What The Tech : Explaining Cookies

CHARLOTTE, N.C.-  We all love cookies. But not all cookies are the sweet treats we enjoy with a glass of milk.
In the digital realm, website cookies play a crucial role in our online experiences. So, when you encounter that familiar pop-up asking whether you accept cookies, what should you do?

Let’s dive into the world of cookies and explore the choices you have.

When you visit a website for the first time, you’re likely to encounter a pop-up notification about cookies. But what exactly are these mysterious bits of code?

● Cookies are small text files that websites leave on your computer or device. They serve various purposes, from enhancing convenience to enabling personalized experiences.

● Convenience: Ever logged into a website and found yourself still logged in the next day? That’s thanks to cookies. They remember your session, allowing you to pick up where you left off.

● Advertising: Cookies also play a role in targeted advertising. If you’ve ever shopped for shoes online, you’ve probably noticed shoe ads following you around on other sites, social media, and even in your email inbox. These are the digital equivalent of leaving “cookie crumbs” behind.

So, should you accept cookies?

Here’s what you need to consider:
1. Essential Cookies: Some cookies are necessary for the website to function properly.
Without them, you might not be able to view the site at all. These essential cookies are like the basic ingredients in a cookie recipe—you can’t skip them.

2. Non-Essential Cookies: These cookies are optional. They include marketing cookies (which track your preferences and show you relevant ads) and social media cookies (which allow you to share content on social platforms). You have the choice to decline these.

3. The Bargain Hunt: Imagine you were shopping for shoes, and a cookie led you to a fantastic bargain. Some people appreciate personalized ads based on their interests. If that’s you, accepting non-essential cookies might be worthwhile.

4. The Sketchy Side: Not all cookies are created equal. Avoid accepting cookies from sketchy websites that lack encryption. How can you tell? Look for the icon next to the search bar—secure sites have a padlock symbol.

5. Third-Party Cookies: These come from external sources (not the website you’re currently on). Rejecting third-party cookies is a smart move because you don’t always know what those third parties do with your information.

Reputable websites generally handle cookies responsibly.
However, changes are afoot:
● Safari and Firefox have already banned third-party cookies.
● Google plans to follow suit in the coming year.

So, the next time you encounter that cookie pop-up, consider your options. Whether you’re
protecting your privacy or hunting for bargains, your choice matters in the digital cookie jar