The average U.S. household now owns not five, not even ten, but a staggering 22 connected devices. That’s a decrease from 25 gadgets back in 2021, but it still proves that the internet is crucial to consumers.

However, just as vital to internet users is website speed. Fortunately, web browsing has become faster and more enjoyable, thanks to cookies.

But what exactly are these so-called website cookies? What do they do, and why do sites even use them? Most importantly, are they safe?

We’ll answer all those questions in the guide below, so keep reading.

What Are Website Cookies?

Website cookies, also known as internet cookies, are tiny data files. Each time you visit a website, that site sends these files to your device. The cookies then store and carry information about you, a unique site visitor.

Why Do Websites Use Cookies?

Cookies allow websites to track the internet sessions of each unique visitor. They save user data and use them for later identification. So, when visitors return, websites can quickly recognize them.

That recognition then allows websites to personalize the browsing experience of returning visitors.

For example, suppose you visit a weather website to check the forecast in your area. After consenting to the site’s cookie policy, you entered your zip code. That site retains some of your info, as long as you don’t clear your browser history, cache, and cookies.

So, the next time you visit that site, you may notice it automatically loads the forecast in your area. That’s because of the cookies you consented to, which likely saved your zip code.

Another type of website data that cookies can save is your login information. As a visitor, that saves you time when you go online and revisit the same site. After all, you don’t have to go through the login process again.

Websites also use cookies to show you targeted ads based on what you do on their site. For this, they may use cookie-based analytics, which you can read more about here, to gain insights into a user. They then use those insights to display ads that might interest you.

Should You Always Allow Cookies?

No, it would be best to decline cookie tracking on unencrypted websites. These sites have an unlocked lock icon to the left of the site address or URL. You don’t want to let them track you because not having encryption means they’re not secure.

You should also decline third-party cookies to keep third parties away from your data. You don’t know who these parties are, so if you consent to them, who knows who can get access to your data? That can then leave you and your personal information vulnerable.

Note that cookie hijacking, a type of cybercrime, can occur due to cookies. Once hijacked, these cookies let criminals spy on you or alter your browser settings. It’s not a new threat, either; it’s been going on since the late 1980s.

Be Careful With Cookies

Remember: Website cookies can make browsing faster and more enjoyable. However, not all cookies are safe, such as if they’re from third parties or are on unencrypted sites. Thus, you should be very careful with these cookies, and if possible, don’t consent to them.

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