What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, phone, tablet) when you visit a website. They're stored by your browser and sent back to us on future visits so we can remember who you are and how you prefer to use the app.
Think of them like the "remember me" checkbox at login — except they work automatically in the background. They can't run code, carry viruses, or access your device's files. They're just tiny notes.
Fun fact:The term "cookie" comes from "magic cookie" — a computing concept for a packet of data that a program receives and sends back unchanged. Not nearly as delicious as it sounds.
How we use cookies
Smartass Facts uses cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
- To keep you signed in to your account across sessions
- To remember your game preferences, category selections, and UI settings
- To understand how you interact with the app so we can improve it
- To measure the effectiveness of our marketing campaigns
- To detect and prevent fraud and abuse
- To comply with legal obligations (e.g., GDPR consent records)
We do notsell your cookie data to third parties. We don't use cookies to build advertising profiles on you or track you across unrelated websites.
Types of cookies we use
We classify our cookies into four categories based on their function:
Third-party cookies
Some cookies on Smartass Facts are set by third-party services we use:
| Provider | Cookie name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Analytics | _ga, _gid | Tracks page views and session info for analytics | 2 years / 24 hrs |
| Firebase | __session | Session management and user authentication | Session |
| Meta Pixel | _fbp, _fbc | Ad conversion tracking (opt-in only) | 90 days |
| Stripe | __stripe_mid | Fraud prevention during payment flows | 1 year |
| Smartass Facts | sf_consent | Stores your cookie consent preferences | 1 year |
| Smartass Facts | sf_session | Keeps you logged in across page loads | 30 days |
Third-party providers have their own privacy policies. We encourage you to review them: Google, Meta, Stripe.
Your choices
You're in control. Here's how you can manage your cookie preferences:
- Cookie banner: When you first visit Smartass Facts, we show a consent banner. You can accept all, reject optional cookies, or customise your preferences.
- Cookie Settings link:You can update your preferences at any time by clicking "Cookie Settings" in the footer.
- Browser settings:All modern browsers let you block or delete cookies. Check your browser's help docs: Chrome, Firefox, Safari.
- Opt-out links: For Google Analytics, you can install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on.
Heads up:Blocking strictly necessary cookies will prevent the app from working correctly. You won't be able to log in, save progress, or play in authenticated mode.
Retention periods
Cookies are stored for varying lengths of time depending on their type:
- Session cookies — deleted automatically when you close your browser.
- Persistent cookies — remain on your device until they expire or you delete them. Most expire within 30 days to 1 year.
- Consent records— your consent preferences are stored for 12 months, after which we'll ask again.
You can delete all cookies at any time via your browser settings. This won't delete your account data — just local browser preferences.
Policy updates
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, legislation, or how we operate. When we make significant changes, we'll notify you via:
- A banner on the Smartass Facts website
- An in-app notification (if you have an account)
- An email to registered users (for material changes)
The "Last updated" date at the top of this page always reflects the most recent revision. Continued use of Smartass Facts after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.
Contact us
Got questions about cookies, data, or anything privacy-related? We're happy to help.
Talk to a real person 🐒
Our privacy team usually responds within 2 business days.
You can also reach us for GDPR / CCPA requests.