Cookies Policy
Understanding Digital Tracking Technologies on Astron.pk
1. Introduction to Cookies
This Cookies Policy explains how Astrontech (Pvt) Ltd uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on astron.pk. By continuing to use our website, you consent to our use of cookies as described in this policy.
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device (computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, enhance user experience, and provide analytical information to website owners.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies serve various purposes:
- Essential Functionality: Enabling core website features like user authentication and shopping carts
- Security: Protecting against fraud and maintaining secure sessions
- Performance: Understanding how visitors use the site to improve functionality
- Personalization: Remembering your preferences and settings
- Analytics: Measuring traffic patterns and user behavior
Types of Cookies We Use
Session Cookies
Temporary cookies that expire when you close your browser. These are essential for website functionality and cannot be disabled without losing access to key features.
Persistent Cookies
Cookies that remain on your device for a set period (from days to years) even after closing the browser. These remember your preferences for future visits.
First-Party Cookies
Set directly by astron.pk for our own operational purposes.
Third-Party Cookies
Set by external services we use (e.g., Google reCAPTCHA for security, analytics providers).
3. Cookies Used on Astron.pk
Our website utilizes the WHMCS (Web Host Manager Complete Solution) platform for our client area and e-commerce functionality. Below are the specific cookies deployed:
3.1 Essential Session Cookies
WHMCSInstanceID
Type: Session Cookie (Non-Persistent)
Expiry: When browser closes
Function: Stores a unique session ID enabling the system to pass variables between pages (such as shopping cart contents or login status) without storing personal information on your device.
Can be disabled: No – essential for website functionality
3.2 Persistent Functional Cookies
WHMCSUser
Type: Persistent Cookie
Expiry: 365 days
Function: If you select "Remember Me" during login, this cookie stores your authentication details for automatic login on future visits. This enhances convenience while maintaining security standards.
Can be disabled: Yes – you can choose not to select "Remember Me"
WHMCSAffiliateID
Type: Persistent Cookie
Expiry: 90 days
Function: If you visit our site through a business partner's referral link, this cookie stores the affiliate ID to ensure proper credit for any subsequent orders. This supports our partner ecosystem.
Can be disabled: Yes – through browser settings
WHMCSLinkID
Type: Persistent Cookie
Expiry: Permanent (until manually deleted)
Function: Tracks the specific path visitors use to reach our site, helping us understand which marketing channels are most effective. Used for conversion rate statistics and campaign optimization.
Can be disabled: Yes – through browser settings
3.3 Security and Bot Protection
reCAPTCHA / hCaptcha
Type: Third-Party Cookie (Google/hCaptcha)
Expiry: Varies by service
Function: Analyzes user behavior to determine if the visitor is human or an automated bot. Essential for protecting our contact forms, account registration, and Complain Log from fraudulent activity.
Data Collected: Browser information, mouse movements, interaction patterns
Can be disabled: Not recommended – may prevent form submissions
4. Comprehensive Cookie Table
| Cookie Name | Category | Typical Expiry | Core Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| WHMCSInstanceID | Essential | Session End | Maintains secure visitor state and shopping cart |
| WHMCSUser | Functional | 365 Days | Auto-login for returning clients |
| WHMCSAffiliateID | Functional | 90 Days | Tracks referrals for business partners |
| WHMCSLinkID | Analytics | Permanent | Analyzes marketing link effectiveness |
| reCAPTCHA | Security | Varies | Prevents automated spam and bot attacks |
5. Why We Use Cookies
Essential Website Functionality
- Maintaining your login session across pages
- Remembering items in your shopping cart
- Processing secure transactions
- Enabling access to protected client areas
Enhanced User Experience
- Remembering your language and regional preferences
- Storing your contact preferences
- Recognizing returning visitors
- Providing personalized content recommendations
Security and Fraud Prevention
- Detecting suspicious activity and potential threats
- Protecting against automated attacks and spam
- Verifying session integrity
- Preventing unauthorized account access
Analytics and Improvement
- Understanding how visitors navigate our site
- Identifying popular products and content
- Measuring effectiveness of marketing campaigns
- Improving website performance and user experience
6. Managing Cookie Preferences
You have several options to control or limit how cookies are used on your device:
Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to:
- View and delete cookies currently stored
- Block all cookies
- Block third-party cookies only
- Clear cookies when closing the browser
- Receive notifications when cookies are set
Browser-Specific Instructions
Google Chrome
Settings → Privacy and Security → Cookies and other site data → Manage cookies or See all cookies and site data
Mozilla Firefox
Options → Privacy & Security → Cookies and Site Data → Manage Data or Clear Data
Safari
Preferences → Privacy → Manage Website Data → Remove or Remove All
Microsoft Edge
Settings → Cookies and site permissions → Manage and delete cookies and site data
Opera
Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies → All cookies and site data
Mobile Browsers
Settings → Privacy → Clear browsing data or Site settings (varies by device and browser)
Opting Out of Third-Party Cookies
For Google reCAPTCHA and similar services:
- Visit the service provider's opt-out page
- Adjust your Google Ad Settings
- Use browser privacy extensions
- Enable "Do Not Track" in browser settings (limited effectiveness)
7. Impact of Disabling Cookies
If you choose to block or delete cookies, you may experience the following limitations:
Essential Cookies Disabled
- Unable to log into client account
- Shopping cart will not function
- Cannot complete checkout process
- May be logged out repeatedly
- Security features may not work properly
Functional Cookies Disabled
- Will need to log in every visit
- Settings and preferences not saved
- May see repeated notifications
- Less personalized experience
Analytics Cookies Disabled
- No impact on functionality
- Helps us improve less effectively
- Marketing becomes less targeted
8. Updates to This Cookies Policy
We may update this Cookies Policy periodically to reflect:
- Changes in cookie technologies we use
- Updates to regulatory requirements
- Improvements to our website functionality
- New features or services
Significant changes will be communicated through:
- Notice on our website homepage
- Email to registered users
- Updated "Last Modified" date at the top of this policy
9. Contact Information
If you have questions or concerns about our use of cookies or this policy, please contact:
Data Privacy Team
71 – Ata Turk Block, Garden Town, Lahore
Email: info@astron.com.pk
Phone: +92-42-35952334-6
Regional Offices:
Karachi: sales.khi@astron.com.pk
Islamabad: sales.isb@astron.com.pk
10. Regulatory Compliance
Our cookie practices are designed to comply with:
- Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016
- Personal Data Protection Bill (PDPB) 2023 principles
- E-commerce Policy 2.0 (2025-30) guidelines
- International best practices (GDPR-aligned where applicable)
11. Additional Resources
For more information about cookies and online privacy:
- All About Cookies: www.allaboutcookies.org
- Your Online Choices: www.youronlinechoices.com
- Network Advertising Initiative: www.networkadvertising.org
