In the world of the web, cookies play a crucial role. These small data files are essential for enhancing the user experience and ensuring the smooth operation of websites. This article explores what cookies are, how they work and why they're important for website owners.
A cookie is a small text file stored on the user's browser by a website· It contains information about the user's navigation, such as language preferences, items added to the shopping cart or login sessions· Cookies can be created and read by the website itself or by third-party services integrated into the site.
When a user visits a website, the site sends a cookie to the user's browser· The browser stores this cookie on the user's computer hard disk· On each subsequent visit to the same site, the browser sends the cookie back to the site's server· This enables the site to recognize the user and personalize his or her experience based on the information previously collected.
There are several [types of cookies],(https://www.zenarmor.com/docs/network-security-tutorials/what-is-cookie#what-are-the-types-of-cookies) each with a specific function:
Session cookies: These cookies are temporary and are deleted when the user closes the browser· They are used to manage browsing sessions and keep the user logged in.
Persistent cookies: Unlike session cookies, persistent cookies remain on the user's browser until a set expiration date· They are used to remember user preferences and login information.
Third-party cookies: These cookies are not exclusive to the website where they were initially created· For user monitoring and customization reasons, third-party cookies provide access to organizations other than the originating website.
Zombie cookies : Zombie cookies" are a particular type of cookie that persist even after the user has tried to delete them· They can reinstall themselves automatically from backups stored elsewhere, often without the user's consent, making them difficult to remove permanently.
Flash cookies : Flash cookies are special cookies that work with Adobe Flash and are not conventional browser or HTTP cookies· They were used to store user information more permanently than traditional cookies· However, with the decline in Flash usage, these cookies are no longer commonly used.
Personalized user experience: Cookies memorize user preferences and behaviors for personalized browsing.
Improved site performance: By analyzing user interaction, owners can identify areas for improvement and optimize site performance.
Session management: Session cookies manage user connections, ensuring smooth and secure browsing.
Targeted advertising: Advertising cookies deliver relevant ads based on users' interests and browsing habits, making campaigns more effective.
Analysis and tracking: Web analysis tools use cookies to track user behavior and provide detailed reports, helping to make informed decisions.
With privacy concerns on the rise, several regulations frame the use of cookies. The RGPD in Europe and the CCPA in the United States require sites to obtain user consent before storing cookies.
In Asia, similar laws exist:
Japan: APPI law requires user information and consent.
Singapore: The PDPA imposes strict rules on the management of personal data.
South Korea: PIPA requires user consent prior to data collection.
Indonesia: PDP law requires companies to inform and obtain user consent for the use of cookies.
Websites must provide clear information on the use of cookies and allow users to manage their preferences· Numerous cookie management solutions are available to help site owners comply with these regulations.
Cookies are indispensable tools for modern websites· They enhance the user experience, optimize site performance, and enable effective targeted advertising· However, it is crucial for site owners to comply with current regulations and protect users' privacy by obtaining their informed consent to the use of cookies· European, American and Asian regulations demonstrate the growing importance of personal data protection on a global scale.
Want to enhance user experience and optimize your website's performance with effective cookie management? We're here to help! Get in touch now to learn more and ensure your site complies with global privacy regulations!
LIFE’S ONLY DIRECTION, FORWARD.
