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.