HELPtag takes cybersecurity and the protection of personal information seriously. We aim to use cookies responsibly and implement reasonable safeguards to protect information processed through our services.
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how HELPtag ("we", "us" or "our") uses cookies and similar technologies when visitors access www.helptag.co.za and its associated online services.
This policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
We process personal information in accordance with applicable South African legislation, including the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA).
3. Types of Cookies
3.1 Session Cookies
Session cookies are generally temporary and expire when your browser session ends.
They may be used to maintain authenticated sessions, remember shopping cart contents and support website security.
3.2 Persistent Cookies
Persistent cookies remain on your device for a defined period or until deleted.
These cookies may remember preferences or support returning-user functionality.
3.3 First-Party Cookies
First-party cookies are set by the website you are visiting, such as HELPtag.
3.4 Third-Party Cookies
Third-party cookies may be set by external service providers whose technologies are integrated into a website.
Depending on the services enabled, these providers may include analytics, payment, embedded-content or other technical service providers.
4. How HELPtag Uses Cookies
HELPtag uses, or may use where the relevant feature is enabled, the following categories of cookies.
| Category | Purpose | Essential? |
|---|---|---|
| Strictly Necessary | Login sessions, shopping cart functionality, account security and essential website operations. | Yes |
| Functional | Remembering preferences and supporting optional website features. | Usually no |
| Analytics | Understanding website traffic, performance and visitor interactions. | No |
| Third-Party | Supporting external services, where integrated, such as payment processing or embedded content. | Depends on the service |
5. Analytics and Third-Party Services
HELPtag may use website analytics services, including Google Analytics where enabled, to understand how visitors interact with the website.
Analytics technologies may collect information such as:
- Pages visited and navigation patterns.
- Browser and device characteristics.
- Approximate geographic location.
- Referral sources and website performance.
- Usage events and technical identifiers.
Where optional analytics cookies require consent under applicable law, they should only be activated after the appropriate consent has been obtained.
External providers may process information under their own privacy policies and contractual arrangements with HELPtag.
The inclusion of an external service does not remove HELPtag's obligations under applicable data protection legislation.
6. Cookies and Personal Information
HELPtag provides a platform through which users may store personal, emergency contact and medical information.
We recognise that medical information is particularly sensitive and requires appropriate protection.
Cookies used for account authentication and website functionality may be associated with a user session.
Such cookies should not contain readable medical records, passwords or other sensitive account information.
Information collected through cookies will be processed for appropriate, specified purposes and retained only for as long as necessary or legally required.
Further information about the collection, use, disclosure and protection of personal information is available in our Privacy Policy .
7. Cookie Security and Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity remains a key priority for HELPtag.
HELPtag is committed to implementing reasonable technical and organisational safeguards appropriate to the risks associated with its services.
These safeguards may include secure communications, access controls, appropriate session management, vulnerability management and security monitoring, where implemented and applicable.
Users should protect their account credentials, avoid using untrusted devices and log out of shared computers.
No internet-connected service can guarantee absolute protection against every security threat.
HELPtag will address security incidents and fulfil applicable notification and protection obligations in accordance with South African law.
8. How to Manage or Delete Cookies
Most modern web browsers allow you to view, block or delete cookies through their privacy and security settings.
Instructions are available from the browser providers:
Blocking or deleting certain cookies may cause you to be logged out or prevent some HELPtag features from functioning correctly.
9. Cookie Consent and Your Choices
Where required by applicable law, HELPtag will seek an appropriate lawful basis before using optional cookies that process personal information.
Strictly necessary cookies may be used where required to provide a service requested by the visitor, subject to applicable legal requirements.
Where processing is based on consent, visitors should be able to withdraw that consent through an available preference mechanism or by contacting us.
Withdrawing consent does not affect processing that was lawful before withdrawal.
You may manage cookies through your browser settings. For questions about cookie-related personal information or withdrawal of consent, contact HELPtag using the details below.
10. Changes to This Cookie Policy
HELPtag may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in legislation, website functionality, technologies or business operations.
Material changes affecting how personal information is processed will be communicated where required by law.
We encourage visitors to review this page periodically.
11. Contact HELPtag
For questions about cookies, privacy or the processing of personal information, please contact:
HELPtag
Website:
www.helptag.co.za
Email:
[email protected]
This policy is governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa.