Cookie Policy

This policy explains the cookies and similar technologies we use on the DriveBuddy website and web app, what they're for, and how you can control them. It sits alongside our Privacy Policy, which explains what we do with personal information more generally.

"Cookies" here also covers local storage, session storage and similar technologies that store or read information on your device.

The DriveBuddy mobile app doesn't use cookies, but it does store information on your device to keep you signed in and to remember your settings. The same principles apply.

We use cookies to keep you signed in, to keep payments secure, and to understand how the app is used so we can improve it. We don't use advertising cookies, we don't track you across other companies' websites, and we don't share your data with advertisers.

Strictly necessary

These make the service work. Without them you can't sign in or pay, so they can't be switched off.

Stripe sets cookies on pages with payment functionality as part of its fraud prevention. That's a security function, not advertising.

Analytics

These help us understand how DriveBuddy is used — which features people reach, where they get stuck, what breaks.

Our analytics run in the European Union and are first-party only. We use them to improve DriveBuddy itself. We don't use them to track you across other websites or apps, and we don't build advertising profiles. You can turn analytics off at any time using the controls in Section 4.

For learners under 18, we collect less analytics data as standard. Our Privacy Policy, Section 9, explains what else is different.

Preferences

What we don't use

No advertising cookies. No third-party tracking pixels. No social media trackers. No crash reporting SDKs. If we add anything in these categories, we'll update this policy and ask for your consent where the law requires it, before it goes live.

Our cookie banner lets you accept or reject non-essential cookies when you first visit. You can change your mind at any time using the cookie settings link in the footer. Strictly necessary cookies can't be turned off, because the service doesn't work without them.

Your browser also lets you block or delete cookies. Every major browser has this in its settings. Blocking all cookies will stop you signing in to DriveBuddy, and blocking Stripe's cookies may stop payments working.

We'll update this policy when our use of cookies changes. Every version has a number and a date.

Questions about this policy: info@drivebuddy.uk.

To complain about how we've handled your data, email the same address with "Data protection complaint" in the subject line. We'll acknowledge within 30 days. You can also complain to the Information Commissioner's Office at ico.org.uk.