Cookie Policy
Last updated: 2026-05-12.
This page describes the cookies and similar storage technologies used on TheGuitarTuner.com, why each is set, and how to opt out. It supplements the privacy policy rather than replacing it.
What a cookie is
A cookie is a small text file that a site asks your browser to store. It lets the site remember something between page loads — a preference, a session identifier, or an anonymised analytics ID. Cookies cannot read other files on your device, and the cookies described here cannot identify you by name on their own.
Categories of cookies used
Strictly necessary
The tuner itself does not require any cookies to function. The page works the same whether or not cookies are allowed. We list this category for completeness — if it changes in the future, we will note it here.
Analytics
The site uses Google Analytics 4 to understand traffic patterns at an aggregate level. Cookies set in this category may include:
- _ga — a client identifier used to distinguish unique browsers. Typically retained for up to two years.
- _ga_<container-id> — session-state cookie used by GA4 to maintain session counts. Typically retained for up to two years.
These cookies do not record your name or email and are not used for advertising.
Advertising (Google AdSense)
The site displays ads via Google AdSense. Google and its partners may set cookies in order to deliver and measure ads, cap how often the same ad is shown, and — unless you have opted out — show ads relevant to your interests. Cookies commonly set in this category include __gads, __gpi, and the IDE cookie set under the doubleclick.net domain.
Full, current details of the cookies Google uses for advertising live on Google's own page: Types of cookies used by Google.
How to opt out
You have several options, and you can combine them:
- Google ad personalisation — turn it off at Google Ads Settings. Ads will still appear, but they will not be personalised based on your activity.
- Industry-wide opt-out (Europe) — manage preferences across many ad networks at youronlinechoices.com.
- Industry-wide opt-out (United States and elsewhere) — use aboutads.info or optout.networkadvertising.org.
- Google Analytics — install the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on, or block analytics cookies through your browser.
- Browser controls — every major browser lets you block all cookies, block third-party cookies, or clear cookies on exit. Look for "Cookies and site data" in your browser's privacy settings.
Do Not Track and Global Privacy Control
We do not currently rely on a generic "Do Not Track" header because the standard was never widely agreed. Where required by law (for example, the CCPA's Global Privacy Control signal), we treat the signal as an opt-out of any "sale" or "sharing" of personal information under that law.
Changes to this policy
If we add new cookies, change providers, or remove categories, we will update this page and revise the "Last updated" date. Material changes will also be noted on the homepage for a reasonable period.
Questions
For cookie or privacy questions, email [email protected].