Last Updated: [14/03/2025]

This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, how we use them on the website of the Digital Governance of the University of Crete (hereinafter referred to as the “University,” “we,” “our website”), and how you can manage them. This policy complies with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR) and the ePrivacy Directive (EU) 2002/58, as amended by Law 3471/2006.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, smartphone, tablet) when you visit a website. They allow the website to remember your preferences and improve your browsing experience and functionality.

2. Types of Cookies We Use

We use the following categories of cookies:

1. Essential Cookies

These cookies are necessary for the basic functionality of the website and cannot be disabled. Without them, certain features may not be available.

📌 Examples:

• User session identification
• Privacy preference management
• Secure login

Legal Basis: Legitimate Interest (Article 6(1)(f) GDPR)

1. Performance & Analytics Cookies

These cookies allow us to collect anonymous data on website usage to improve our services.

📌 Examples:

• Google Analytics
• Traffic analysis and user interactions

Legal Basis: Consent (Article 6(1)(a) GDPR)

1. Functionality Cookies

These cookies enable the website to remember user preferences (e.g., language, region) for a more personalized experience.

📌 Examples:

• Display settings storage
• User preference retention

Legal Basis: Consent (Article 6(1)(a) GDPR)

1. Advertising & Targeting Cookies

These cookies are used to display personalized ads based on your interests.

📌 Examples:

• Facebook Pixel
• Google Ads

Legal Basis: Consent (Article 6(1)(a) GDPR)

3. Managing and Disabling Cookies

Users can accept, reject, or modify cookie settings at any time via:

• Our website’s cookie management banner.
• Their browser settings (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge).

🔹 Steps for disabling cookies via browser settings:

1. Open your browser settings.
2. Navigate to privacy and security settings.
3. Select “Clear cookies” or “Block third-party cookies”.

⚠️ Note: Disabling some cookies may impact website functionality.

4. Cookie Retention Period

Cookie Type	Storage Duration
Essential Cookies	Until the end of the session
Performance & Analytics Cookies	6-12 months
Functionality Cookies	Up to 12 months
Advertising Cookies	Up to 12 months

After these periods, cookies are automatically deleted.

5. Third-Party Data Transfers

Some cookies belong to third-party providers (e.g., Google, Meta), which process data per their respective privacy policies.

📌 Examples of Providers:

• Google Analytics – Privacy Policy
• Facebook Pixel – Privacy Policy

The University of Crete is not responsible for third-party privacy practices.

6. Cookie Policy Modifications

This Cookie Policy may be updated periodically. Changes will be published on our website.

7. Contact Information

For any inquiries about this Cookie Policy or data protection matters, please contact us:

📧 Email: helpdesk@uoc.gr
📞 Phone: +30 2810 393312