Everything you need to know about browser cookies
Fri Jul 29 2022 12:04 AM Last updated on: Fri Jul 29 2022 12:09 AM
Allow cookies or not? Read on to learn everything you need to know about browser cookies. Illustration: Zarif Faiaz
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Allow cookies or not? Read on to learn everything you need to know about browser cookies. Illustration: Zarif Faiaz
As Internet users, we often see a pop-up banner asking for consent to the use of cookies in daily Internet browsing. However, in most cases, we cannot make an informed decision because we do not know what a cookie is, its function, classification, security protocols, etc. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about browser cookies.
What is a cookie ?
Simply put, cookies are small text files that store small pieces of data used to identify your computer network. For example, when you visit a website, cookies are exchanged between your web browser and that website’s server. Your device’s browser stores these cookies.
For all the latest news, follow the Daily Star’s Google News channel. The server can create data in a cookie as soon as you connect to it. An anonymous identifier (ID) specific to you and your device is used to identify this data. Your computer and the network server exchange cookies. When they do, the server scans the ID and knows exactly what data to give you.
Are there different types of cookies?
There are different types of cookies, each with unique functionality. A website uses the type of cookie that suits its type of website and that it needs the most.
Cookies can be categorized as session cookies or persistent cookies depending on when they expire. Session cookies expire when you disconnect from the Internet or close your browser, although some may be retained temporarily. On the contrary, after you exit the browser, persistent cookies continue to exist on your device until they expire or are deleted.
Depending on who sets them, cookies can also be classified as first-party or third-party cookies. First-party cookies are owned by the website that set them; for example, they often provide authentication or memory for user preferences. Cookies from websites or organizations other than the website owner are called third-party cookies. Depending on their purpose, these cookies can also be classified as strictly necessary, essential or not necessary.
What are cookies used for?
Websites generally use cookies to improve the user experience. For example, without cookies you would have to log in again each time you left a website or, if you accidentally closed the browser, rebuild your shopping cart. Therefore, cookies are a crucial part of using the Internet.
On the other hand, advertisers can use cookies for invasive marketing activities. For example, they can keep tabs on your purchases and shopping locations. This allows marketers to learn more about individuals and target them with advertisements relevant to their interests. Also, since the advertiser uses the cookie ID to track users, you may notice that the same ad keeps showing up as you navigate between websites. Since these companies already know a lot about consumers without asking them, this could infringe on your right to privacy.
Are cookies safe?
In general, cookies do not contain viruses or malware that could endanger your computer. They also do not have any executable code that can be executed and cannot obtain any other private information on the customer’s device. Most of the time, cookies do not include any personally identifiable data, but web servers can misuse them to monitor users. Because of this, cookies have become questionable over time.
A cookie stores your information in an anonymous user ID. Additionally, since your device may be monitored through cookies, you may be exposed to password compromise or privacy breach on unsafe websites. Because not all cookies are created equal, and because not everyone has the same intent, some websites are not as secure as others. Trusted and known websites of reputable organizations or news portals, in most cases, tend to be safer as they are well regulated in most cases.
Should I allow cookies?
Most of the time, cookies improve web browsing, but they should always be used responsibly. For example, allowing cookies may provide you with a more seamless or personalized experience. However, this may come at the expense of your peace of mind in terms of privacy or intrusive advertisements while browsing. As such, it is up to you to decide whether you want to allow cookies on certain websites.
Keep in mind that you are not required to accept cookies and in most cases you have the option not to accept them. Some websites may prevent access if you refuse to accept their cookies. In such specific circumstances, you may choose to disclose only certain types of information. Additionally, there are open source browsers that protect cookies such as Mozilla that you can consider. As a general rule, it is generally safer to delete all unwanted and unnecessary cookies after a certain period of time. This will allow you a better browsing experience.