Cookie Policy
Which cookies we use, why we use them and how to switch them off.
Cookies are small text files that a website stores on your device. Some are essential for a site to function; others help publishers understand their readers or track referrals. This page explains which ones On Dating Journal uses and how you stay in control.
It should be read alongside our privacy policy, which explains how we handle personal data more broadly.
The cookies we use
We group our cookies into three categories.
Strictly necessary cookies
These make the site work. They remember your cookie choices, keep the site secure, balance traffic across our servers and support features you ask for, such as submitting a form. Under UK rules, consent is not needed for cookies that are strictly necessary to provide a service you have requested, as the Information Commissioner’s Office explains in its guidance on cookies and similar technologies. These cookies are always on.
Analytics cookies
These help us understand how readers use On Dating Journal: which articles are read, how people find us, and which devices and browsers they use. We use this information to improve the site and our journalism. Analytics cookies are set only if you agree to them.
Affiliate tracking cookies
Some “Visit site” links on On Dating Journal are affiliate links, as our affiliate disclosure explains. When you click one, the company you visit, or the affiliate network it works with, may set a cookie on your device recording that you arrived from On Dating Journal. If you then sign up or subscribe, the cookie lets the company credit us with a commission. These cookies are set by third parties under their own policies. Where we control whether tracking takes place, we ask for your consent first.
We do not use cookies to show you targeted advertising on On Dating Journal.
How we ask for consent
When you first visit On Dating Journal, a banner asks whether you accept analytics and affiliate tracking cookies. Nothing other than strictly necessary cookies is set until you make a choice, and continuing to browse does not count as consent. Rejecting cookies is as easy as accepting them, and the site works either way.
Changing your cookie preferences
You can change your mind at any time. Use the Cookie settings link in the footer of every page to reopen the preferences panel, then switch categories on or off. Your new choice applies from that point.
If you withdraw consent, cookies already on your device may remain until they expire or you delete them through your browser.
Controlling cookies in your browser
Every major browser lets you view, block and delete cookies, block third-party cookies only, or clear cookies whenever you close the browser. Private or incognito browsing modes also avoid storing cookies once the session ends. The ICO’s advice for the public on controlling cookies links to the help pages for the most common browsers.
Blocking all cookies may stop parts of On Dating Journal, and other sites, from working properly.
Changes and questions
We may update this policy when we change the tools we use or when the rules change. The date at the top shows the latest revision. For any question about cookies, email [CONTACT EMAIL].