Our current approach
HomeStart does not currently use advertising, behavioural tracking or third-party analytics cookies. It uses one strictly necessary sign-in cookie and browser local storage requested by the user-facing dashboard. Because these support authentication, security and saved appearance/functionality, HomeStart does not show a consent banner for the current configuration. We will add consent controls before introducing any non-essential storage.
Strictly necessary cookie
- homestart_session — an HTTP-only, Secure, SameSite=Lax cookie used to keep a signed-in account authenticated. It expires after seven days or sooner when you sign out or revoke the session. JavaScript cannot read this cookie.
Local browser storage
HomeStart stores layout, theme, wallpaper, width, transparency and individual widget preferences in localStorage. This provides fast startup and an offline fallback. When signed in, supported preferences also sync to your account. Local storage remains until you clear site data, reset a preference or remove it through browser controls.
Connected and external services
Opening a publisher, search provider, media stream or connected service may allow that separate website to set its own cookies. HomeStart does not control those cookies; review the destination’s information before using it.
Your controls
You can sign out to remove the active session cookie and use browser settings to clear HomeStart site data. Blocking the sign-in cookie prevents account login. Clearing local storage resets device-local preferences, but signed-in account settings may download again. Contact privacy@homestart.page with questions.