Lighthouse (“we,” “us,” or “our”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance the user experience, improve platform functionality, and ensure security. Cookies help us understand how users interact with Lighthouse, allowing us to optimize performance, personalize content, and maintain platform integrity.

This Cookie Policy explains:

• What cookies are and how they function within the Lighthouse platform.
• What types of cookies we use and their purpose.
• How users can manage or disable cookies through browser settings and platform controls.
• How Lighthouse complies with privacy laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) for EU users and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) for California residents.

By using Lighthouse, users consent to the use of cookies and tracking technologies as described in this policy. Users can adjust their cookie preferences through browser settings or in-app controls to limit non-essential tracking while ensuring uninterrupted platform functionality.

Cookies are small text files that are stored on a user’s device when visiting a website or using an application. They help platforms remember user preferences, enhance security, and enable personalized experiences. Cookies can be temporary (session cookies) or persistent (stored for a defined period on the user’s device).

Lighthouse also uses similar tracking technologies such as:

• Pixels. Small graphic images that track interactions, helping us analyze engagement patterns
• Scripts. Code snippets that run in the background to improve platform functionality.
• Local Storage. A browser-based technology that stores data to enhance user experience without additional tracking.

These tracking technologies do not collect personally identifiable information beyond what is necessary for authentication, analytics, and platform security.

They allow Lighthouse to:

• Maintain secure user authentication and session continuity.
• Analyze app performance and engagement trends.
• Improve matchmaking accuracy and recommendation algorithms.

Lighthouse does not use cookies for third-party advertising, targeted marketing, or behavioral tracking beyond the platform.

Lighthouse uses different types of cookies to ensure smooth platform functionality, improve security, and enhance the user experience. These cookies are categorized based on their purpose and functionality.

3.1 Essential Cookies (Always Active)

Essential cookies are required for Lighthouse to function properly and cannot be disabled. These cookies ensure secure access, maintain user sessions, and protect against unauthorized activity.

Essential cookies include:

• Session Cookies. Maintain active user sessions, allowing users to navigate seamlessly without needing to log in repeatedly.
• Authentication Cookies. Verify user identity, ensuring that only authorized users can access their accounts securely.
• Security Cookies. Help protect user accounts from unauthorized access, fraud attempts, and cyber threats by enforcing security protocols.

Since these cookies are crucial for authentication, security, and core platform functionality, they cannot be turned off without disrupting access to Lighthouse.

3.2 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies help Lighthouse improve usability by storing user preferences and customization settings. These cookies enhance accessibility and personalization.

• Theme Cookies. Store user preferences related to app appearance, dark/light mode settings, font adjustments, and accessibility configurations.

These cookies do not collect personal data and are used solely to enhance user experience. Users can modify their theme and accessibility settings through Lighthouse’s in-app controls.

3.3 Analytics Cookies

Lighthouse uses Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager to collect anonymous usage data for performance tracking, optimization, and feature improvements.

Analytics cookies help Lighthouse:

• Measure user engagement and interactions across different app features.
• Identify performance issues and optimize platform functionality by analyzing usage patterns.
• Improve matchmaking algorithms based on aggregated, non-identifiable user behavior to refine connection recommendations.

Analytics cookies help Lighthouse understand platform trends and enhance user experience without collecting personally identifiable information.

Lighthouse integrates third-party cookies for analytics and performance tracking but does not use cookies for advertising, behavioral targeting, or third-party marketing purposes.

Third-Party Services That May Store Cookies

• Google Analytics. Collects anonymized user interaction data to improve platform performance and enhance Lighthouse’s recommendation algorithms.
• Google Tag Manager. Manages tracking for internal insights and analytics to refine feature improvements and engagement analysis.

Lighthouse ensures that all third-party cookies are used strictly for analytics and operational insights, not for advertising or marketing.

No Use of Third-Party Advertising Cookies

Lighthouse does not:

• Use third-party tracking for targeted advertising
• Sell or share user data with advertisers, affiliates, or external marketing agencies.

Users have control over non-essential cookies, including analytics tracking, and can modify their settings as outlined in the next section on user control and opt-out options.

Lighthouse provides users with control over non-essential cookies and tracking technologies, allowing them to manage their preferences while ensuring uninterrupted access to core platform features.

Users can opt out of certain types of tracking through the following methods:

• Browser Settings. Users can disable or block non-essential cookies by adjusting their browser settings. Most modern browsers allow users to reject cookies or delete stored cookie data at any time.
• Apple Privacy Settings. Apple users can utilize Apple’s built-in privacy controls, such as App Tracking Transparency (ATT), which allows them to block tracking for analytics and tag managers.
• In-App Cookie Preferences. Lighthouse offers settings that allow users to modify cookie preferences, enabling them to limit tracking for analytics and performance monitoring while still accessing essential platform features.
• Essential Cookies Cannot Be Disabled. Session cookies, authentication cookies, and security cookies are required for Lighthouse’s core functionality, including login security, fraud prevention, and user authentication. These cookies cannot be disabled, as they are necessary for the platform to function properly.

Users who choose to disable non-essential cookies should be aware that certain features, such as matchmaking personalization and engagement tracking, may be affected.

Lighthouse reserves the right to modify or update this Cookie Policy at any time to reflect:

• Regulatory updates, such as changes in GDPR, CCPA, or other privacy laws.
• Technological advancements, including updates to analytics tools or tracking mechanisms.
• Changes in service providers, such as the introduction of new analytics platforms or security enhancements.

If there are material changes that affect how cookies are used or impact user privacy, Lighthouse will notify users via email, in-app notifications, or announcements.

Continued use of Lighthouse after a Cookie Policy update constitutes acceptance of the revised terms. Users are encouraged to review this policy periodically to stay informed about their cookie preferences and privacy options.