Last updated: 9 October 2026.

Cookies and local storage

A cookie is information saved by your browser and sent to the relevant website on later requests. Local storage is saved in the browser but is not automatically sent with each request. Some technologies are needed for site operation; analytics is optional.

Current browser storage

NameUseLifetime
mindbrewery_session (or the configured session name)Essential PHP session for secure operation, forms, login and article continuationBrowser session; server-side expiry depends on hosting session configuration
mb-consent-v2Remembers whether you accepted analytics or chose essential onlyBrowser local storage until cleared
mb-analytics-consentMirrors your analytics choice to the server so it can reject unconsented analytics requestsUp to one year, or until changed
mb-themeRemembers the appearance you explicitly selectBrowser local storage until cleared

Browser configurations that block local storage may use a first-party cookie fallback for these preferences (up to one year). These preference and consent choices are separate from optional analytics.

Optional analytics

With your consent, our first-party system records pageviews, reading depth, searches, sharing actions and article continuation. It uses a pseudonymous hash of your website session and does not rely on an external analytics provider. Raw records are deleted after six months. Declining optional analytics does not prevent you reading articles.

Google reCAPTCHA

Only the contact page uses Google reCAPTCHA v3 to identify automated submissions. Loading that page may send device and browser information to Google and may involve Google cookies or other storage beyond our control. See Google's privacy information. You can continue reading articles without visiting or using the contact form.

Advertising and newsletters

There is currently no advertising network or active newsletter service on Mind Brewery. If advertising technologies are introduced, we will update this policy and implement the consent arrangements required for them first.

Changing your choices

You can review or change your choice at any time. Select Essential only or Accept analytics in the cookie preferences panel. You can also delete stored preferences through your browser settings.