Effective date: October 17, 2025
Who we are: Woofle (“we,” “us,” “our”) operates https://www.woofle.org (the “Site”). Our mission is to donate a portion of our profits to animal rescues and welfare organizations.
1) Scope:
This Policy explains what personal information we collect when you use the Site (including our search page), how we use and share it, and the choices you have.
2) Information we collect
a) Information you provide
Contact details if you email us or subscribe to updates (e.g., name, email).
Any information you include in messages you send to us.
b) Information collected automatically
Technical data: IP address, device and browser information, operating system, referring/exit pages, timestamps.
Usage data: page views, clicks and interactions (e.g., pressing the search button).
Cookies and similar technologies set by us and our partners (see Section 5).
c) Search results delivered by Google
We use Google Programmable Search Engine (PSE) to provide search results and AdSense for Search to show ads. When you use our search page, your query is processed by Google’s services embedded on our Site. Google may collect your search terms, device information, IP address, and cookies as described in Google’s Privacy Policy and Terms. By default, we do not receive the full text of your queries; we work with aggregate counts for impact reporting.
3) How we use information
Provide and operate the Site (including search and ad delivery).
Measure and improve performance, security, and user experience.
Generate impact metrics (e.g., total searches and estimated donations) using aggregated data.
Publish transparency reports (donation totals/receipts) without personal data.
Detect, prevent and address fraud, abuse, or security issues.
Comply with legal obligations and enforce our terms.
4) Legal bases (EEA/UK)
Where GDPR/UK GDPR applies, we process personal data on these bases:
Consent for non-essential cookies/identifiers (ad personalization, certain analytics).
Legitimate interests to run a secure, reliable service and produce aggregate impact metrics.
Legal obligation where laws require retention or disclosure.
5) Cookies, ads, and analytics
a) Cookies & similar tech
We and our partners use cookies, local storage, and similar technologies to operate the Site and (with your consent where required) to measure usage and show ads.
b) Google PSE & AdSense for Search
Google may set/read cookies and collect data for ad delivery, reporting, and fraud prevention, and may personalize ads where you have enabled ad personalization. Learn more and manage preferences:
Google Privacy Policy: https://policies.google.com/privacy
Google Terms: https://policies.google.com/terms
Ads Settings: https://adssettings.google.com/
c) Analytics (if enabled)
We may use Google Analytics 4 (GA4) and/or Google Tag Manager to understand Site usage. You can opt out via the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on or our cookie banner.
6) How we share information
We do not sell personal information for money. We share limited data with:
Service providers (hosting, security, analytics, email).
Google (PSE and AdSense for Search) for search and ad delivery.
Authorities when required by law or to protect rights and users.
Business transfers (e.g., merger) under protections consistent with this Policy.
CPRA (California) note: Using advertising/analytics partners may be considered “sharing” for cross-context behavioral advertising. We honor opt-out choices where required (see Section 7).
7) Your choices and rights
Consent & cookies
Use our cookie banner to accept/reject non-essential cookies and revisit your choices.
For EEA/UK visitors, we request consent before setting non-essential cookies.
We honor Global Privacy Control (GPC) as an opt-out signal where feasible.
Ad & analytics controls
Manage Google ad personalization: https://adssettings.google.com/
Google Analytics opt-out: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
Privacy rights
Depending on your location, you may have rights to access, correct, delete, object, restrict, or port your personal data, and to withdraw consent.
To exercise rights or appeal a decision, contact privacy@woofle.org. We may need to verify your identity.
California residents: You have rights under the CCPA/CPRA, including to know, delete, and to opt out of sale/share. To opt out, use the cookie banner or email privacy@woofle.org. You may use an authorized agent with proper authorization.
8) Data retention
Server logs & site analytics: We aim to delete or anonymize personal data within 6 months unless we must keep it longer for security, fraud prevention, or legal compliance.
Communications: Kept as long as needed to handle your request and as required by law.
Aggregated, non-personal reports (e.g., donation totals) may be retained longer.
9) International transfers
We are based in [your country/state] and use providers that may process data in other countries, including the United States and the EEA. Where required, we use appropriate safeguards (such as EU Standard Contractual Clauses).
10) Security
We use reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect personal information. No method of transmission or storage is 100% secure.
11) Children’s privacy
The Site is not directed to children under under 16. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided personal data, contact us to request deletion.
12) Changes to this Policy
We may update this Policy from time to time. The “Effective date” above shows the latest revision. Significant changes will be posted on this page.
13) Contact us
Woofle
Email: privacy@woofle.org
Postal address: 2304 Lory Ct Alexandria, VA 22306
