Cookie Documentation

Last Updated: 2024 | Version 1.0.2

1.0 Introduction

West Shed Journal ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to transparency regarding the collection and processing of data on our digital platforms. This Cookie Documentation explains how we use cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website dedicated to Canadian credit rewards and financial optimization.

Disclaimer: This document serves as a technical and legal disclosure. It is not intended as legal advice. For specific inquiries regarding your rights under Canadian privacy law, please consult with a qualified legal professional.

2.0 Legal Framework (PIPEDA & CASL)

As an entity operating out of Toronto, Ontario, West Shed Journal complies with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Furthermore, our practices align with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) guidelines regarding online behavioral advertising.

Under Canadian law, "meaningful consent" is the cornerstone of data collection. While some cookies are essential for site functionality, we ensure that for tracking and marketing cookies, users are informed and provided with clear mechanisms to opt-out, adhering to Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) where applicable to electronic communications.

3.0 What are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) by your web browser. They allow websites to recognize your device and store information about your preferences or past actions. We use both "session cookies" (which expire once you close your browser) and "persistent cookies" (which stay on your device for a set period or until you delete them).

4.0 Cookie Categories

We categorize our cookies based on their specific utility within our financial data ecosystem:

Category	Purpose	Lifespan
Strictly Necessary	Essential for navigating the site and using features like secure reward calculators.	Session
Analytical/Performance	Help us understand how visitors interact with our Toronto-specific card guides.	2 years
Functionality	Remember choices you make (like currency or language) to provide a personalized experience.	1 year
Targeting/Marketing	Used to deliver relevant advertisements regarding Canadian credit products.	Variable

5.0 Third-Party Analytics

West Shed Journal utilizes third-party services such as Google Analytics to measure the efficacy of our cashback optimization protocols. These providers may set their own cookies on your browser. We do not control these third-party cookies.

Google Analytics: Used for tracking site traffic and user behavior patterns. Data is generally anonymized.
Financial Partner Pixels: Some of our Canadian banking partners may use pixels to track conversions from our referral links.

6.0 Managing Preferences

You have the right to decide whether to accept or reject cookies. You can exercise your cookie preferences by clicking the button below or by adjusting your browser settings.

Most web browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge) allow you to block or delete cookies through their "Privacy" or "Security" settings. Note that disabling strictly necessary cookies may impact the functionality of our card comparison tools.

7.0 Data Retention

Information collected via cookies is retained only as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this documentation. Analytical data is typically purged after 26 months, while preference cookies are stored for up to 12 months from your last visit to West Shed Journal.

8.0 Contact Information

If you have questions about our use of cookies or our privacy practices in Ontario, please contact our Data Protection Officer:

West Shed Journal

Address: 150 King St W, Toronto, ON M5H 1J9

Email:

Phone: +1 (548) 988-6024