Privacy Policy – Seattle SEO Marketing

Who we are

Our website address is: https://seattleseomarketing.com.

1. Introduction

Our Commitment to Your Privacy

At Seattle SEO Marketing, the understanding of privacy is paramount. This Privacy Policy serves to clarify how personal information is collected, utilized, shared, and safeguarded when individuals engage with the agency’s website, services, and various digital marketing activities. The agency is dedicated to maintaining transparency and handling data responsibly, adhering to applicable U.S. privacy laws and established best practices.

This policy is meticulously crafted to be straightforward and easily comprehensible, reflecting a core dedication to open communication with clients and website visitors. This approach to upfront and clear communication regarding data practices is not merely a legal obligation; it is a strategic element in cultivating client confidence. Proactively addressing privacy concerns from the outset helps establish Seattle SEO Marketing as a trustworthy entity, which is particularly vital for a marketing agency whose services inherently involve the handling of data. This positioning distinguishes the agency in a competitive market by signaling a “privacy-first” orientation.

Who We Are: Seattle SEO Marketing

Seattle SEO Marketing is a digital marketing agency based in Seattle, WA. The agency specializes in enhancing the online presence of brick-and-mortar businesses through a comprehensive suite of services. These services include Local SEO, Google Business Profile optimization, PPC advertising, Meta (Facebook/Instagram) ads, content marketing, and detailed analytics and reporting.

2. Information Collected

The collection of information by Seattle SEO Marketing falls into two primary categories: data voluntarily provided by individuals and data collected automatically through website interactions. This clear distinction is crucial for transparency and compliance, as each category carries different implications for user consent and data handling.

Personal Information Provided

Personal information is voluntarily provided when individuals complete forms on the agency’s website, subscribe to newsletters, request consultations, or engage in direct communication via email or telephone. This direct provision of information signifies a clear intent from the user regarding the data’s purpose.

The types of personal information collected may include:

Contact Information: Name, company name, email address, phone number, and physical address.
Inquiry Details: Specific information provided about business needs, marketing objectives, and other relevant details pertaining to a service inquiry.

This information is primarily gathered through interactive elements such as website contact forms, quote request forms, and direct correspondence.

Information Collected Automatically

Upon visiting the agency’s website, certain information about the user’s device and browsing activity is automatically collected. This automatic collection serves to understand how the site is utilized and to enhance the overall user experience.

Usage Data (e.g., IP addresses, browser type)

This category encompasses data such as the computer’s Internet Protocol (IP) address, browser type and version, the specific pages visited on the website, the date and time of the visit, the duration spent on those pages, unique device identifiers, and other diagnostic data.

The collection of IP addresses is a fundamental aspect of internet functionality, enabling web servers to identify the requesting device and transmit the necessary information, such as website files. While an IP address can indicate a general geographical location, for marketing purposes, this data is often anonymized. It is primarily used for analytics to discern overall traffic sources and user behavior patterns rather than identifying specific individuals.

Cookies and Tracking Technologies (e.g., Google Analytics, Meta Pixel)

The agency employs cookies and similar tracking technologies, including web beacons, tags, and scripts, to monitor activity on the website and retain specific information. These technologies are instrumental in comprehending user behavior, recalling preferences, and delivering more pertinent content and advertisements.

Cookies are small data files placed on a user’s device. For instance, Google Analytics utilizes first-party cookies to differentiate unique users and their sessions, gathering data points such as pageviews, events, and transactions. Ad pixels, like the Meta Pixel, are minute code snippets that track user interactions on the site, such as page views or form submissions. This tracking is crucial for measuring campaign performance and constructing audience segments for advertising purposes. The data collected via cookies can encompass user demographics (age, gender, interests), unique visitor counts, traffic sources, traffic channels, conversion data, device and browser information, and user engagement metrics.

The overarching purpose of collecting this data is to analyze website performance, optimize the user experience, and refine advertising efforts. The careful selection of collected data types, aligning with the principle of data minimization, contributes to a robust risk mitigation strategy. By gathering only information that is reasonably necessary and proportionate to the agency’s disclosed purposes, the potential for data breaches is reduced, and trust with users is enhanced.

3. How Information is Used

The information collected by Seattle SEO Marketing is utilized for various business purposes, all of which are directly aligned with the services provided and the interactions individuals have with the agency. The use of data consistently adheres to the purposes for which it was originally collected, or for compatible and clearly disclosed purposes. This adherence to purpose limitation is foundational, as it justifies why data is collected in the first place, builds user trust, and helps protect against claims of data misuse.

To Respond to Inquiries and Deliver Services

The primary application of personal information is to address questions, deliver requested services (such as Local SEO or PPC campaigns), manage client relationships, and fulfill contractual obligations. This encompasses using contact information to communicate regarding ongoing projects, provide updates, and offer comprehensive customer support.

To Manage and Optimize Advertising Campaigns

Collected data, including information derived from cookies and advertising platforms, is instrumental in the creation, management, and optimization of digital advertising campaigns for clients. This involves strategically targeting relevant audiences, meticulously measuring campaign performance, and continually enhancing ad effectiveness. This data provides critical insights into what resonates with potential customers, enabling the agency to achieve superior results for the businesses it serves.

For Marketing Communications (with consent)

With explicit consent, contact information may be utilized to disseminate marketing emails, newsletters, or promotional materials. These communications pertain to the agency’s services, industry insights, or special offers that may be of interest. Consent serves as a foundational pillar for these marketing activities. This means that marketing communications are not sent automatically but require specific user agreement, which is a direct response to compliance requirements under laws like CAN-SPAM and TCPA. This approach educates the user and sets clear expectations, thereby significantly reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties. Individuals always retain the option to opt out of these communications at any time.

To Analyze Performance and Enhance Services

Usage data and analytics information, often sourced from tools like Google Analytics, are employed to monitor and analyze trends, track website performance, gather valuable insights, and continuously improve the functionality and user experience of the website and services. This analytical process aids in identifying areas for enhancement, detecting technical issues, and ensuring that the services remain both effective and relevant.

4. Consent for Calls and Text Messages

Agreement to Be Contacted

When a phone number is provided through a form on the agency’s website (e.g., a contact form or a request for proposal), individuals are providing their prior express written consent to be contacted by Seattle SEO Marketing via phone call or text message (SMS/MMS) concerning their inquiry. This consent is specifically for communications directly related to the submitted inquiry and the agency’s services, and it is explicitly stated that providing this consent is not a prerequisite for purchasing services.

At the point of collection, clear disclosures are provided, informing individuals that they are agreeing to receive automated marketing messages from Seattle SEO Marketing, specifying the nature of these messages, and noting potential charges. The requirement for “prior express written consent” for telemarketing calls and text messages, particularly to mobile phones, represents a high bar for compliance under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). This detailed consent language serves as a proactive measure for risk mitigation, directly addressing common areas of TCPA litigation and helping to protect the agency from significant penalties, which can range from $500 to $1,500 per violation.

Individuals can revoke this consent at any time by replying “STOP” to any text message received from the agency, or by contacting the agency directly via email at [email protected]. Opt-out requests are honored promptly, typically within 10 business days, in accordance with TCPA requirements. This explicit opt-out mechanism is crucial for compliance and demonstrates a commitment to respecting user preferences.

Important Note on Messaging Rates

Standard message and data rates may apply to any calls or text messages sent or received. Individuals are advised to consult their mobile carrier for specific details regarding these charges.

5. How Information is Shared

No Sale of Personal Data

Seattle SEO Marketing maintains a strict policy: personal information is not sold to third parties. This commitment underscores the agency’s dedication to protecting individual data and preserving trust. This distinction between “sharing” and “selling” is particularly significant under privacy frameworks like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which grants consumers the right to opt out of the sale of their personal information. By explicitly stating that data is not sold, the policy manages user expectations and demonstrates adherence to the spirit of privacy laws aimed at preventing the unauthorized commercialization of data.

Sharing with Trusted Service Providers

Personal information may be shared with trusted third-party service providers who assist in the operation of the website, conduct business activities, or deliver services. These providers are contractually obligated to maintain the confidentiality of information and to use it exclusively for the specific purposes for which it is disclosed to them.

Examples of such service providers include:

Analytics Providers: Such as Google Analytics, which helps the agency understand website usage and performance.
Advertising Platforms: Including Google Ads and Meta (Facebook/Instagram), for the management and optimization of advertising campaigns.
CRM Systems: Used for managing client relationships and communications.
Email Marketing Services: Employed for sending newsletters and promotional communications, always with explicit consent.

To ensure compliance with data protection laws and specific instructions, Data Processing Agreements (DPAs) are established with these service providers. These legally binding contracts delineate how personal data should be shared, processed, and secured. The inclusion of DPAs highlights a sophisticated approach to data governance, demonstrating that Seattle SEO Marketing, as the data controller, actively fulfills its legal responsibility to ensure that its vendors (data processors) handle data securely and compliantly. This practice is crucial for reducing the agency’s liability and enhancing its reputation for trustworthiness.

Legal Compliance and Business Transfers

Personal information may be disclosed if required by law or in response to valid requests from public authorities, such as a court order or government agency. In the event of a merger, acquisition, or asset sale, personal data may be transferred as a business asset. In such circumstances, notice will be provided before personal data is transferred and becomes subject to a different Privacy Policy.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that are placed on a user’s device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when they visit a website. Their widespread use facilitates more efficient website operation and provides valuable information to site owners. Cookies enable websites to remember user preferences, track browsing behavior, and deliver personalized experiences.

How Cookies Are Used (Google Analytics, Ad Pixels)

Seattle SEO Marketing utilizes cookies and similar technologies for several distinct purposes:

Analytics: To gain an understanding of how visitors interact with the website, identify the most popular pages, and analyze user navigation patterns. This information is critical for improving the website’s design and content. For this purpose, Google Analytics is employed, which collects data such as the number of users, session statistics, approximate geolocation, and browser and device information.
Advertising: To deliver relevant advertisements to users on other websites and social media platforms, based on their interests and interactions with the agency’s site. This involves tools like Google Ads and Meta (Facebook/Instagram) ad pixels. These pixels track actions such as form submissions or page visits, which helps measure the effectiveness of ad campaigns and build targeted audience segments.
Functionality: To remember user preferences and settings, thereby ensuring a consistent and personalized experience on the site.
Security: To aid in protecting against fraud and abuse, and to bolster the overall security of the website.

The evolving landscape of cookie consent and measurement necessitates a clear explanation of how these tools function and the implications of user choices. The agency’s approach, including the use of Google Consent Mode, demonstrates an adaptation to privacy-enhancing technologies, a significant trend in digital marketing. This also addresses compliance requirements, such as those under CCPA, for disclosing how personal information is collected and providing users with options to opt out of targeted advertising.

Your Choices Regarding Cookies

Individuals possess the right to decide whether to accept or reject cookies. While most web browsers automatically accept cookies, users can typically modify their browser settings to decline cookies if preferred. It is important to note, however, that blocking or deleting cookies may limit the full functionality of the website’s features.

Managing Cookies in Your Browser

Cookies can generally be managed through a browser’s settings. This functionality allows users to delete existing cookies, block all cookies, or establish preferences for specific websites. For users of Google Chrome, cookie preferences can be managed by navigating to

chrome://settings/cookies, where options exist to delete browsing data and send “Do not track” requests.

Opting Out of Personalized Ads

Individuals can opt out of personalized advertising from participating advertisers by utilizing industry-specific tools provided by advertising groups. It is important to opt out on each device and browser used to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Google Consent Mode

Seattle SEO Marketing utilizes Google Consent Mode , a mechanism that communicates a user’s cookie consent status to Google. This ensures that Google Analytics and Ads tags adjust their behavior in accordance with user choices. If consent for analytics or advertising cookies is denied, Google tags will transmit cookieless pings instead of storing cookies. This respects user privacy while still allowing for some aggregated, non-identifying measurement. This approach reflects a balancing act between the agency’s need for analytics to track performance and optimize campaigns, and the user’s demand for privacy. By explaining this, the policy demonstrates sophistication in navigating privacy challenges while still striving for effective marketing outcomes.

Types of Cookies Used by Seattle SEO Marketing

Cookie Type	Purpose	Examples of Tools/Cookies	How to Manage/Opt-Out
Analytics	Measures website traffic and user behavior to improve site design and content.	Google Analytics (_ga)	Browser settings, Google Analytics opt-out add-on
Advertising	Delivers personalized ads based on user interests and tracks ad campaign performance.	Google Ads, Meta Pixel, NID, IDE	Browser settings, Ad industry opt-out tools (e.g., Digital Advertising Alliance)
Functionality	Remembers user preferences and settings for a consistent website experience.	NID, PREF (Google)	Browser settings
Security	Helps protect against fraud and abuse, ensuring website security.	SID, HSID (Google)	Browser settings

7. Your Privacy Rights

Seattle SEO Marketing respects individual privacy rights and is dedicated to providing control over personal information. Depending on geographical location, individuals may possess specific rights regarding their data. The growing importance of state-specific privacy laws in the U.S. is recognized, as the legal landscape is a complex patchwork. Explicitly addressing frameworks like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) signals a commitment to higher privacy standards, which are increasingly expected by consumers.

Accessing, Correcting, or Deleting Personal Data

Individuals have the right to request access to the personal data held about them, to request corrections to any inaccurate information, or to request the deletion of their personal data from the agency’s systems. Verifiable requests will be responded to promptly and free of charge, typically within the timeframes mandated by applicable laws. To exercise these rights, individuals are directed to contact the agency using the information provided in the “Contact Us” section. Fulfilling these user rights necessitates robust internal data governance processes, including the ability to verify requests, locate data across various systems (website, CRM, analytics platforms), and accurately fulfill deletion or access requests. This implies the need for diligent data mapping and retention policies to efficiently manage and delete data when requested.

Opting Out of Marketing Communications

Individuals can opt out of receiving marketing emails from the agency at any time by utilizing the “unsubscribe” link provided within the emails or by contacting the agency directly. For text messages, opting out can be achieved by replying “STOP” to any message received. Opt-out requests will be honored within 10 business days.

California Privacy Rights (CCPA)

For California residents, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants specific rights concerning personal information. Seattle SEO Marketing fully complies with the CCPA.

These rights include:

Right to Know: The right to request disclosure of the categories and specific pieces of personal information collected, the sources from which it is collected, the purposes for its collection, and the categories of third parties with whom it is shared.
Right to Delete: The right to request the deletion of personal information collected, subject to certain exceptions.
Right to Opt-Out of Sale/Sharing: The right to direct a business that sells or shares personal information not to sell or share that information. As previously stated, Seattle SEO Marketing does not sell personal information.
Right to Non-Discrimination: The right not to receive discriminatory treatment for exercising CCPA rights.

To exercise California privacy rights, individuals should contact [email protected]. Identity verification may be required before fulfilling such requests.

Summary of Your California Privacy Rights (CCPA)

Right	Description	How to Exercise
Right to Know	Request categories and specific pieces of personal information collected, sources, purposes, and third parties shared with.	Contact [email protected]
Right to Delete	Request deletion of personal information collected, subject to exceptions.	Contact [email protected]
Right to Opt-Out of Sale/Sharing	Direct a business not to sell or share personal information. (Seattle SEO Marketing does not sell personal information.)	Contact [email protected]
Right to Non-Discrimination	Not to receive discriminatory treatment for exercising CCPA rights.	Contact [email protected]

8. Data Security

Measures to Protect Information

The security of personal data is of utmost importance to Seattle SEO Marketing. A variety of administrative, technical, and physical security measures are implemented, specifically designed to protect personal information from unauthorized access, use, alteration, and disclosure. Data security is recognized as a cornerstone of privacy compliance and essential for maintaining the agency’s business reputation. For a digital marketing agency, handling client and customer data is central to its operations, and a data breach could have severe consequences.

These measures include, but are not limited to:

Data Encryption: Sensitive data is encrypted both in transit and at rest.
Access Controls: Access to personal data is restricted to only those employees, contractors, and service providers who require the information to process it for the agency and who are bound by stringent contractual confidentiality obligations.
Regular Audits and Monitoring: Regular data audits are performed to monitor the type of information stored and its purpose, ensuring that only necessary data is retained. The agency’s infrastructure is also continuously monitored for potential vulnerabilities.
Secure Systems: Secure servers and systems are utilized for data storage and processing.

While commercially acceptable means are employed to protect personal data, it is acknowledged that no method of transmission over the Internet or electronic storage is 100% secure. Therefore, absolute security cannot be guaranteed. The security measures described imply an ongoing commitment rather than a static state. Regular audits and staying current on regulations are continuous processes, reflecting the dynamic nature of cyber threats and evolving privacy laws. This proactive stance is vital for long-term compliance and fostering client confidence.

9. Changes to This Privacy Policy

The Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. Any changes will be communicated by posting the revised Privacy Policy on this page and updating the “Last Updated” date at the top of the policy. Additionally, individuals will be informed via email and/or a prominent notice on the website prior to the changes becoming effective, and the “effective date” at the top of this Privacy Policy will be updated accordingly.

Individuals are advised to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any modifications. Changes to this Privacy Policy become effective when they are posted on this page. This section acknowledges the dynamic nature of privacy law, which is a complex and evolving landscape. The commitment to notifying users of changes is a transparency requirement and a best practice, ensuring ongoing compliance and trust by signaling that Seattle SEO Marketing is aware of and adapts to the shifting legal environment.

10. Contact Us

For any questions regarding this Privacy Policy, the agency’s data practices, or to exercise privacy rights, please contact Seattle SEO Marketing:

By email: [email protected]