Inside the Digital world of Cookies

Inside the Digital world of Cookies

Context: This article is based on the editorial covered recently in “The Hindu”

What are cookies?
• In the digital world, cookies are small pieces of data or code that are stored on a user’s device when they visit a website. They serve as a website’s memory, recognizing users upon their return, enabling features like automatic login and maintaining items in an online shopping cart.
• Cookies play a significant role in any online experience. They help in personalization and user convenience. For example, on websites like Amazon, cookies remember your previous interactions; from products you have browsed to purchases you have made. Armed with this knowledge, Amazon serves up tailored product recommendations and content, making your online shopping feel like a personalized boutique experience.

What are different types of cookies?
• Session Cookies: These are temporary cookies that are stored in your computer’s memory only during your browsing session. Once you close your browser, they vanish.
• Persistent Cookies: These stay on your device after your browsing session ends. Persistent cookies remember your login information, language preferences, and even the ads you have interacted with.
• Secure Cookies: These are only sent over encrypted connections, making them safer from prying eyes. Secure cookies are often used for sensitive data like login credentials.
• Third-party Cookies: These come from a domain other than the one you are visiting

Challenges:
• While cookies offer undeniable advantages, there is a flip side to considering privacy concerns and the potential for data misuse. For instance, inadequately secured cookies can create opportunities for cybercriminals to access and potentially steal personal information stored in cookies.
• Cookies could track your online behaviour, which, while often harmless, can sometimes encroach upon your digital privacy.
• Also, too many cookies can slow down your browser.
• Privacy regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) require websites to obtain user consent before deploying certain types of cookies.