Cookie Policy

Effective Date: April 01, 2025
Last Updated: April 01, 2025

Welcome to hkies.org.hk

Operated by The Hong Kong Institution of Engineering Surveyors. This Cookie Policy explains how we use cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website. It complements our Privacy Policy and provides detailed information about the types of cookies we use, their purposes, and how you can manage your preferences. By using our website, you consent to the use of cookies as described below, unless you adjust your settings to opt out.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device (e.g., computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit a website. They help us recognize your device, store preferences, and improve your browsing experience. Similar technologies, such as web beacons, pixels, and local storage, may also be used for comparable purposes.

2. How We Use Cookies

We use cookies to enhance your experience on hkies.org.hk, analyze usage, and deliver relevant content. The specific purposes include:

• Functionality: Remembering your preferences (e.g., language settings) and ensuring the website operates smoothly.
• Performance: Analyzing how visitors use our site (e.g., which pages are most popular) to improve its design and functionality.
• Personalization: Delivering tailored content or features based on your interactions with the website.
• Analytics: Measuring website traffic and performance to understand user behavior and optimize our services.
• Advertising: Displaying relevant advertisements, either on our site or through third-party partners (if applicable).

3. Types of Cookies We Use

We categorize cookies based on their function and duration:

3.1 By Function

• Essential Cookies: Necessary for the website to function properly (e.g., enabling navigation or access to secure areas). These cannot be disabled.
• Performance/Analytics Cookies: Collect anonymized data about how you use the site (e.g., pages visited, time spent) to help us improve it.
• Functionality Cookies: Enhance your experience by remembering your choices (e.g., login details or preferences).
• Targeting/Advertising Cookies: Track your browsing habits to deliver personalized ads (if applicable). These are typically set by third-party partners with your consent.

3.2 By Duration

• Session Cookies: Temporary cookies that expire when you close your browser.
• Persistent Cookies: Remain on your device for a set period (e.g., days, months, or years) or until you delete them, allowing us to recognize you on return visits.

4. Third-Party Cookies

We may allow trusted third parties (e.g., analytics providers like Google Analytics or advertising networks) to place cookies on your device. These third parties may collect data about your online activities over time and across websites. We do not control their practices, so we encourage you to review their privacy policies for more information: Google Analytics Privacy Policy.

5. Legal Basis for Using Cookies

Under the Hong Kong Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, where cookies collect personal data, we rely on:

• Your consent for non-essential cookies (e.g., analytics, targeting), which you can provide or withdraw via our cookie settings.
• Our legitimate interests for essential cookies, as they are necessary for the website’s operation and do not override your privacy rights.

6. Managing Your Cookie Preferences

You can control how cookies are used on hkies.org.hk:

• Browser Settings: Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies. Visit your browser’s help section for instructions (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari). Note that disabling essential cookies may affect website functionality.
• Cookie Consent Tool: Upon your first visit, you may see a pop-up allowing you to accept or customize cookie settings. You can revisit these preferences [Insert Link or Instructions] at any time.
• Opt-Out Links: For third-party advertising cookies, you can opt out via tools like Network Advertising Initiative or Your Online Choices.

7. List of Cookies We Use

Below is an example of cookies we may use (customize this list based on actual tools deployed):

Cookie Name	Purpose	Type	Duration	Provider
_ga	Tracks website usage	Analytics	2 years	Google Analytics
_session_id	Maintains user session	Essential	Session	hkies.org.hk
_pref_lang	Stores language preference	Functionality	1 year	hkies.org.hk
_ad_track	Delivers targeted ads	Advertising	6 months	[Third Party Name]

For a complete, up-to-date list, please contact us at [email protected].

8. Data Security and Retention

Cookies containing personal data are protected with reasonable security measures, as outlined in our Privacy Policy. We retain cookie data only as long as necessary for the purposes described above or as required by law, after which it is deleted or anonymized.

9. Changes to This Cookie Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The revised version will be posted here with an updated “Last Updated” date. We recommend reviewing it periodically.

10. Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about our use of cookies, please contact:

The Hong Kong Institution of Eng Surveyors
No. 79 Tsuen Wan Post Office, New Territories, Hong Kong
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +852 5625 2312

You may also submit inquiries through our Contact Form.

Note: Note: This Cookie Policy is provided for informational purposes. Customize it to reflect the specific cookies and technologies used on hkies.org.hk, and consult a legal expert to ensure compliance with the Hong Kong Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance and other regulations.