This page is an entry in the Cyber Welfare Glossary: simple definitions to help you navigate the language of digital security. Browse the Glossary index to explore all the entries.
Introduction
Every time we surf the Internet, we leave traces.CookiesThey are one of the main tools used by websites to recognize us and remember our actions. Although they were created to simplify our online life, they can become a powerful tool fordigital surveillanceif not managed consciously. Understanding what they are and how to control them is a fundamental step in regaining control of your privacy.
Explanation: What Cookies Really Are
Cookies are small text files that a website saves on your computer or smartphone. Think of them as”memory notes”that the site delivers to your browser. There are different types:
- Technical Cookies: They are essential for the functioning of the site, such as those that keep your session active.
- Profiling Cookies: They are used to monitor your habits and tastes to send you targeted advertising.
- Third Party Cookies: They are created by sites other than the one you are visiting (e.g. Facebook or Google) to track you everywhere.
If left unchecked, this data may be shared with unauthorized third parties, posing a risk to your privacy.
Practical Scenario: The Online Shopping Cart
Imagine visiting an e-commerce site and adding a pair of shoes to your cart. You decide not to complete the purchase and close the site. When you return two days later, the shoes are still there.
This happens thanks to a persistent cookie that stores your activity. However, you’ll notice that shortly afterward, while browsing a social network, you’ll start seeing advertisements for those very shoes. In this case, athird-party cookiescommunicated your interests to an advertising platform, following you “off” the original site.
Common Mistake: Automatic Acceptance
The most common mistake is clicking on”Accept All”in the cookie banner only to make the message disappear quickly. This way, you consent to being profiled and tracked by dozens of different advertising companies.
Remember that sites are obliged to let you choose: spend 10 seconds to select only thenecessary cookiesIt’s a valuable investment in your privacy.
Safe Behavior: 3 Practical Actions
To limit surveillance and protect your data, adopt these habits:
- Customize your choices: When the cookie banner appears, click “Manage preferences” and enable only the necessary or technical ones.
- Clean your browser: Go to your browser settings (Chrome, Safari, Firefox) and periodically clear your history and stored cookies.
- Use private browsing: For sensitive searches or purchases, use “Incognito” mode, which automatically deletes cookies when you close the window.
Summary
Cookies are files that store your online activity to improve the experience of websites or for advertising purposes. They are essential for web services, but their accumulation can lead to a loss of privacy. Successful protection depends on rejecting unnecessary profiling cookies and regularly clearing your browsing data. Your defense begins with an informed choice about banner ads.
Question for Personal Reflection
Have you ever seen an ad for a product you’d only been looking for hours before? How much do you think this “digital stalking” influences your daily choices?
Explore Related Terms
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Recommended learning path: Online Privacy Course
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