1. What cookies and local storage are
Cookies are small text files that a website places on your device. Local storage is a similar browser feature that lets a site save small pieces of information on your device. Neither can run programs or access other files on your computer. We use the word “cookies” in this policy to cover both.
2. How we use them
We keep our use to a minimum. Essential items are always active because the Site needs them to remember your consent choice. Analytics and functional items are only set if you choose “Accept All” or enable them under “Preferences” in the cookie banner.
3. Cookies we use
| Name | Category | Purpose | Type | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| sbb_cookie_consent | Essential | Records your cookie choice so the banner does not reappear on every page | Local storage, first party | Until cleared or changed |
| sbb_session_check | Essential | Supports security features such as form spam protection | Session cookie, first party | Ends when browser closes |
| sbb_analytics_id | Analytics | Counts visits and page views in aggregate to help us improve our guides | Cookie, first party | Up to 13 months |
| sbb_analytics_session | Analytics | Groups page views into a single visit for aggregate reporting | Cookie, first party | 30 minutes |
| sbb_calc_prefs | Functional | Remembers the hardware you entered in the Will It Run? calculator | Local storage, first party | Until cleared or changed |
Analytics items are only created if an analytics service is active on the Site and you have consented. We do not use advertising or cross-site tracking cookies.
4. Changing your choice
You can change your choice at any time by clearing this Site's stored data in your browser; the cookie banner will then appear again on your next visit, allowing you to choose “Accept All”, “Reject Non-Essential” or set individual “Preferences”.
5. Opting out through your browser
All major browsers let you block or delete cookies and site data. Menu names change between versions, but the steps are generally:
- Google Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Third-party cookies or Site settings → view permissions and data stored across sites, then delete data for this Site.
- Mozilla Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data → Manage Data, then remove this Site.
- Apple Safari (macOS): Settings → Privacy → Manage Website Data, then remove this Site. On iPhone and iPad: Settings → Safari → Advanced → Website Data.
- Microsoft Edge: Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Manage and delete cookies and site data → See all cookies and site data.
Blocking essential storage may mean the cookie banner appears on every visit. You can also use your browser's private or incognito mode, which discards stored data when the window is closed.
6. Contact
Questions about this policy can be sent to [email protected] or to our Data Protection Officer at [email protected]. For more on how we handle personal data, see our Privacy Policy.