Cookie Policy

Last updated: 9/11/2025

1. What Are Cookies

Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device when you visit a website. They are used to make websites more efficient, provide information to website owners, and improve your browsing experience.

USDS uses cookies to improve our website functionality, analyze traffic, and personalize your experience.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

2.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are essential for the website to function and cannot be disabled. They include:

  • Session cookies to keep your session active
  • Security cookies to prevent fraud
  • Preference cookies to remember your settings
  • Load balancing cookies to distribute traffic

2.2 Functionality Cookies

These cookies enhance website functionality and your browsing experience:

  • Language and region preferences
  • Accessibility settings
  • Display preferences
  • Form completion information

2.3 Performance and Analytics Cookies

These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website:

  • Google Analytics for traffic analysis
  • Website performance metrics
  • Device and browser information
  • Most visited pages and time spent

2.4 Marketing and Advertising Cookies

These cookies are used to show relevant ads and measure the effectiveness of advertising campaigns:

  • Advertising targeting cookies
  • Remarketing cookies
  • Social media cookies
  • Advertising partner cookies

3. Specific Cookies Used

Cookie NameTypeDurationPurpose
usds_sessionNecessarySessionMaintains user session
usds_preferencesFunctionality1 yearStores user preferences
_gaAnalytics2 yearsGoogle Analytics
_gidAnalytics24 hoursGoogle Analytics
cookieConsentNecessary1 yearStores cookie consent

4. How to Manage Cookies

4.1 Browser Settings

You can control and manage cookies through your browser settings. However, disabling some cookies may affect website functionality.

Instructions for common browsers:

  • Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data
  • Firefox: Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data
  • Safari: Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data
  • Edge: Settings → Cookies and site permissions

4.2 Opt-out Tools

You can use the following tools to disable specific cookies:

5. Third-Party Cookies

Our website may contain third-party cookies for services such as:

  • Google Analytics for traffic analysis
  • Social media for content sharing
  • Payment services for transactions
  • Security services for website protection

These cookies are subject to the respective privacy policies of third parties.

6. Updates to This Cookie Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or for other operational, legal, or regulatory reasons. We encourage you to review this page regularly to stay informed about our use of cookies.

7. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Cookie Policy or our use of cookies, contact us:

Email: privacy@usds.com
Address: [Legal address]
Phone: [Phone number]

8. Related Links