Cookie Policy

This Cookie Policy explains how Buka ("we", "us", or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our marketplace platform ("Platform"). This policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They help websites remember information about your visit, such as your preferred language and other settings, which can make your next visit easier and the site more useful to you.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

Essential Cookies

These cookies are necessary for the Platform to function properly and cannot be disabled:

• Authentication cookies: Keep you logged in during your session
• Security cookies: Protect against cross-site request forgery and other security threats
• Load balancing cookies: Ensure optimal performance by distributing traffic
• Shopping cart cookies: Remember items you've added to your cart

Performance and Analytics Cookies

These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our Platform:

• Google Analytics: Tracks page views, user behavior, and site performance
• Error tracking: Helps us identify and fix technical issues
• Performance monitoring: Measures page load times and site speed

Functionality Cookies

These cookies enhance your experience by remembering your preferences:

• Language preferences: Remember your preferred language setting
• Location settings: Remember your preferred location for shipping
• Display preferences: Remember your preferred view settings (grid/list view)
• Search history: Remember recent searches to improve suggestions

Marketing and Advertising Cookies

These cookies are used to deliver relevant advertisements (with your consent):

• Retargeting cookies: Show you relevant ads on other websites
• Social media cookies: Enable sharing on social platforms
• Campaign tracking: Measure the effectiveness of our marketing campaigns

3. Third-Party Cookies

We work with trusted third-party services that may set their own cookies:

• Payment processors (Paystack): Secure payment processing
• Shipping providers: Tracking and delivery services
• Analytics services: Google Analytics for site performance
• Customer support: Live chat and help desk services
• Social media platforms: Social sharing and login features

4. Cookie Duration

Cookies have different lifespans:

• Session cookies: Deleted when you close your browser
• Persistent cookies: Remain on your device for a set period or until manually deleted
• Authentication cookies: Typically expire after 30 days of inactivity
• Preference cookies: Usually last for 1 year
• Analytics cookies: Typically expire after 2 years

5. Managing Your Cookie Preferences

Browser Settings

You can control cookies through your browser settings:

• Block all cookies: Prevent all cookies from being set
• Block third-party cookies: Allow only first-party cookies
• Delete existing cookies: Remove cookies already stored on your device
• Receive notifications: Get alerts when cookies are being set

Platform Cookie Settings

We provide cookie preference controls within our Platform where you can:

• Accept or reject non-essential cookies
• Manage specific cookie categories
• Update your preferences at any time
• View detailed information about each cookie type

6. Impact of Disabling Cookies

Disabling certain cookies may affect your experience:

• Essential cookies: The Platform may not function properly
• Functionality cookies: You may need to re-enter preferences each visit
• Analytics cookies: We cannot improve the Platform based on usage data
• Marketing cookies: You may see less relevant advertisements

7. Local Storage and Similar Technologies

In addition to cookies, we may use other storage technologies:

• Local Storage: Stores data locally in your browser
• Session Storage: Temporary storage that expires when you close the browser
• Web Beacons: Small transparent images that track email opens and clicks
• Fingerprinting: Collecting device information for security purposes

8. Mobile App Tracking

If you use our mobile app, we may collect similar information through:

• Device identifiers (IDFA on iOS, Advertising ID on Android)
• App usage analytics
• Push notification tokens
• Location data (with your permission)

9. International Data Transfers

Some of our third-party service providers may transfer cookie data outside South Africa. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

10. Children's Privacy

Our Platform is not intended for users under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect cookie data from children under 18. Parents and guardians should monitor their children's internet usage and cookie settings.

11. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, technology, or legal requirements. Material changes will be communicated via the Platform or email. Your continued use of the Platform constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

12. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, please contact us:

• Email: privacy@buka.club
• Phone: +27 11 123 4567
• Address: 123 Book Street, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

13. Useful Resources

For more information about cookies and how to manage them:

• About Cookies
• All About Cookies
• ICO Cookie Guidance