Cookie Policy
Last updated: January 28, 2026
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how Job Application Tracker ("we", "our", or "us") uses cookies and similar technologies when you use our service. This policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
By using our Service, you consent to the use of cookies in accordance with this policy. If you do not agree to our use of cookies, you should disable cookies through your browser settings or discontinue use of the Service.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and provide information to the site owners.
Cookies can be "persistent" (remain on your device until deleted or expired) or "session" cookies (deleted when you close your browser).
3. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
3.1 Essential Cookies (Strictly Necessary)
These cookies are necessary for the Service to function and cannot be disabled in our systems.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| token | Authentication - stores JWT token | 7 days |
| user | Stores user information (name, email, profile data) | 7 days |
| session_id | Maintains your session state | Session |
Legal Basis: These cookies are necessary for contract performance (GDPR Article 6(1)(b)) and cannot be disabled without affecting Service functionality.
3.2 Functional Cookies
These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalization.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| theme_preference | Remembers your display preferences | 1 year |
| filter_state | Remembers your job filter preferences | 30 days |
| language | Stores your language preference | 1 year |
Legal Basis: Consent (GDPR Article 6(1)(a)) or legitimate interests (GDPR Article 6(1)(f)).
3.3 Performance and Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with the Service by collecting and reporting information anonymously.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _analytics_id | Tracks page views and user behavior | 2 years |
| _performance | Measures Service performance | 1 year |
Legal Basis: Consent (GDPR Article 6(1)(a)).
4. Local Storage
In addition to cookies, we use browser Local Storage to store data on your device:
- localStorage.token: JWT authentication token (expires after 7 days)
- localStorage.user: User profile data for quick access
- localStorage.preferences: UI preferences and settings
Local Storage data persists until explicitly deleted by you or our application. This data is not transmitted to our servers unless you initiate an action that requires it.
5. Third-Party Cookies
We may use third-party services that set their own cookies:
5.1 Google Gemini AI
When using AI features, Google may set cookies according to their privacy policy. We do not have control over these cookies.
- Purpose: AI model processing and service delivery
- Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy
5.2 MongoDB Services
Our database hosting provider may use cookies for service management.
5.3 Email Service Provider
Email verification and password reset emails may contain tracking pixels to measure delivery and open rates.
6. Cookie Duration
Cookies are set for different durations based on their purpose:
- Session Cookies: Deleted when you close your browser
- Authentication Cookies: 7 days (matches JWT token expiry)
- Preference Cookies: 30 days to 1 year
- Analytics Cookies: Up to 2 years
7. Managing Cookies
7.1 Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to manage cookie preferences through their settings. You can:
- View which cookies are stored
- Delete cookies individually or all at once
- Block cookies from specific websites
- Block all cookies
- Delete cookies when closing the browser
Browser-specific instructions:
- Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data
- Firefox: Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
- Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data
- Edge: Settings → Cookies and site permissions
7.2 Impact of Disabling Cookies
Important: If you disable or delete essential cookies, the Service will not function properly. Specifically:
- You will not be able to log in or stay logged in
- Your preferences will not be saved
- Some features may be unavailable or malfunction
Disabling non-essential cookies (analytics, marketing) will not affect core functionality but may limit our ability to improve the Service.
7.3 Clear Local Storage
To clear Local Storage data:
- Open browser Developer Tools (F12)
- Go to "Application" or "Storage" tab
- Select "Local Storage"
- Right-click and select "Clear"
Alternatively, log out from the Service to clear authentication data, or use the "Clear browsing data" option in your browser settings.
8. Do Not Track (DNT)
Some browsers offer a "Do Not Track" (DNT) signal. Currently, there is no industry standard for interpreting DNT signals. We do not respond to DNT signals, but we minimize data collection and respect your privacy choices through browser settings.
9. Cookies and GDPR Compliance
Under GDPR and ePrivacy Directive (Cookie Law):
- Strictly necessary cookies do not require consent (Article 6(1)(b) and Recital 49)
- Non-essential cookies require informed consent before placement
- You have the right to withdraw consent at any time
- Consent must be freely given, specific, informed, and unambiguous
We provide clear information about cookies and obtain consent where required.
10. Cookies Used by Service Features
10.1 Authentication System
Uses JWT tokens stored in Local Storage (not cookies) with 7-day expiry. This is more secure than traditional session cookies and allows for stateless authentication.
10.2 Document Generation (AI Features)
AI processing is server-side and does not set additional cookies. Your profile data is temporarily sent to Google Gemini AI and not stored by them (per their policy).
10.3 Job Scraping
Web scraping is performed server-side using Playwright. No cookies are set on your device for this feature.
11. International Transfers
Cookies may result in data transfer to servers located outside your country. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place through:
- Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) with third-party providers
- Adequacy decisions for countries with equivalent protection
- Privacy Shield certification where applicable
12. Updates to Cookie Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised "Last updated" date.
Material changes will be notified via email or prominent notice. Your continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
13. Contact Us
For questions about our use of cookies, please contact:
Data Protection Officer
Email: privacy@jobtracker.app
Cookie Inquiries: cookies@jobtracker.app
Address: [Your Company Address]
14. Cookie Audit
Last cookie audit performed: January 2026
We regularly review and audit our cookie usage to ensure compliance and minimize data collection. This audit identifies:
- All cookies currently in use
- Their purpose and legal basis
- Duration and data collected
- Third-party cookies and their providers
Cookie Preferences
You can manage your cookie preferences at any time through your browser settings or by contacting us.
Questions? Email us at cookies@jobtracker.app