Data You Give Us Directly
Search Queries
A name or place entered in a search tool is sent directly to the outside provider that operates it. That provider handles the query and supplies its response. We do not retain those search terms in our own records.
Messages and Contact Submissions
An email may be kept long enough to answer and administer the exchange. It remains within the operating team unless disclosure is required by law.
Data We Gather Automatically
When a page loads, the servers may receive routine technical details about that visit:
- Page-view dates and times
- Browser type and version
- Device category and operating system
- IP address assigned to the device
- Visited pages and approximate time on them
- A referring site, when one supplied the visit
Cookies and Analytics
Cookies are small files placed on a device. They help show aggregate patterns such as popular pages and where visits end. Analytics providers assist with that measurement. A browser can block cookies, although disabling them may change how some features behave.
What We Do With This Data
- Finding and repairing technical problems
- Maintaining site speed and availability
- Routing a search to the selected partner tool
- Measuring which content is useful or needs improvement
- Displaying advertising that may reflect visitor interests
No Criminal-Record Data on File
Albany County Criminal History does not compile, keep, or sell a database of personal criminal records. It publishes general routing information for the Albany County Sheriff, criminal court clerks, the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, and the New York State Sex Offender Registry. Visitor information is not assembled into third-party criminal files or consumer reports, and this site is not a consumer reporting agency under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Third-Party Search Partners
Outside companies operate the search boxes. Information submitted there is governed by the selected provider's privacy policy rather than this policy. Each provider controls its own retention and sharing practices, so review those terms before running a query.
Links to Other Websites
Links may lead to courts, the Sheriff, New York agencies, legal resources, or outside search services. Once a visitor leaves this site, the destination's policy controls. Review it before providing personal data.
Advertising providers may use their own systems to measure activity across sites and select ads. Their tracking is not operated by us.
Who Might See Your Data
Personal data is not sold. Limited information may be available to:
- Analytics providers that measure traffic and performance
- Search partners processing a query submitted to their tool
- Advertising networks serving material on the pages
- A government body or law-enforcement agency acting under a valid legal order
How We Protect Your Data
Reasonable security practices are used for information under our control. No internet system is completely secure, however, and a breach can never be ruled out.
Users Under 18
This service is intended for adults and does not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 18. A verified notice that a minor supplied information will be handled with a deletion request.
Your Data Rights
New York's Freedom of Information Law, Public Officers Law article 6, governs access to state and local agency records, while Executive Law section 837 limits DCJS criminal-history dissemination. Those laws do not turn this private site into a government record custodian. For data held here, you may:
- Request deletion of data tied to you
- Ask what personal information is on file
- Seek correction of inaccurate information
- Opt out where a processing choice is offered
Updates to This Policy
This policy may be revised as practices or legal duties change. A replacement takes effect when it is posted here with a new effective date.
Effective date: August 1, 2026