# Cookie Policy

**Free Me South Africa (Pty) Ltd**
Registration Number: 2025/384802/07
Version 1.0 | Effective Date: 24 August 2026

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## 1. What Cookies Are

Cookies are small text files stored on your device by a website when you visit it. They are widely used to make websites function, improve user experience, and provide information to website owners.

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## 2. Cookies FMSA Uses

FMSA uses only the minimum cookies required to operate the Platform securely. We do not use advertising cookies, tracking cookies, or third-party analytics cookies.

### 2.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies

| Cookie | Purpose | Duration | Can Be Disabled? |
|---|---|---|---|
| `fmsa_access_token` | JWT authentication token - keeps you logged in during a session | 8 hours or until browser close | No - Platform will not function without it |
| `fmsa_refresh_token` | JWT refresh token - allows token renewal without re-login | 30 days | No - required for authentication |
| `fmsa_session` | Session identifier for CSRF protection | Session (cleared on close) | No |

### 2.2 Cookies We Do Not Use

FMSA does not use:
- Advertising or marketing cookies
- Social media tracking pixels
- Google Analytics or similar analytics platforms
- Third-party retargeting cookies
- Any cookie that tracks your activity on other websites

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## 3. Legal Basis

Strictly necessary cookies do not require your consent under POPIA or the ECT Act, as they are essential for the Platform to function and cannot be switched off.

All cookies used by FMSA are first-party (set by freemesouthafrica.co.za) and contain no personally identifiable information beyond an encrypted session reference.

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## 4. Managing Cookies

You can control cookies through your browser settings:

- **Chrome:** Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data
- **Firefox:** Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and Site Data
- **Safari:** Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data
- **Edge:** Settings > Cookies and site permissions

Disabling all cookies will prevent the Platform from functioning and you will not be able to log in or complete your self-exclusion application.

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## 5. Contact

Questions about cookies:
exclusions@freemesouthafrica.co.za

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*Free Me South Africa (Pty) Ltd | Reg. 2025/384802/07*