1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They help us improve user experience, track platform usage, and enhance security.

Cookies may be session-based (deleted when you close your browser) or persistent (remain on your device until they expire or are manually removed).

2. Types of Cookies We Use

We use the following types of cookies on our platform:

2.1 Essential Cookies (Required)

• These cookies are necessary for the platform to function properly.
• They enable basic functions like page navigation, user authentication, and secure transactions.
• Without these cookies, the platform may not work correctly.

2.2 Analytics Cookies (Performance & Usage Tracking)

• These cookies help us analyze user behavior and interactions to improve our platform.
• We use third-party analytics tools (such as Google Analytics) to collect anonymous data on traffic, time spent on pages, and user actions.
• Disabling these cookies may limit our ability to improve the platform experience.

2.3 Functional Cookies (User Preferences)

• These cookies store user settings and preferences, such as selected language, theme, and login credentials (if chosen).
• They enhance usability by remembering choices you made previously.

2.4 Advertising Cookies (Personalized Ads & Retargeting)

• If applicable, these cookies help us and third-party partners show personalized advertisements based on your interests and browsing behavior.
• These cookies track ad performance and engagement to improve marketing efforts.
• You can opt out of targeted advertising by adjusting your cookie settings (see Section 4).

2.5 Third-Party Cookies (Embedded Content & External Services)

• Some competitions may allow the embedding of third-party content (e.g., YouTube videos, Instagram posts, or TikTok clips).
• These third-party services may place their own cookies on your device.
• We do not control or monitor third-party cookies, so you should review their respective privacy and cookie policies.

3. How We Use Cookies

We use cookies for the following purposes:

• To ensure smooth platform operation (e.g., login functionality, navigation).
• To analyze platform performance and improve user experience.
• To enhance security by detecting fraud, suspicious activity, and unauthorized access.
• To store user preferences and simplify future visits.
• To serve relevant ads and marketing content (if applicable).

We do not sell cookie data or share personally identifiable information with advertisers.

4. Managing & Disabling Cookies

You have control over how cookies are used on our platform.

4.1 Browser Settings

Most web browsers allow you to block, delete, or manage cookies in the settings menu.

• Google Chrome: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and other site data
• Mozilla Firefox: Preferences > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data
• Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Cookies and website data
• Microsoft Edge: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and site permissions

Disabling essential cookies may affect platform functionality, preventing you from logging in or using certain features.

4.2 Opting Out of Analytics & Advertising Cookies

You can opt out of tracking and personalized advertising through these services:

• Google Analytics Opt-Out: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
• Network Advertising Initiative (NAI): https://www.networkadvertising.org/choices/
• Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA): https://optout.aboutads.info/

5. Third-Party Services & External Cookies

Some competitions allow users to embed external links or third-party content.

• Competition Platform is not responsible for third-party cookies or tracking mechanisms on external sites.
• Clicking on links or interacting with third-party content may result in additional cookies being placed on your device by the external service provider.
• Users should review the cookie policies of third-party platforms before interacting with their content.

If you notice any suspicious or harmful third-party links on our platform, report them to marvin.kiefer@swisswebdev.ch.

6. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy periodically to reflect changes in technology, legal requirements, or platform updates.

• Significant changes will be communicated via email or platform notifications.
• We encourage users to review this policy regularly.
• Continued use of our platform after updates constitutes acceptance of the new Cookie Policy.

7. Contact Information

For questions or concerns about this Cookie Policy, contact us at:

📧 marvin.kiefer@swisswebdev.ch