Cookie Policy
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device by your web browser. We also use local storage, a similar browser technology. This policy covers both.
2. Cookies We Use
| Name | Type | Purpose | Duration | Essential? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
msp_session |
Cookie | Maintains your login session across page loads. Contains a random session ID only — no personal data is stored in the cookie itself. | 30 days (7 days idle) | Yes |
3. Local Storage We Use
| Key | Purpose | Duration | Essential? |
|---|---|---|---|
msp-theme |
Stores your light/dark mode preference so it persists across page loads. | Until you clear browser data | No (preference) |
mp-seen-howto |
Records that you have dismissed the "How to Play" overlay so it does not reappear. | Until you clear browser data | No (preference) |
4. Third-Party Cookies
| Service | Purpose | Cookies set | When active |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | Anonymous site usage analytics (page views, session duration, device type) | _ga, _ga_* |
Only when Google Analytics is enabled by the site administrator. May not be active. |
| Google reCAPTCHA v3 | Spam prevention on forms (subscribe, contact, registration) | Various Google cookies | When reCAPTCHA is enabled. Loaded on pages with protected forms. |
We do not use any advertising cookies or third-party tracking for ad targeting.
5. How to Control Cookies
You can control cookies through your browser settings:
- Block all cookies: The site will still work for anonymous gameplay, but you will not be able to log in (the session cookie is required for authentication).
- Block third-party cookies: Google Analytics and reCAPTCHA cookies will be blocked. The site will function normally; form submissions may be affected by reCAPTCHA blocking.
- Clear local storage: Your theme preference and how-to-play dismissal will reset.
Browser-specific instructions:
6. Changes to This Policy
We will update this policy if we add new cookies or change how existing ones are used. Check the "Last updated" date above.
7. Contact
For questions about our use of cookies, please contact us or email privacy@matchstickspuzzle.com.