Cookie Policy
Last updated: January 2, 2026
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and provide information to website owners. Cookies help us remember your preferences, understand how you use our platform, and improve your overall experience.
2. How We Use Cookies
Shopstar uses cookies and similar technologies for several purposes:
- Essential Cookies: Required for the platform to function properly, including authentication and security
- Preference Cookies: Remember your settings and preferences
- Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how visitors interact with our platform
- Performance Cookies: Improve platform performance and user experience
3. Types of Cookies We Use
Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually set in response to actions you take, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in, or filling in forms.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| authjs.session-token | Maintains your login session | Session |
| authjs.csrf-token | Prevents cross-site request forgery | Session |
| cookie-consent | Stores your cookie preferences | 1 year |
Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our platform by collecting and reporting information anonymously.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _ga_* | Google Analytics 4 - maintains session state | 2 years |
4. Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies are placed by third-party services that appear on our pages. We use the following third-party services:
- Google Analytics: For website analytics and performance monitoring
- Stripe: For secure payment processing
- Paystack: For payment processing in supported regions
- Cloudflare: For security and performance optimisation
5. Managing Cookies
You have the right to decide whether to accept or reject cookies. You can manage your cookie preferences in the following ways:
Browser Settings
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. You can set your browser to block or delete cookies. However, if you block essential cookies, some parts of the platform may not function properly.
Opt-Out Links
You can opt out of specific third-party cookies:
6. Similar Technologies
In addition to cookies, we may use other similar technologies:
- Local Storage: Stores data in your browser for improved performance
- Session Storage: Temporary storage that is cleared when you close your browser
- Pixel Tags: Small graphics used to track user behaviour and measure campaign effectiveness
7. Cookies on Merchant Stores
Merchants using Shopstar may set their own cookies on their individual stores. Shopstar is not responsible for the cookie policies of individual merchants. Please refer to each merchant's privacy and cookie policies for information about how they use cookies.
8. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for other operational, legal, or regulatory reasons. We will notify you of any material changes by updating the "Last updated" date at the top of this policy.
9. Contact Us
If you have any questions about our use of cookies, please contact us at privacy@shopstar.co.za or via WhatsApp at +27 60 016 3490
10. More Information
For more information about how we collect and use your personal data, please see our Privacy Policy.