Affiliate cookies may track referrals so we can earn commissions. This does not affect prices you pay. Typical duration: 30–90 days.
18.2 Advertising Cookies and Revenue
Advertising cookies help fund the site, measure campaigns, and improve ad relevance.
19. Compliance and Certifications
Our practices aim to comply with GDPR, ePrivacy, CCPA/CPRA, PECR, and other applicable privacy laws. We also follow common industry standards and platform requirements where applicable.
20. Contact Us About Cookies
20.1 Questions or Concerns
Email: jj@skrutinize.com
Mail: Early June Ventures, dba Skrutinize, P.O. Box 246, Fairfax, California, 94978
Website: www.skrutinize.com
20.2 Cookie-Related Requests
You may request details, opt out of non-essential cookies, request deletion of cookie data, update preferences, or lodge a complaint.
20.3 Data Protection Officer
DPO: Jan Jepsen
Email: jj@skrutinize.com
20.4 Response Time
- 5 business days for general questions
- Up to 30 days for rights requests (or as required by law)
21. Additional Resources
- All About Cookies: https://www.allaboutcookies.org
- AboutCookies.org: https://www.aboutcookies.org
- NAI: https://www.networkadvertising.org
- EFF: https://www.eff.org
- ICO (UK): https://ico.org.uk/for-the-public/online/cookies
22. Glossary of Terms
Definitions include cookie types (first-party, third-party, session, persistent), security flags (HttpOnly, Secure, SameSite), DNT, consent, GDPR, CCPA/CPRA, and tracking technologies.
Quick Links
- Manage Cookie Preferences (footer link)
- Privacy Policy (link-to-privacy-policy)
- Terms of Service (link-to-terms-of-service)
- Do Not Sell My Personal Information (footer link)
- Contact Us (mailto:jj@skrutinize.com)
This Cookie Policy was last reviewed and updated on January 2, 2026. We recommend checking this page periodically for updates.