A Cookie is used to record what you are doing on the website and record it so websites can be better refined. However some cookies follow you to other websites and record data with plug ins being used to block tracking
Cookie types
Session – A session cookie only exists on a website whilst the user is reading or navigating the website these are usually removed when the browser is closed.
Persistent – These cookies have a expiry date meaning that they are computer specific these can often track you to other websites and collect data
HttpOnly – These are inaccessible through java script and enable a more secure cookie however they still harvest data and follow you.
Secure – HTTPS is heavily encrypted meaning that eavesdropping and other methods of theft are hard to conduct.
Third-party – Third party cookies are set up where they don’t use your domains address bar this means the cookies might not be affiliated with the website you are visiting.
The dangers
The dangers of cookies is two aspects the first of which is what websites you visit and whether they are tracking you elsewhere. An example of this would be persistent cookies that are enabled from suspicious malware. Eavesdropping is the other main aspect around this this is where someone listens in and collect the data from a cookie.
Not all the same
Not all cookies are bad they are a place where data from a browser is stored. They store data such as preferences and information from previous visits such as links that have been pressed etc. Allowing quicker address form filling in for websites and increase operating speed for websites as the information is kept client side.
Cookie practice
Reading consent for each website is a good method to prevent enabling large amounts of cookies to be following you and taking up storage space. However we understand this is not always realistic for everyone so having software and checks such as plugins to restrict cookies access and remove information is quite useful.
More detail around cookies is available here.
Last weeks article on VPN use is available here.
