§1 What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small alphanumeric text files stored on your computer, smartphone, or tablet when you visit and browse our online store https://whalehug.com/ (hereinafter referred to as the “Store”).
§2 Classification and Purpose of Cookies Used
We classify cookies based on their function, retention period, and source:
| Cookie Category | Function and Purpose | Consent Required? | Providers / Third Parties |
| Strictly Necessary | Essential for core features, security, checkout session retention, and user logins | No (Active by default) | Store Platform |
| Analytical & Performance | Tracking traffic patterns, popular products, and user engagement metrics | Yes (Requires active opt-in) | Google Analytics |
| Marketing & Advertising | Retargeting campaigns and delivering personalized ads across ad networks | Yes (Requires active opt-in) | Meta Ads, Google Ads |
§3 Consent Management and Google Consent Mode v2
- Non-essential cookies (analytical and marketing trackers) are blocked by default and will not be executed on your browser until you provide explicit, active opt-in consent via our Cookie Banner.
- The Store integrates Google Consent Mode v2 to ensure that your tracking preferences are communicated dynamically to our analytics and advertising partners. If consent is declined, Google Consent Mode v2 prevents cookie tracking while allowing anonymized performance signals to be processed.
You can review, modify, or completely withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the “Manage Cookies” widget located in the bottom right corner of our Store, or by adjusting your web browser settings.
