What Cookies Are
Cookies are small files stored by a browser. Local storage is a similar browser feature that stores preferences and small application data. Pencil Kloden uses these technologies to keep the site secure, remember choices, support account sessions, and improve the user experience.
Current Cookie and Storage Categories
Strictly necessary: PHP session cookies for admin/user login, security, account state, form operation, cookie consent records, and database-backed app behavior. These are required for the service and cannot be disabled through the banner.
Preferences: Theme choice, wishlist state, and display preferences stored in browser local storage. These improve usability and can be cleared in the browser.
Analytics: Not currently active in this codebase. If analytics tools are added, they should be activated only after consent where legally required.
Marketing: Not currently active in this codebase. If ads, pixels, or retargeting are added, users should be given clear opt-in or opt-out controls depending on region.
Regional Consent Standards
- EU/EEA and UK: Non-essential cookies generally require prior consent. Users must be able to reject optional cookies as easily as they accept them.
- California and several U.S. states: Users may have rights to opt out of sale, sharing, targeted advertising, or profiling where those activities occur.
- Ghana and other regions: Transparency, purpose limitation, security, and reasonable user choice are important. Optional tracking should be disclosed before use.
How Consent Works on This Website
The cookie banner stores a consent record in local storage under `pk_cookie_consent`. The current choices include necessary, preferences, analytics, and marketing. Necessary tools are always active. Optional categories are inactive unless accepted and later implemented by the business.
How to Change Choices
Users can clear browser cookies/local storage or use the cookie banner controls when shown. A future footer control can call `localStorage.removeItem('pk_cookie_consent')` and reload the page to show the banner again.
Third Parties
Opening WhatsApp transfers the message to WhatsApp/Meta. Embedded third-party tools, analytics, payment processors, or advertising tags should have their own privacy and cookie notices before being enabled.
Contact
Questions about cookies or consent can be sent to info@pencilkloden.com or through the contact options on the website.