COOKIE POLICY
This Cookie Policy explains how virtualhistorian.ca (“we,” “us,” or “our”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website. This policy provides you with clear and comprehensive information about the cookies we use and the purposes for which we use them. By continuing to use virtualhistorian.ca, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this policy.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, provide a better user experience, and give website owners valuable information about how their site is being used. Cookies can be “persistent” (remaining on your device until deleted) or “session” cookies (deleted when you close your browser).
2. Types of Cookies We Use
virtualhistorian.ca uses the following categories of cookies:
| Essential | Core site functionality, security, session management | Session to 1 year | Yes |
| Performance | Analytics, page load times, error tracking | Up to 26 months | Optional |
| Functional | Preferences, language, personalization | Up to 2 years | Optional |
| Targeting | Advertising, affiliate tracking, retargeting | Up to 2 years | Optional |
3. Detailed Cookie List
Below is a comprehensive list of cookies used on virtualhistorian.ca:
3.1 Essential Cookies
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
| session_id | virtualhistorian.ca | Maintains user session state | Session |
| csrf_token | virtualhistorian.ca | Security protection against CSRF attacks | Session |
| cookie_consent | virtualhistorian.ca | Stores your cookie preferences | 1 year |
| age_verified | virtualhistorian.ca | Records age verification acceptance | 30 days |
3.2 Performance/Analytics Cookies
| _ga | Google Analytics | Distinguishes unique users | 2 years |
| _ga_* | Google Analytics | Maintains session state | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics | Stores visitor ID for 24 hours | 24 hours |
| _hjSessionUser_* | Hotjar | User behavior analytics | 1 year |
| _hjSession_* | Hotjar | Current session data | 30 minutes |
3.3 Targeting/Advertising Cookies
| affiliate_id | virtualhistorian.ca | Tracks affiliate referrals | 30 days |
| _fbp | Meta (Facebook) | Ad delivery and measurement | 3 months |
| _gcl_au | Google Ads | Conversion tracking | 90 days |
4. How to Manage Cookies
You have several options for managing cookies on virtualhistorian.ca:
4.1 Our Cookie Preference Center
When you first visit virtualhistorian.ca, you will see a cookie consent banner that allows you to accept or decline non-essential cookies. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking the “Cookie Settings” link in the footer of our website.
4.2 Browser Settings
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. Here’s how to manage cookies in popular browsers:
| Google Chrome | Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies and other site data |
| Mozilla Firefox | Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data |
| Safari | Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data |
| Microsoft Edge | Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Cookies and site data |
4.3 Opt-Out Tools
You can opt out of specific tracking services using these tools:
- Google Analytics: Install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on (tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout)
- Digital Advertising Alliance: youradchoices.ca for Canadian opt-out options
- Network Advertising Initiative: optout.networkadvertising.org
5. Similar Technologies
In addition to cookies, virtualhistorian.ca may use other tracking technologies:
| Web Beacons | Small graphic images (pixel tags) embedded in web pages or emails to track views and clicks |
| Local Storage | Browser storage that persists data locally, similar to cookies but with greater capacity |
| Session Storage | Temporary storage that is cleared when you close your browser tab or window |
| Fingerprinting | Note: virtualhistorian.ca does NOT use device fingerprinting techniques |
6. Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies on virtualhistorian.ca are placed by third parties, such as analytics providers and advertising networks. These third parties have their own privacy policies governing the use of their cookies. We recommend reviewing the privacy policies of these third parties for more information about their data practices.
7. Updates to This Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, legislation, or our data practices. When we make changes, we will update the “Last Updated” date at the top of this page. We encourage you to review this Cookie Policy periodically to stay informed about how virtualhistorian.ca uses cookies.
8. Your Consent
By continuing to use virtualhistorian.ca after being presented with our cookie notice, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this policy. You can withdraw your consent at any time by changing your cookie preferences or adjusting your browser settings.
9. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, please contact us:
Website: virtualhistorian.ca