Cookies Policy

Last Updated

This Cookies Policy was last updated on 02 November 2026.

What Cookies and Similar Technologies Are

Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They allow the site to remember actions and preferences over time. Similar technologies include web beacons, pixels and local storage that can store or access information on your device. These tools can record details such as your IP address, browser type, device identifiers, pages visited, time spent on pages and interactions with content. In the United Kingdom this policy follows the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations together with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.

Why the Site Uses Cookies

observero operates a commercial website providing professional resources on live television production. Cookies help deliver core functions, remember user choices, measure performance and support any advertising activities. Without them many features would not work correctly and the site could not provide a reliable experience for visitors interested in studio equipment integration, camera techniques, acoustics, lighting and production processes.

Categories of Cookies and Similar Technologies

Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies enable essential functions such as page navigation, form submission and security features. They do not require consent under PECR because they are strictly necessary. observero uses them to maintain session continuity and protect against unauthorised access.

Functional Cookies

Functional cookies remember preferences such as language settings or display choices. They improve usability but are not essential. Consent is obtained before they are placed.

Analytics or Performance Cookies

These cookies collect information about how visitors use the site. They help identify popular content and improve performance. Data is aggregated and does not identify individuals directly. Consent is required and can be withdrawn at any time.

Advertising or Targeting Cookies

Advertising cookies track browsing habits to deliver relevant promotions. They may be used by third parties to build profiles. Explicit consent is obtained and users can refuse these cookies without affecting core site functions.

Social Media Cookies

If social media sharing tools are present these cookies allow platforms to track visits and activity. They require consent and are controlled through the site consent manager.

First-Party versus Third-Party Cookies

First-party cookies are set directly by observero and remain under our control. Third-party cookies are set by external providers such as analytics or advertising partners. Both types are used on this site and all third-party activity is disclosed in the consent manager so users can make informed choices.

Session versus Persistent Cookies

Session cookies exist only while the browser is open and are deleted when the session ends. Persistent cookies remain on the device for a defined period or until manually removed. Typical retention periods range from a few days for functional preferences to up to twenty-four months for analytics identifiers, after which the cookie is automatically deleted or requires fresh consent.

Data Handled and Purpose of Each Category

Strictly necessary cookies store session identifiers and security tokens to keep the site operational. Functional cookies retain user-selected preferences such as layout or notification settings. Analytics cookies record page views, referral sources and device information to produce usage reports. Advertising cookies capture interests and browsing patterns to serve targeted messages. All data processing is limited to the stated purposes and retained only as long as necessary.

Consent or Exemption Basis for Each Category

Under UK PECR strictly necessary cookies are exempt from consent because they are required for the service requested. All other categories rely on explicit, informed consent collected through the site-wide cookie banner. Consent is recorded and can be withdrawn without detriment. Where legitimate interests apply they are balanced against user rights and documented in the Privacy Policy.

Cookie Providers and Durations

The following providers are used: first-party session cookies for authentication lasting until browser close; first-party preference cookies for display settings retained for twelve months; third-party analytics cookies from a measurement provider stored for thirteen months; third-party advertising cookies from selected networks retained for six to twenty-four months depending on the campaign. Full current details appear in the consent manager interface.

How the Consent Manager Works

The site-wide cookie banner appears on first visit and allows granular acceptance or rejection of each non-essential category. Users may return to the banner or a dedicated preferences link at any time to change selections. Withdrawing consent immediately stops further placement of those cookies and existing ones are cleared where technically feasible.

Browser-Level Controls and Consequences

Most browsers allow users to block or delete cookies through settings menus. Blocking all cookies may prevent essential features such as form submission or personalised preferences from working. Users who disable cookies entirely should expect reduced functionality and may need to re-enter information on every visit.

International Transfers

Some third-party providers may process data outside the United Kingdom. Appropriate safeguards such as standard contractual clauses are in place. A cross-reference to the full Privacy Policy explains these arrangements in greater detail.

Policy Changes

observero may update this policy to reflect legal or operational developments. Material changes will be notified via the cookie banner or site notice. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

Contact Route

Questions about this Cookies Policy or data processing can be directed using the contact form on the Contacts page or by writing to MediaCityUK, University of Salford, MediaCityUK B4, Orange Tower, Salford Quays, Salford Quays M50 2HE, telephoning 0161 886 5300 or emailing hello-pipelinemedia@salford.ac.uk.