WHEN TO ACCEPT THEM
As the holiday season approaches, we’re excited to bake cookies. But did you know your computer has its own kind of cookies? Let’s explore digital cookies and when to accept them, all while enjoying the festive spirit of holiday baking!
WHAT ARE DIGITAL COOKIES?
Digital cookies are small text files stored on your computer by websites. They serve different purposes, from enhancing your browsing experience to tracking online activity.
- Session Cookies: Temporary cookies that expire once you close your browser —helpful during a single browsing session.
- Persistent Cookies: These remain on your device even after you close your browser, storing preferences for future visits.
- First-Party Cookies: Set by the website you’re visiting, they improve your experience by remembering settings and preferences.
- Third-Party Cookies: Set by domains other than the one you’re on, these cookies often track your habits across sites for targeted ads.
WHEN TO ACCEPT COOKIES
Deciding which cookies to accept can be as tricky as choosing which cookies to bake! Here’s a guide:
- Essential Cookies: Always accept cookies necessary for the website to function properly, like login details— similar to essential baking ingredients.
- Functional Cookies: These remember choices like language or layout preferences, enhancing your experience — like adding a pinch of spice to your cookie dough.
- Performance Cookies: These collect anonymous data to improve website functionality. Accepting them can enhance your browsing experience— much like tweaking a recipe.
- Advertising Cookies: Be cautious with third-party cookies used for advertising. They track your behavior, so decline them if privacy is a concern— like passing on a cookie you don’t like.
HOW TO MANAGE COOKIES
You manage cookies through your browser. Think of it like deciding who gets their hands on your cookie jar.
- Browser Settings: Block or delete cookies to manage what gets stored on your device.
- Cookie Banners: Read through cookie consent banners and customize your preferences.
- Privacy Extensions: Use browser extensions to block unwanted cookies and trackers.
This holiday season, be sure to manage both your baked treats and digital cookies wisely!
Originally published in the December 2024 Customer Connections Newsletter
