Interne Cookies

Understanding Internet Cookies

Internet cookies, also known simply as cookies, are small files which are stored on a user’s computer.
They are designed to hold a modest amount of data specific to a particular client and website, which can be accessed either by the web server or the client computer.
This allows the server to deliver a page tailored to a particular user, remembering information like login details, preferences, or items in shopping baskets.
Internet cookies can be necessary for websites to function properly; without them, websites have no memory.

Types of Internet Cookies

Session cookies - Temporary cookies which are deleted when the user closes their browser. These mainly contain information about page activities so users can easily pick up where they left off.
Persistent cookies - These remain on user’s computer even after closing the browser, until deleted or they reach their expiry date. These remember user actions and preferences over a period of time.
Third-party cookies - Cookies that are installed by websites other than the one the user is currently visiting, primarily used for tracking and online-advertising purposes.

Security and Privacy Concerns

Cookies themselves are not harmful, but they do have privacy implications as they track user activity.
Some cookies, like third-party tracking cookies, can be used for potentially invasive procedures like tracking user behaviour across multiple websites.
User settings can be changed to block these third-party cookies, improving privacy at the potential cost of convenience and usability.
Many websites may not function properly or at all without the use of session or persistent cookies.

Cookie Laws and Regulations

In the UK and EU, website owners must get permission from visitors to store or retrieve any information on a computer or any other web-connected device, like a smartphone. This is known as cookie law.
Information about a website’s use of cookies must be provided clearly and comprehensively to users, and they must consent to cookies being stored on their device.
The only exception to this is where the cookie is essential for providing an online service. This includes, for example, cookies used to remember goods a user wishes to buy when they add goods to their online basket or proceed to the checkout on a website.

Remember, understanding how cookies work, their categories, and their implications can help in understanding broader topics within security and data management.