Cookie Policy
At BankingTimes, we value your trust. This Cookie Policy explains how we use cookies to keep our website secure, improve your browsing experience, and show you relevant financial content.
We believe in clear and simple information, so you know exactly what’s happening when you visit our site.
This page is regularly reviewed for accuracy.
Last Reviewed: 09 Sep 2025
Your privacy and trust are our priority.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They do not store personal details such as your name or bank account. Instead, they help our site remember your preferences, keep the website secure, and make your browsing experience smoother and more reliable.
Cookies are harmless text files, not software, they cannot run programs or spread viruses.
They allow us to understand how our visitors use the site so we can improve content and usability.
Cookies show us which guides matter most, helping improve content on SIPPs and equity release.
Certain cookies are required for essential functions like security and accessibility.
Why We Use Cookies
We use cookies to make sure our website works properly, to keep it secure, and to help you find the financial information you need with ease. Some cookies are essential, while others simply improve your browsing experience.
Essential & Security
Site Protection – Keeps the website safe and prevents misuse.
Core Functions – Ensures pages load and navigation works smoothly.
Basic Preferences – Remembers simple choices like language or text size.
Experience & Improvement
Useful Insights – Shows us which pages are most helpful to visitors.
Better Content – Helps us refine guides on topics like SIPPs and equity release.
Faster Browsing – Supports a smoother, quicker experience on the site.
Types of Cookies We Use
Different cookies have different purposes. Some are essential for our website to function, while others help us improve your experience or provide you with more relevant financial information.
Essential Cookies
These cookies are required for our website to function securely and reliably. They keep the site safe, prevent misuse, and ensure navigation and forms always work correctly.
Without them, vital services like applying for SIPPs or equity release could not function.
Performance Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors use our website each day. For example, we can track which guides on SIPPs or equity release are most popular with readers.
This allows us to improve our content and make sure you find the information you need.
Functionality Cookies
These cookies remember your preferences when you visit our site again. They store display settings, text size, or other details, so you don’t need to adjust them repeatedly.
This creates a smoother browsing journey and makes the site more personal for you.
Advertising Cookies
These cookies may be used to show relevant services and offers you may like. They are applied responsibly and help ensure you see financial content that fits your interests.
You are always in control and can update or withdraw consent in Cookie Settings.
Compliance Note
We follow the requirements of UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). Non-essential cookies (like performance and advertising) are only used with your consent, and you are always in control of your preferences.
A full list of cookies and their expiry dates is available on our Cookie Settings page.
Managing Your Cookie Preferences
We give you full control over how cookies are used on BankingTimes. You can accept all cookies, reject non-essential ones, or adjust your preferences at any time.
Update Preferences: You can change your cookie settings at any time by visiting our Cookie Settings page, available through the banner or at the bottom of this site.
Browser Settings: Most internet browsers let you block or delete cookies. This may affect how our site functions, but it gives you extra control over your privacy.
Withdrawing Consent: If you decide later that you no longer want certain non-essential cookies, you can withdraw your consent quickly and easily.
Third-Party Cookies & Data Use
In addition to our own cookies, we may use trusted third-party services to help us improve BankingTimes and provide you with relevant information. These cookies are controlled by the providers listed below.
Analytics Providers
We use tools such as Google Analytics to understand how visitors use our site. This helps us improve financial guides on topics like SIPPs and equity release.
Advertising Partners
Some cookies may come from advertising networks, such as Google Ads or Meta. These cookies help show financial information or offers that are more relevant to you.
Affiliate Tracking
When we recommend a financial product, cookies may track referrals. This helps us fund free resources responsibly while staying transparent.
How Long Do Cookies Last?
Not all cookies stay on your device for the same amount of time. Some are temporary and disappear when you leave, while others last longer to remember your settings.
Session Cookies: These are temporary cookies that only last while you browse. They disappear as soon as you close your internet browser, keeping your session private.
Persistent Cookies: These remain on your device for a set period of time. They remember your preferences and help us improve the site, until they are deleted manually or expire.
We review and update cookie expiry periods to meet legal requirements and ensure they are not kept longer than necessary.
Your Rights & Legal Basis
We respect your privacy and give you full control over your personal data. Our use of cookies follows the rules set out under UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
Your Rights Include:
The right to accept or refuse non-essential cookies.
The right to withdraw consent at any time.
The right to request that your data be deleted.
The right to know how cookies are used on this site.
Legal Basis for Cookies
Consent – for cookies used in performance, functionality, or advertising.
Legitimate Interest – for cookies required to keep the site secure and operational.
For more information about your rights, visit the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) at [ico.org.uk]. You can also contact us directly with any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, please review these FAQ’s.
Do I Have to Accept Cookies to Use This Site?
No. Essential cookies are always active to keep the site secure, but you can choose to reject non-essential cookies and still access our content.
Are Cookies Dangerous for My Computer?
No. Cookies are small text files that cannot run programs, install software, or spread viruses. They are simply tools to make websites work better.
What Happens if I Turn Off Cookies?
You will still be able to use BankingTimes.co.uk, but some features may not work as smoothly. For example, forms may reset, or preferences like text size won’t be saved.
Can I Change My Cookie Choices Later?
Yes. You can update your cookie preferences anytime using the Cookie Settings link in the footer, or through your internet browser’s settings.
Updates & Contact Information
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, regulation, or the way we use cookies. We encourage you to review this page regularly to stay informed.
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