Cookie Policy
How we use cookies and tracking technologies
Last Updated: December 2024
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how BantuHive Ltd. ("we," "our," or "us") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our crowdfunding platform. This policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device when you visit our website. They help us provide you with a better experience by remembering your preferences, analyzing how you use our platform, and improving our services.
Types of Cookies We Use:
- Session Cookies: Temporary cookies that expire when you close your browser
- Persistent Cookies: Cookies that remain on your device for a set period
- First-Party Cookies: Set directly by BantuHive
- Third-Party Cookies: Set by our service providers and partners
3. How We Use Cookies
3.1 Essential Cookies
Purpose: These cookies are necessary for the platform to function properly.
Legal Basis: Legitimate interest (platform functionality)
Opt-out: Not possible - required for basic functionality
- User authentication and session management
- Security and fraud prevention
- Load balancing and system stability
- Form submission and data validation
- Shopping cart and transaction processing
3.2 Functional Cookies
Purpose: Enhance your user experience with personalized features.
Legal Basis: Legitimate interest (improved user experience)
Opt-out: Available through cookie preferences
- Language and currency preferences
- Dark/light mode settings
- Customized dashboard layouts
- Recently viewed projects
- Investment portfolio preferences
3.3 Analytics Cookies
Purpose: Help us understand how users interact with our platform.
Legal Basis: Legitimate interest (platform improvement)
Opt-out: Available through cookie preferences
- Page views and user journey tracking
- Feature usage analytics
- Performance monitoring
- Error tracking and debugging
- A/B testing for platform improvements
3.4 Marketing Cookies
Purpose: Deliver relevant advertising and measure campaign effectiveness.
Legal Basis: Consent
Opt-out: Available through cookie preferences
- Targeted advertising on social media platforms
- Retargeting campaigns
- Email marketing optimization
- Conversion tracking
- Interest-based advertising
4. Third-Party Cookies
We work with trusted third-party providers who may set cookies on our platform:
| Provider | Purpose | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | Website analytics and performance | Analytics |
| Facebook Pixel | Social media advertising | Marketing |
| Hotjar | User experience analytics | Analytics |
| Intercom | Customer support chat | Functional |
| Paystack | Payment processing | Essential |
5. Ghana-Specific Considerations
In compliance with Ghana's Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843) and emerging digital privacy regulations:
- We obtain clear consent for non-essential cookies
- We provide granular control over cookie preferences
- We respect Do Not Track signals where technically feasible
- We regularly review and update our cookie practices
- We maintain records of consent for regulatory compliance
6. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
6.1 BantuHive Cookie Settings
You can manage your cookie preferences at any time by:
- Clicking the "Cookie Preferences" link in our footer
- Accessing your account settings and selecting "Privacy"
- Using the cookie banner that appears on your first visit
6.2 Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to:
- View and delete cookies
- Block cookies from specific websites
- Block all cookies (may affect website functionality)
- Set preferences for third-party cookies
6.3 Browser-Specific Instructions
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data
- Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data
- Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data
- Edge: Settings > Site permissions > Cookies and site data
7. Mobile Apps
Our mobile applications may use similar tracking technologies:
- Device identifiers and mobile advertising IDs
- App usage analytics
- Push notification tokens
- Location data (with explicit permission)
- Biometric authentication data (stored locally)
You can manage these settings through your device's privacy settings or within the app preferences.
8. Data Retention
Cookie data is retained for varying periods:
- Session Cookies: Deleted when browser is closed
- Functional Cookies: 1-2 years
- Analytics Cookies: 2 years
- Marketing Cookies: 13 months (Google), varies by provider
- Security Cookies: 30 days
9. Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Withdraw consent for non-essential cookies at any time
- Access information about cookies stored on your device
- Request deletion of cookie data (subject to technical limitations)
- Lodge a complaint with Ghana's Data Protection Commission
- Receive clear information about our cookie practices
10. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology, law, or our practices. Material changes will be communicated through:
- Email notifications to registered users
- Prominent notices on our platform
- Updated cookie banners
- Push notifications in mobile apps
11. Contact Information
For questions about our cookie practices:
BantuHive Ltd.
Email: privacy@bantuhive.com
Cookie Questions: cookies@bantuhive.com
Phone: +233 (0) 302 123 456
Address: Digital Address: GA-594-7744, Takoradi, Ghana