2. How we use cookies
We use cookies and similar technologies only as needed to:
- run the Service securely (sign-in, session integrity, abuse prevention);
- remember your cookie preferences;
- where permitted, measure aggregate usage (for example anonymised or hashed view and download activity) to improve the product.
We do not use advertising cookies or sell cookie data. We do not load third-party advertising networks.
3. Essential cookies
Essential cookies are required for the Service to function and cannot be switched off in our controls while you use Spike. They include:
- Authentication and session cookies needed to keep you signed in and protect your account.
- Security and abuse-prevention signals.
- Storage of your cookie consent choice.
- Load-balancing or continuity cookies required for basic delivery, where used.
Legal basis: these are necessary for the Service you request (and/or our legitimate interests in securing the Service). Consent is not required for strictly necessary cookies under UK PECR.
4. Optional analytics
With your permission where required, we may use first-party analytics cookies or similar storage, and Google Analytics (gtag.js), to understand how features and share pages are used (for example counts of views or downloads, coarse geography such as country, and technical environment). We design these metrics to be privacy-respecting and aggregate where practical. Google Analytics is only activated after you accept optional analytics.
Legal basis: consent where required by law. You can withdraw consent at any time via Cookie settings; this does not affect the lawfulness of prior processing.
5. Duration
Session cookies expire when you close your browser (or shortly after). Persistent cookies and local storage entries remain until they expire, you clear them, or you change your consent settings. Exact lifetimes may vary by feature and security needs.
6. Managing your choices
You can change optional analytics preferences at any time using the "Cookie settings" link in the footer, or open from this page.
You can also clear cookies and site data in your browser settings. Essential cookies will be set again when you return, because the Service cannot operate without them. Blocking all cookies may break sign-in and other core features.
7. Third parties
Payment, authentication, or other embedded flows provided by independent companies may set their own cookies subject to their policies when you use those flows. We do not control those third-party cookies.
8. Changes
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. The “Last updated” date will change when we do. Continued use after changes means you acknowledge the updated Policy.
9. Contact
Questions about cookies: hello@spike.zip. See also our Privacy Policy.