1. **What are cookies?**
A cookie is a small file, consisting of letters and numbers, which will be stored on your computer, mobile device, or other user equipment used to access the internet. The cookie is installed via a request sent by a web page's server to the browser (e.g., Internet Explorer, Chrome) and is completely passive (it does not contain software programs, viruses, or spyware, and does not have access to information from the user’s hardware).
2. **What are cookies used for?**
These files enable the recognition of the user’s device and the display of content in a relevant way, adapted to the user’s preferences. Cookies provide a pleasant experience for users while navigating the internet.
3. **What types of cookies do we use?**
We use two types of cookies – session and fixed cookies. The latter are temporary files that remain on the user’s device until the session ends or the browser is closed. Fixed cookies remain on the user’s device for a period defined by the cookie or until manually deleted by the user.
4. **Do cookies contain personal data?**
Cookies themselves do not require personal data to function and generally do not identify internet users. Any personal data collected via cookies is encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.
5. **Deleting cookies**
Generally, applications used to access web pages allow cookies to be stored by default. These settings can be changed so that the automatic management of cookies is blocked or the user is notified every time cookies are sent to their device. Blocking cookies may affect the functionality of some web pages.
6. **Why are cookies important for the internet?**
Cookies are central to the efficient functioning of the internet, helping to tailor the content and services to the user’s preferences. Disabling cookies may make certain websites unusable.
7. **Security and privacy**
Cookies are NOT viruses! They are text files, not executable programs. However, they can be exploited for negative purposes, such as tracking user preferences and browsing history. Most browsers offer privacy settings that allow the user to manage cookies effectively.
Cookies can still be used for negative purposes. Since they store information about user preferences and browsing history, both on a specific site and across many other websites, cookies can be exploited as a form of spyware. Many anti-spyware programs are unaware of this and may regularly flag cookies for removal during anti-virus or anti-spyware scans.
Browsers typically include privacy settings that offer different levels of acceptance for cookies, their expiration periods, and automatic deletion after a site has been visited.
Other security aspects related to cookies: Since protecting personal data is very important and represents a fundamental right of every internet user, it is recommended to be aware of potential issues that cookies can create. Cookies constantly send information back and forth between the browser and the website. If a hacker or unauthorized person intercepts the data during this transmission, the information contained in the cookies may be compromised.
In rare cases, this could happen if the browser connects to the server using an unencrypted network (for example, a wireless network without a password).
Another type of cookie-based attack involves incorrect cookie settings on the server. If a website does not require the browser to use only encrypted channels, hackers can exploit this vulnerability to trick browsers into sending information through unprotected channels. The hackers then use this information to gain unauthorized access to certain websites. It is crucial to be careful when choosing the most appropriate personal data protection measures.
Tips for safe and responsible browsing with cookies:
Due to their flexibility and the fact that most widely visited sites use cookies, they are almost unavoidable. Disabling cookies may prevent you from accessing the most commonly used sites, such as YouTube, Gmail, Yahoo, and others. Below are some tips to help ensure safe browsing with the use of cookies:
Customize your browser's cookie settings to create the right level of protection.
If you are comfortable with cookies and are the only one using the computer, you can set longer expiration terms for your browsing history and access to personal data.
If you share your computer with someone else, you may want to configure the browser to delete personal browsing data each time you close it.
Install and maintain anti-spyware programs, as many can detect and prevent cookie-related attacks.
Ensure your browser is always up-to-date. Many cookie-based attacks exploit vulnerabilities in outdated browsers.
Cookies are everywhere, and avoiding them may prevent access to some of the best and largest websites. With a clear understanding of how they operate and the benefits they offer, you can take necessary security measures to browse confidently. Disabling cookies may render some websites unusable or difficult to visit, and it doesn’t mean you will stop seeing online ads.
All modern browsers offer the ability to change cookie settings, usually found under "options" or the "preferences" menu. You can also use the links below or the browser's help function to find more details:
Cookie settings in Internet Explorer
Cookie settings in Firefox
Cookie settings in Chrome
Cookie settings in Safari