Why is it in the news?

• In the digital realm, cookies help in personalisation and user convenience that play a pivotal role in shaping any online experience.

About Cookies

Working of Cookies

• Cookies function as keys to a secure, members-only club.
• They remember login information, eliminating the need for repeated credentials.
• Cookies store user interactions on websites, enabling tailored recommendations and content.
• Online shopping carts powered by cookies retain items across sessions.
• Platforms like Facebook and Google use cookies to track online behavior for personalized ads.

Types of Cookies

• Session cookies are temporary and vanish when the browser is closed.
• Persistent cookies remain after the browsing session, remembering login info and preferences.
• Secure cookies are sent over encrypted connections for sensitive data.
• Third-party cookies come from domains other than the visited site, used for tracking and advertising.

Uses of Cookies

• Cookies act as digital ID cards for user authentication.
• They personalize experiences by recalling language and theme preferences.
• Function as persistent shopping carts, preserving items for future visits.
• Enable website owners to gather analytics data for enhancements.
• Play a crucial role in targeted advertising, aligning ads with user interests.

Challenges Associated

• Privacy concerns arise as cookies can track online behavior.
• Security risks exist when cookies are inadequately secured.
• Privacy regulations like GDPR and California Consumer Privacy Act require user consent for certain cookies.
• India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023 mandates explicit consent for personal data via cookies.
• Third-party cookies have led to debates and browser limitations.
• Excessive cookies can lead to a data deluge and slow down browsers.