Privacy Policy

Overview

For site security and management purposes, all transactions with this server are collected for security and statistical purposes. The City computer system uses software programs, including Google Analytics (GA4) and Microsoft Clarity, to create summary statistics. These anonymized statistics help us assess what information is of most and least interest, determine technical design specifications, and identify system performance problem areas.

Website Analytics Usage

We are currently using these analytics tools to better understand user behavior as we undergo a website redesign. This information helps us prioritize popular content, address technical issues, and improve the overall user experience. 

Google Analytics 4 (GA4)

Important notes about our GA4 implementation:

• We do not engage with Google Signals data collection.

• No demographic data from users with ads personalization enabled is collected. 

• Basic usage statistics and technical data are collected automatically. 

• Data is used solely for website improvement and security purposes.

For complete details about GA4's data collection and privacy practices, please review:

• Google Analytics Privacy and Security

• Google Analytics Terms of Service

Data Privacy Management

We are prioritizing robust data preference management for website visitors on the new website. Until these enhanced controls are implemented, users can manage their data preferences through:

Browser Privacy Settings

You can control data collection in your browser:

• Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data

• Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data

• Safari: Settings > Privacy > Cookies and website data

• Edge: Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Cookies and site data

You can also use your browser's private/incognito browsing mode to prevent data collection during your session.

Analytics Opt-Out Tools

• Google Analytics Opt-Out Browser Add-on

• Browser cookie settings (detailed above)

Security Monitoring

For site security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users, this computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information, or otherwise cause damage. Except for authorized law enforcement investigations, no other attempts are made to identify individual users or their usage habits. Raw data logs are used solely for security and statistical purposes.

Third-Party Services and External Links

Our website contains links to external websites and services that are not operated by the City of Evanston. When you click these links, you will leave our website and your interactions will be governed by the privacy policies and terms of service of those third parties. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any external websites you visit through links on our site.

Users can opt out of the collection and use of information for ad targeting by:

• Visiting the Digital Advertising Alliance's Consumer Choice page.

• Managing Facebook advertising preferences.

• Following the instructions to opt out of interest-based ads from participating companies.

Legal Framework

Unauthorized attempts to upload information or change information on this service are strictly prohibited and may be punishable under:

• The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986

• The National Information Infrastructure Protection Act

• Illinois Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA)

Contact Information

If you have any questions or comments about the information presented here, please contact the City of Evanston.