1. Introduction

This Cookie Policy explains how Hotdrop, operated by Ampium LLC ("we," "us," or "our"), uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our platform.

By using Hotdrop, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this policy. If you do not agree, please adjust your browser settings or discontinue use of the Service.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet) when you visit a website. Cookies allow the website to recognize your device and remember information about your visit.

Similar technologies include:

• Local Storage: Data stored in your browser (e.g., HTML5 localStorage)
• Session Storage: Temporary data stored for the duration of your session
• Pixels and Beacons: Small invisible images used for tracking (we do not use these for advertising)

3. How We Use Cookies

3.1 Essential Cookies

Purpose: These cookies are strictly necessary for the Service to function and cannot be disabled.

Examples:

• Authentication: Firebase Authentication uses cookies to maintain your logged-in session
• Security: Session tokens and CSRF protection
• Load Balancing: Routing traffic to the appropriate server

Data Stored: Session identifiers, authentication tokens

Duration: Session cookies (deleted when you close your browser) or persistent cookies (up to 1 year)

Legal Basis: These cookies are necessary for the performance of our contract with you.

3.2 Analytics Cookies

Purpose: To understand how users interact with the Service and improve user experience.

Services Used:

• Google Analytics: Tracks page views, feature usage, session duration, and user demographics
• Firebase Analytics (if applicable): Tracks app events and user flows

Data Collected:

• Pages visited and features used
• Time spent on the Service
• Approximate geographic location (country/city level)
• Browser type, device type, screen resolution
• Referral source (how you arrived at Hotdrop)

Data Sharing: Analytics data is shared with Google LLC. We do not use this data for advertising purposes.

Duration: Up to 2 years

Legal Basis: Legitimate interest in improving our Service. You may opt out (see Section 5).

3.3 Functional Cookies

Purpose: To remember your preferences and enhance your experience.

Examples:

• User Preferences: Remembering your selected tone, audience, or length settings
• UI State: Remembering expanded/collapsed sidebar menus
• Onboarding Progress: Tracking which steps you've completed

Duration: Varies (typically 1 month to 1 year)

Legal Basis: Legitimate interest in providing a personalized user experience.

4. Cookies We Do NOT Use

Hotdrop does not use:

• Advertising Cookies: We do not serve ads or track you for advertising purposes
• Third-Party Advertising Trackers: We do not allow ad networks to place cookies on our platform
• Social Media Tracking Pixels: We do not use Facebook Pixel, Twitter/X tags, or similar tracking for advertising
• Cross-Site Tracking: We do not track your activity across other websites

5. Your Cookie Choices

5.1 Browser Settings

Most browsers allow you to:

• View and delete cookies
• Block all cookies
• Block third-party cookies only
• Receive a warning before a cookie is stored

How to Manage Cookies in Common Browsers:

• Chrome: Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies and Other Site Data
• Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
• Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data
• Edge: Settings → Cookies and Site Permissions

Important: Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from logging in and using the Service.

5.2 Opt-Out of Analytics

To opt out of Google Analytics, you can:

• Manage your cookie preferences using our consent banner
• Install the Google Analytics Opt-Out Browser Add-On
• Enable "Do Not Track" in your browser (we honor DNT signals where feasible)

5.3 Account Settings

You can control certain data collection preferences in your account settings (Settings → Privacy & Data).

6. Third-Party Cookies

The Service may use third-party services that set their own cookies:

We do not control third-party cookies. Please review their privacy policies for more information.

7. Updates to This Cookie Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. When we make changes, the "Last Updated" date will be revised, and material changes will be communicated via email or in-app notification.

Your continued use of the Service after changes take effect constitutes acceptance of the updated Cookie Policy.

8. Contact Us

If you have questions about our use of cookies, please contact us:

Email: privacy@hotdrop.ai
Mail: Ampium LLC, Attn: Privacy Team, 1085 Herkness Drive, Meadowbrook, PA 19046