Privacy Policy
Last updated: June 2026
This page explains what information gets collected when you visit The Tick Guide, how it's used, and what choices you have. Nothing here is complicated on purpose, I want it to actually be readable.
Advertising and Cookies
This site uses Google AdSense to display ads. Google and its partners use cookies to serve ads based on a visitor's prior visits to this site or other sites on the internet. This allows Google and its partners to show ads that may be more relevant to you based on your browsing activity.
You can opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google's Ads Settings. You can also opt out of a third-party vendor's use of cookies for personalized advertising by visiting www.aboutads.info.
Third-party vendors, including Google, may also use cookies to serve ads based on a user's prior visits to this website or other websites on the internet.
What Information Is Collected
Like most websites, this site may automatically collect certain information through standard web server logs and analytics tools, including:
- IP address and general location (city or region level, not precise location)
- Browser type and device type
- Pages visited and time spent on the site
- Referring website or search terms that led you here
This site does not require account creation, so no name, email, or personal profile information is collected unless you choose to send it to me directly through the contact page. If you email me, I'll have whatever information you included in that email, nothing more.
Third-Party Links
This site links out to government sources (CDC, HHS), university research programs (TickEncounter at URI, Ohio State), and tick testing labs. Those are independent websites with their own privacy policies, and I have no control over how they handle visitor data once you click through. I'd encourage you to check their policies if you're curious.
Children's Privacy
This site is not directed at children under 13, and I don't knowingly collect personal information from children. If you're a parent and believe your child has provided personal information through this site, contact me and I'll address it.
Your Choices
Most browsers let you block or delete cookies through their settings. Doing so may affect how ads are displayed but won't prevent you from reading the content on this site. You can also use the opt-out links above to limit personalized advertising specifically from Google and its partners.
Changes to This Policy
If this policy changes, I'll update the date at the top of this page. Continuing to use the site after a change means you've accepted the updated policy.
Questions
If you have questions about this policy or how your information is handled, reach out through the contact page.