Most of us after logging in to a site are greeted with, the ‘Accept all cookies?’ question.
More often, we blindly click yes so that we can go about our business.
But do we care to ask ourselves, what will the cookies do? Are they safe? And what are cookies in the first place?
It is this ignorance that can cost you later.
Cookies are essentially information collectors and trackers in the form of small text files stored on your browser by the sites you visit.
While some are useful, others might be harmful.
A cookie saved on your browser makes it easy so you do not have to re-enter your login information every time you visit one of your favourite websites.
That is why when you clear cookies on your history, you mostly have to re-enter your passwords again every time you log in.
Cookies also remember your shopping preferences so that you get a personalized experience when you visit the website.
That is why you search for something like a house on a site, and then boom, your Facebook or Instagram feed is full of house options and all.
However, while giving you a personalized experience, others go far as tracking how you use a website, how often you go there, your IP address, your phone number, what types of things you look at and buy, and other information you may not want to share.
When can you accept cookies?
Always remember once you chose “yes”, you have given the company permission to use your information as they see fit without the worry of being sued.
Some websites give you the option of “later” you can click that option as most websites will work just fine without collecting your information.
For others, you have no option but to click yes. You can always read through their terms before accepting.
It is also important to look out for unencrypted websites; these websites will have an unlocked lock icon by the web address, especially if you are using public Wi-fi.
Hackers may use this to collect information; instead, always opt to use Incognito mode while scrolling for something.
Third-party cookies
If the cookie-consent pop-up mentions third-party cookies, always click “decline.”
This is because accepting gives the website the right to sell your browsing behaviour to a data broker.
To ensure safety, go into your browser and choose to allow only required cookies or “first-party” cookies.
If you are afraid that you have already accepted cookies on websites where you would not want your information gathered, go into your browser and use the “clear cookies” option.
Stay safe on the internet!
