Cookie and Data Privacy Policies

This Cookie Policy explains how TechPodge ("we", "us", "our") uses cookies and similar technologies on our website TechPodge.uk (“our site”) in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).

Cookie Policy:

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer or device when you visit a website. They help us understand how you use our site and enhance your browsing experience.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

We use the following types of cookies:

a) Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are essential to operate our website and enable core functionality, such as security, network management, and accessibility. They do not require your consent.

b) Performance and Analytics Cookies

These help us understand how visitors use our website by collecting information anonymously. We use this data to improve functionality and performance.

c) Functionality Cookies

These allow the website to remember choices you make (such as your name, language, or region) and provide enhanced, personalised features.

d) Targeting/Advertising Cookies

These cookies help to show you relevant ads on other websites. We may also use them to limit the number of times you see an advertisement.

We use Google Analytics to analyse users visits and use of our website. Google Analytics generates statistical and other information by means of cookies, which are stored on users’ computers. The information generated is used to create reports about how our website is used and what pages are visited. Google stores this information. See Google’s privacy policy here: https://www.google.com/privacypolicy.html

3. Third-Party Cookies

Some cookies on our site are set by third-party services we use to enhance your experience. These third parties may collect data directly through their cookies. We recommend reviewing their privacy and cookie policies.

4. Managing and Withdrawing Consent

When you first visit our site, you will see a cookie banner asking for your consent to use non-essential cookies.

You can manage your cookie preferences at any time by:

  • Clicking the “Cookie Settings” link in our website footer

  • Adjusting settings through your browser

Note: Disabling all cookies may affect the functionality of some features on our site.

5. Retention Period

We retain cookies for the following durations:

  • Session Cookies: Deleted when you close your browser

  • Persistent Cookies: Stored for a period defined by the provider (typically 30 days – 2 years)

6. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time.

7. Your Acceptance of This Policy

By continuing to use our website, you signify that you accept the terms of this Cookie Policy and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with any aspect of our policies, please discontinue use of our website and adjust your browser settings to disable cookies.

Data Privacy Policy:

1. What Data We Collect

We may collect and process the following personal data:

  • Name, email address, and contact details

  • User login data and course progress

  • IP address and browser information

  • Payment and billing details (if applicable)

  • Feedback or queries submitted via forms or surveys

2. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

  • Provide access to courses and training content

  • Manage your account and learning records

  • Improve our services and platform performance

  • Respond to queries and support requests

  • Send essential service communications

  • Comply with legal or regulatory obligations

3. Legal Basis for Processing

We process your data based on:

  • Contract: To provide you with our services

  • Consent: For optional communications or marketing

  • Legal obligation: To comply with laws and regulations

  • Legitimate interests: To improve our services and ensure security

4. Data Sharing

We may share data with:

  • Trusted service providers (e.g. LMS hosting, email systems)

  • Payment processors

  • Legal or regulatory authorities when required

We do not sell your personal data to third parties.

5. Data Storage & Security

The data that we collect from you may be transferred to, and stored at, a destination outside the European Economic Area (“EEA”), this is compliant with GDPR. We take all reasonable steps necessary to ensure that your data is treated securely and in accordance with this data privacy policy. We implement technical and organisational measures to protect your information against loss, misuse, or unauthorised access.

However, the transmission of information via the internet - public and private networks - is not completely secure.

We will do our best to protect your information, however, we cannot guarantee the security of your data or information that is transmitted to us. Any and all transmission is at your own risk.

6. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Request data deletion (“right to be forgotten”) or correction

  • If you would like your data deleted or corrected contact us at techpodge@techpodge.uk to make this request. We will respond within 28 days.

7. Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary for the purposes stated above or as required by law. Learning records may be kept longer for compliance or audit purposes.

8. Updates to This Policy

We may update this policy from time to time.

9. Acceptance of This Policy

By using our services, you agree to the collection and use of your data as described in this policy.