Cookie Policy
The Archiver — operated by Broadhurst Digital Limited
Effective Date: 21 February 2026 · Last Updated: 28 February 2026
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how The Archiver ("Service"), operated by Broadhurst Digital Limited, uses cookies.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device by your web browser. They serve various purposes including authentication, security, and remembering your preferences.
3. Cookies We Use
The Archiver uses one essential cookie only:
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Type | Duration | Essential? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| session_token | Keeps you logged in after authentication. Contains a cryptographically random token that identifies your session. | First-party, httpOnly, secure, sameSite=lax | 30 days (or until logout) | Yes |
Technical Details
- The cookie is set only when you log in
- The cookie value is a 256-bit cryptographically random token
- The token is stored as a SHA-256 hash in our database (the actual token is never stored server-side)
- The cookie uses the
httpOnlyflag, meaning it cannot be read by JavaScript - The cookie uses the
secureflag, meaning it is only sent over HTTPS - The cookie uses
sameSite=lax, providing protection against cross-site request forgery (CSRF) - The cookie is deleted when you log out
4. Analytics
The Archiver uses Vercel Analytics and Vercel Speed Insights in privacy-first mode to understand page view patterns and monitor web performance (Core Web Vitals).
- No persistent tracking cookies are set
- No personal data is collected — page views are counted without identifying individual users
- No data is shared with third parties for advertising purposes
- Speed Insights collects anonymous performance metrics (page load times, layout shifts) to help us improve the Service
Because these tools operate without setting cookies or collecting personal data, they do not require consent under UK PECR.
5. What We Do NOT Use
The Archiver does not use:
- Advertising cookies — We do not serve advertisements or track users for advertising purposes
- Third-party tracking cookies — No third-party services set persistent tracking cookies through our application
- Social media cookies — We do not integrate social media tracking pixels or widgets
- Preference cookies — All user preferences are stored server-side in your account, not in cookies
6. Cookie Consent
Because The Archiver uses only a single strictly essential cookie required for the Service to function (authentication), we are not required to obtain cookie consent under the UK Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
Essential cookies are exempt from the consent requirement because the Service cannot function without them — you would not be able to log in without the session cookie.
7. Managing Cookies
You can control cookies through your browser settings:
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies
- Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies
- Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Cookies
- Edge: Settings > Cookies and Site Permissions
Note: If you block the session_token cookie, you will not be able to log into The Archiver.
8. Future Changes
If we add non-essential cookies in the future (e.g., analytics), we will:
- Update this Cookie Policy
- Implement a cookie consent mechanism
- Obtain your consent before setting non-essential cookies
- Allow you to manage your cookie preferences at any time
9. Contact
For questions about our use of cookies:
Broadhurst Digital Limited
18 St Nicholas Place, Derby, DE1 3GD
Phone: 01332 460 205