Information You Provide
Search Entries
A name, location, or similar term entered into a search box is sent to the third-party provider that operates that search service. We do not store or log those search terms on our own systems. The provider’s terms and privacy notice govern its handling of the query.
Messages
If a visitor sends an email or another direct message, we keep the information needed to respond and administer the exchange. It is not shared outside the organization except when disclosure is required by a valid legal process.
Automatic Technical Data
Like most websites, the site and its service providers may receive routine technical information when a page is requested.
- Internet Protocol address and broad network information.
- Browser name, version, and language settings.
- Device type and operating-system information.
- Pages viewed, approximate time on a page, and referring page where available.
- Request dates, times, and diagnostic information used to operate the service.
Cookies
Cookies and similar tools may be used to understand site traffic and operation. A visitor may block or remove cookies through browser controls, although some functions may then operate differently.
How Information Is Used
Collected information may be used to maintain the site, process a search handoff, understand which records-reference content is useful, diagnose technical problems, and show advertising that may be based on general interests. It may also be used to respond to a message or meet a legal obligation.
External Services and Links
The site links to public offices, including Dakota County custody and records pages, city agencies, Minnesota courts, the Minnesota DOC, and outside search tools. A separate privacy policy applies once a visitor leaves this site. We do not control another organization’s content, uptime, data practices, or record classifications.
Advertising partners may collect activity across websites through their own systems for interest-based advertising. Their practices are governed by their own notices and controls, not this Privacy Notice.
Parties That May Receive Data
We do not sell personal information. Limited information can reach the following categories when needed for the purposes described above.
- Search partners that receive a submitted query.
- Analytics providers that help measure and maintain site performance.
- Advertising networks that serve or measure advertising.
- Government or law-enforcement authorities when a valid legal order requires disclosure.
Security Practices
Reasonable administrative and technical measures are used to protect information in our control. No internet-connected service can promise complete security, however, and use of the site does not create a guarantee against unauthorized access, loss, or disclosure.
Visitors Under Eighteen
The site is intended for adults and does not knowingly collect personal information from people under 18. If a parent, guardian, or young person believes such information was submitted, contact us so it can be reviewed for deletion where appropriate.
Your Information Choices
A visitor may ask about personal information held by this site, request correction of inaccurate contact information, request deletion where appropriate, or object to particular processing. Browser controls can also limit cookies. These choices do not control public records held by Dakota County or another government custodian. Requests for government data are governed separately by Minnesota’s Data Practices Act, including Minnesota Statutes section 13.03.
Changes to This Notice
We may revise this Privacy Notice as site operations, providers, or legal requirements change. The current version will be posted here with its updated effective date. Continued use after a change means the revised notice applies.