1. Introduction

This Cookie Policy explains how GiftRise.org uses cookies and similar technologies. We are committed to transparency and minimal data collection, consistent with our educational mission.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer or mobile device when you visit a website. They help websites remember your preferences and improve user experience.

Types of cookies include:

• Session Cookies: Temporary cookies that expire when you close your browser
• Persistent Cookies: Remain on your device for a set period or until manually deleted
• First-Party Cookies: Set by the website you're visiting
• Third-Party Cookies: Set by external services (we do not use these)

3. Cookies We Use

GiftRise.org uses minimal cookies, and only for essential website functionality:

Essential Cookies (Strictly Necessary)

These cookies are required for the basic operation of our website:

• Session Management: Helps maintain your browsing session
• Security: Prevents cross-site request forgery and other security threats
• Language Preference: Remembers your preferred language (if applicable)

Purpose: Enable core website functionality
Duration: Session (deleted when browser closes)
Can you disable them? Disabling these may prevent the website from functioning properly

4. Cookies We DO NOT Use

GiftRise.org does NOT use:

• Analytics Cookies: We do not track user behavior, page views, or traffic sources
• Advertising Cookies: We do not serve advertisements or use ad networks
• Social Media Cookies: We have no social media plugins or sharing buttons
• Third-Party Tracking: No external services track users on our website
• Personalization Cookies: We do not customize content based on user profiles

5. Local Storage and Similar Technologies

In addition to cookies, websites can use other browser storage mechanisms:

• Local Storage: We may use minimal local storage for basic website functionality (e.g., remembering mobile menu state)
• Session Storage: Used only for temporary data during your browsing session

We do NOT use these technologies to:

• Store personal information
• Track user behavior across sessions
• Collect sensitive data

6. How We Do NOT Use Cookies

Important: GiftRise.org cookies are never used to:

• Collect personal identification information
• Track your browsing across other websites
• Store gift card numbers or financial data
• Build user profiles or behavioral patterns
• Share data with third parties or advertisers
• Target advertising or marketing

7. Cookie Control and Management

You have several options to control cookies:

Browser Settings

Most browsers allow you to:

• View what cookies are stored
• Delete cookies individually or all at once
• Block cookies from specific websites
• Block all third-party cookies
• Set cookies to be deleted when you close your browser

Browser-Specific Instructions

• Chrome: Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies and other site data
• Firefox: Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
• Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data
• Edge: Settings → Privacy, search, and services → Cookies and site permissions

Impact of Disabling Cookies

If you disable cookies on GiftRise.org:

• The website will still function normally for reading educational content
• Some interactive features may not work as expected
• You may need to reset preferences on each visit

8. Third-Party Services

GiftRise.org does not use third-party services that would place cookies on your device, including:

• Google Analytics or other analytics platforms
• Social media widgets or plugins
• Advertising networks
• External commenting systems
• Chat or support widgets from third parties

9. Children's Privacy

GiftRise.org does not knowingly use cookies to collect information from children under 13. Our minimal cookie usage applies to all users equally, regardless of age.

10. Changes to This Cookie Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology or legal requirements. The "Last Updated" date at the top indicates when this policy was last revised. Continued use of the website after changes constitutes acceptance.

11. Do Not Track (DNT) Signals

Some browsers offer a "Do Not Track" (DNT) setting. Since GiftRise.org does not track users or use analytics cookies, DNT signals do not change how our website operates. We respect user privacy by default.

12. International Users

GiftRise.org's minimal cookie usage complies with international privacy regulations, including:

• EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
• Canadian Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)

Our essential cookies qualify as strictly necessary and do not require explicit consent under most regulations.

13. Contact Us About Cookies

Questions about our cookie usage? Contact us:

GiftRise.org LLC
341 Financial Plaza, Suite 433
New York, NY 10003
United States
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +1 (555) 443-1553